I read your question carefully and I understand your concern. These widespread changes are degenerative chronic changes which have happened over many years. So reversing them is unfortunately not possible. What is aimed is pain control and physical therapy to stop progression. Pain control is achieved through over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen as a first step. If that doesn t work then medication for chronic pain such as anticonvulsants (Gabapentin, Pregabalin) or antidepressants (Amitriptylin, Duloxetine) are used. Narcotics are used only as a very last resort. Local steroid injections or surgery may be done only when there is one particular site which is the source of the symptoms, like a bulging disc or bony spur compressing a nerve root or the cord. I hope to have been of help.