What Is Degenerative Change of the Lumbar Spine?
Disease description:
Recently, I’ve been feeling discomfort in my lower back. After getting examined, the doctor diagnosed me with degenerative changes of the lumbar spine—what exactly is this condition?
Doctor's answer (2)
Dr. Wang Zhuo
Hello, the lumbar spine typically reaches its peak development around ages 18–20 and gradually degenerates with advancing age. This degenerative process is termed “degenerative disease.” In other words, the lumbar spine and major lower-limb joints (e.g., knee and hip joints) undergo wear-and-tear over time, and lumbar degeneration falls under the category of degenerative diseases. Lumbar degenerative diseases—including lumbar disc herniation, lumbar spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis—manifest in various ways, all of which are age-related. These conditions are primarily distinguished from traumatic injuries or secondary causes such as tumors and infections. I hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health!
