Comprehensive Guide to Arthritis of the Spine: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Most people are familiar with arthritis. This debilitating condition can affect the spine as well as other parts of the body. In the United States, millions of people suffer from the symptoms of spinal arthritis. These symptoms can include:

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Tightness
• Pain

Many of Deuk Spine Institute’s Florida patients suffering from arthritis of the spine are over the age of 55. Spinal arthritis can occur naturally with aging, but there are treatments to relieve pain and increase mobility.

• Osteoarthritis. This is the most common type. It occurs when cartilage wears out, causing moving joints to rub against each other. This leads to discomfort and pain.
• Spinal Arthritis. This type affects the joints of the spine. When not treated, this can lead to loss of motion and discomfort during normal activities like standing, sitting and walking.

An MRI is useful for identifying arthritis of the spine and related issues like bone spurs and issues with the facet joints of the spine.

There’s no cure for arthritis, but there are many treatments and therapists that can relieve pain and increase mobility. In early states, exercise and rest can be highly effective along with medication. When patients have are in advanced stages, interventional pain management treatments like spine injections and physical therapy help relief pain. For severe arthritis of the spine, patients may be recommended for surgical techniques that address the symptoms of spinal arthritis.