Degenerative Lumbar Cervical Disorder

Overview

Degenerative disorders of the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) spine are common conditions that occur due to age-related changes in the discs, joints, and bones of the spine. These changes can cause chronic pain, nerve compression, reduced mobility, and significant disruption to daily life.

At The New Foscote Hospital in Banbury, Oxfordshire, we provide comprehensive spine assessments, imaging diagnostics, and consultant-led treatment plans to help patients manage symptoms and improve function.

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What Are Degenerative Spinal Disorders?

Degenerative spinal conditions develop when the structural components of the spine—such as discs, facet joints, vertebrae, and ligaments—undergo wear and tear. This process can lead to a range of disorders affecting either the cervical spine (neck) or lumbar spine (lower back), often with overlapping symptoms.

Common degenerative spine conditions include:

• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Facet Joint Osteoarthritis
• Spinal Stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Cervical Spondylosis
• Lumbar Spondylosis
• Disc Prolapse (Herniated Disc)
• Radiculopathy (nerve root irritation or compression)
• Cervical Myelopathy

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Symptoms of Cervical & Lumbar Degeneration

Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the degeneration, but often include:

Cervical Spine (Neck):

• Persistent neck pain or stiffness
• Radiating pain into the shoulders, arms or hands
• Numbness or tingling in the fingers
• Headaches originating from the neck
• Loss of balance or coordination (in advanced cases)

Lumbar Spine (Lower Back):

• Ongoing lower back pain
• Pain radiating into the buttocks or legs (sciatica)
• Numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs
• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
• Stiffness after rest or in the morning

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Causes and Risk Factors

Degenerative spinal disorders are typically age-related but may also result from:

• Repetitive strain or poor posture
• Previous back or neck injuries
• Smoking or poor bone health
• Sedentary lifestyle or obesity
• Family history of spinal disorders
• Occupations involving heavy lifting or prolonged sitting

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Diagnosis at The New Foscote Hospital

Our multidisciplinary team uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify spinal degeneration, including:

• Detailed medical history and physical examination
• MRI or CT scanning to assess disc, joint and nerve involvement
• X-rays to evaluate bone alignment and joint wear
• Neurological assessment to test sensation, strength and reflexes

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Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to your individual condition, symptoms and goals, and may include:

• Consultant-led physiotherapy and posture correction
• Pain management strategies including medication or injections
• Image-guided spinal injections (e.g. nerve root block, facet joint injections)
• Lifestyle and ergonomic advice
• Surgical referral where conservative treatments are ineffective

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, improve mobility, and prevent further deterioration.

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When to Seek Help

If you are experiencing persistent neck or back pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in your limbs, it is essential to seek medical evaluation. Early intervention can prevent long-term complications and improve outcomes.

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Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital?

• Fast access to experienced spinal and orthopaedic consultants
• Advanced imaging including MRI and CT scanning on-site
• Personalised rehabilitation programmes and pain management
• Private care in a comfortable, modern Oxfordshire hospital

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Book a Private Consultation

Regain control over your spinal health.
Call us today on 01295 252 281 or enquire online to see a spine specialist at The New Foscote Hospital.