Orthopaedics, by video or in person
Lumbar Spondylosis (Wear of the Lower Spine)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Lumbar Spondylosis (Wear of the Lower Spine)
- Low back pain and stiffness, often worse in the morning or after sitting long
- Pain that spreads into the buttock or down the leg (sciatica)
- Pain, heaviness, numbness or tingling in the legs on walking or standing, eased by sitting or bending forward
- Having to stop and rest after walking a short distance
- Weakness in a leg or foot in more advanced cases
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
Lumbar spondylosis means wear and tear of the lower spine. With age the discs between the bones dry out and flatten, the small joints at the back of the spine wear, and bony spurs form. Many people show some of this on an X-ray or MRI as they get older, including many with no pain at all, so a report that says 'spondylosis' is not by itself a reason for surgery. When it does cause trouble, it is usually back pain and stiffness, or leg pain when the narrowed space presses on a nerve. Narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis) typically gives pain, heaviness or tingling in the legs on walking or standing that eases when you sit or bend forward. Most people get better, or manage well, with exercise, physiotherapy and the right painkillers. Surgery is for the smaller group whose leg pain or weakness keeps them from walking or working despite good treatment.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Low back pain and stiffness, often worse in the morning or after sitting long
- Pain that spreads into the buttock or down the leg (sciatica)
- Pain, heaviness, numbness or tingling in the legs on walking or standing, eased by sitting or bending forward
- Having to stop and rest after walking a short distance
- Weakness in a leg or foot in more advanced cases
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if back pain has not improved after a few weeks, keeps returning, wakes you at night, or spreads down a leg. See an orthopaedic or spine surgeon if leg pain stops you walking a reasonable distance, or if a leg or foot is getting weaker. Go to a hospital emergency department now for numbness around the bottom or genitals, new trouble passing urine or controlling your bowels, weakness or numbness in both legs, or back pain after a serious fall or accident. Back pain with fever, weight loss or a history of cancer also needs a doctor promptly.
Treatment options
- Staying active and slowly doing more each day, rather than bed rest
- Exercise and stretching, guided by a physiotherapist, which is the core treatment
- Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines for flares, as a doctor or pharmacist advises
- Losing weight where needed, to take load off the spine
- An MRI scan when leg symptoms are severe, weakness appears, or surgery is being considered
- A steroid injection around the nerve for some people with severe leg pain
- Decompression surgery to free a trapped nerve, with spinal fusion added only when the spine is unstable
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Is lumbar spondylosis serious?
Usually not. It is part of how the spine ages, and many people with it on a scan have no pain. It becomes a problem when it pinches a nerve, causing leg pain or weakness, and that is what treatment aims at.
Does lumbar spondylosis need surgery?
Most people never need an operation. Surgery is considered when leg pain or weakness from a narrowed spine keeps you from walking or working despite physiotherapy and medicines, and the MRI matches your symptoms. Surgery is better at easing leg pain than back pain alone.
What is the difference between decompression and fusion?
Decompression removes the bone, disc or thickened ligament pressing on the nerves. Fusion joins two or more bones with screws and rods to stop painful or unstable movement. Fusion is a bigger operation and is added only when the spine is unstable.
How much does lumbar spondylosis surgery cost?
On Mezo, spinal decompression and spinal fusion are quoted in writing after a surgeon has examined you and seen your MRI, because the levels treated and any implants change the price. You see the full price before you agree.
Need Help?
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Orthopaedics in Lagos →Orthopaedics in Abuja →Orthopaedics in Port Harcourt →Orthopaedics in Jos →Orthopaedics in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo). Patient information.
- Back pain. NHS. Patient information.
- Sciatica. NHS. Patient information.
- Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s: assessment and management (NG59). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
Links last checked 3 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.