This drawing illustrates
degenerative and hypertrophic arthritis
between the 3rd, 4th, and 5th lumbar vertebrae,
as well as the lumbosacral joint (L5-S1
disc space). The degeneration of the intervertebral
discs has reduced the height of the discs.
There are bone
spurs or hypertrophic bone adjacent to the
discs and hypertrophic arthritis of the
facet joints. This results in reduced range
of motion of the spine. Also, the hypertrophic
bone and narrowing of the intervertebral
foramen can produce nerve root impingement
thereby causing back and leg pain, as well
as numbness and weakness of leg muscles.
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