In a patient with lumbar degenerative joint disease, how should you align them in the sagittal plane with a prescribed LSO?

In addressing lumbar degenerative joint disease, the alignment in the sagittal plane with a prescribed lumbar support orthosis (LSO) is crucial for both pain management and functional stability. Decreasing lumbar lordosis is the correct approach for this scenario. When the lumbar lordosis is reduced, it often alleviates stress on the intervertebral discs and the facet joints, which are typically compromised in degenerative joint disease.

Reducing lumbar lordosis helps to flatten the curve, which can assist in diminishing pain and discomfort. It minimizes the forward bending moment on the spinal structures, allowing for a more stable position that may enhance the patient's overall comfort and functional capability.

Other options, such as increasing lumbar lordosis, may exacerbate symptoms by placing additional loads on already stressed structures. Maintaining the current lordotic curve could also perpetuate discomfort as it does not account for the need to relieve pressure on compromised joints. Lastly, aligning in a neutral spine position is somewhat beneficial, but it doesn't specifically target the reduction of lordosis as the most beneficial strategy for patients with degenerative changes in the lumbar spine. Adjusting lordosis downwards can provide a strategic advantage in managing their condition effectively.