What is endplate sclerosis?

Endplate sclerosis is a medical condition that involves the gradual hardening or thickening of the bony endplates in the spinal column. The endplates are thin layers of bone that cover the upper and lower surfaces of the vertebral bodies, which are the cylindrical structures that make up the backbone. In endplate sclerosis, the endplates become more dense and brittle over time, which can reduce their shock-absorbing ability and increase the risk of fractures.

This condition is commonly associated with degenerative disc disease, which is a gradual breakdown of the spinal discs that occurs with age, injury, or disease. Endplate sclerosis can also occur as a result of osteoporosis, which is a condition that causes the bones in the body to become weak and brittle.

Symptoms of endplate sclerosis may include back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, as well as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs if the condition compresses nerves in the spine. Treatment typically involves conservative measures such as physical therapy, pain medications, and lifestyle modifications. In severe cases, surgery may be required to address compression of the nerves or stabilize the spine.