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Osteoarthritis of the Spine (Spondylosis) Treatment in Sturgis

illustration of a spine overlaid on a womans backOsteoarthritis of the spine — also known as spondylosis — is one of the most common age-related changes affecting the musculoskeletal system. It refers to the gradual degeneration of spinal joints, discs, and vertebrae, which can lead to bone spurs, bulging or herniated discs, and a range of painful symptoms. Over 80% of adults over the age of 40 show evidence of spinal arthritis on X-ray, though many do not yet experience symptoms. At Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Dr. Jerrid Goebel provides personalized chiropractic care to help patients manage spondylosis, reduce pain, and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle for as long as possible.

Who Is at Risk and When Does It Develop?

While osteoarthritis of the spine is closely associated with aging, it can begin developing as early as the teenage years. The onset and severity of symptoms are influenced by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Risk factors for developing spinal osteoarthritis include prior spinal injuries, occupations that require repetitive neck or overhead movements, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and genetic predisposition. Spondylosis most commonly affects the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine and can impact a single vertebra or multiple levels simultaneously.

Symptoms of Spinal Osteoarthritis

A significant portion of people with spinal osteoarthritis — between 27 and 37% — experience no symptoms at all. For those who do, common symptoms include neck, shoulder, or back pain, headaches, muscle spasms, and tenderness along the spine. As the condition progresses, tingling, numbness, weakness in the limbs, and difficulty walking may develop, typically as a result of a pinched nerve, bone spurs on the facet joints, or disc herniation. In more advanced cases, related conditions such as radiculopathy, sciatica, or myelopathy (compression of the spinal cord itself) may also develop, increasing the complexity and urgency of care.

Diagnosing and Treating Spinal Osteoarthritis

At Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Dr. Goebel can assess whether spinal osteoarthritis is contributing to your pain through a thorough physical examination and, when appropriate, imaging studies. Once diagnosed, a personalized chiropractic care plan is developed to address your specific level of degeneration and symptom profile. Treatment for spondylosis at our Sturgis office may include:

  • Spinal adjustments: Regular chiropractic manipulation to correct misalignments, reduce nerve irritation, and relieve pain from bulging discs, bone spurs, and spinal restrictions
  • Low-level laser therapy: Non-invasive treatment to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing at the cellular level
  • Ultrasound therapy: Sound wave technology to improve circulation, reduce swelling, and ease muscle tension around arthritic joints
  • Ice and heat therapy: Applied strategically to manage inflammation and promote comfort during flare-ups
  • Massage therapy: Hands-on soft tissue work to reduce muscle spasms, trigger points, and tension that often accompany spinal arthritis
  • Lifestyle modifications: Guidance on activity, posture, and habits that support long-term spinal health and slow the progression of degeneration

Why Chiropractic Care Matters for Spondylosis

While spinal osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, consistent chiropractic maintenance care can meaningfully slow its progression and reduce its impact on daily life. Research supports the effectiveness of chiropractic care in managing arthritis-related symptoms, and many patients experience significant improvements in pain, mobility, and overall function. Dr. Goebel is committed to helping patients at Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture keep their spines healthier longer and live more comfortably — no matter where they are in the progression of spondylosis.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you are experiencing back or neck pain, stiffness, or other symptoms of spinal arthritis, contact Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Sturgis today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Goebel and take a proactive step toward better spinal health.
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Osteoarthritis of the Spine Treatment Sturgis SD | (605) 561-0161