Spondylosis is a general term that refers to the natural degeneration of the spine that occurs with age. It is a common condition that affects the vertebrae (bones of the spine), intervertebral discs (the cushions between the vertebrae), and the ligaments and muscles of the spine.
Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one vertebra slips forward or backwards relative to the vertebra below. More specifically, retrolisthesis is when the vertebra slips posteriorly or backwards, and anterolisthesis is when the vertebra slips anteriorly or forward.
A discectomy is a surgical procedure in which a portion of a damaged or herniated intervertebral disc is removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. It is typically performed to alleviate pain, numbness, or weakness caused by a compressed nerve. Recovery time and post-operative care will depend on the type of surgery and individual case.
