What are the causes of lumbar vertebral bone spurs?

Lumbar osteophytosis, also known as lumbar spondylosis, is a common chronic joint disease, particularly prevalent among middle-aged and elderly individuals. Its occurrence can primarily be attributed to the following factors:

1. Age factor: With aging, the water content of the lumbar intervertebral discs gradually decreases and their elasticity diminishes, leading to narrowing of the intervertebral spaces. This results in increased pressure on the edges of the vertebral bodies, thereby stimulating osteoblast activity beneath the periosteum and forming bone spurs or osteophytes, i.e., osteophytosis. Studies indicate that lumbar osteophyte formation and intervertebral space narrowing are commonly observed on imaging studies in normal individuals over the age of 60.

2. Strain: Continuous repetitive strain and excessive physical activity can accelerate lumbar degeneration, leading to the formation and progressive enlargement of intervertebral disc protrusions and osteophytes.

3. History of trauma: Injuries such as fractures or sprains to the lower back can cause imbalanced joint loading, subsequently triggering lumbar osteophytosis.

4. Poor posture: Maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods, especially poor postures such as bending and slouching, can exert continuous pressure on the lumbar spine, increasing the risk of lumbar osteophytosis.

Lumbar osteophytosis is closely associated with multiple factors including age, strain, history of trauma, and poor posture. It manifests as symptoms such as low back pain and radiating leg pain, and in severe cases, it can affect daily activities and work performance.