What is Spine Arthritis?

The symptoms associated with arthritis of the spine can vary with activity levels and weather influences. Stiffness and pain in the neck and lower back pain that runs into the pelvis area and buttocks (sciatica) may be a major component in spine arthritis. It may become very painful to lift any weight or bend making it sometimes difficult to perform basic daily activities. There is often a feeling of weakness or numbness in the arms or legs and it can be accompanied by grinding, crunching or catching because the joint has lost its cartilage. Sleeping or lying can get painful as the disease progresses and the can cause spinal deformity.

Arthritis of the spine is diagnosed by taking into account the patients medical history, physical examination reports as well as the symptoms reported by the patient. The doctor will look for extent of range of motion by asking you to perform a few simple exercises. 

Tests such as Blood tests, X-rays determine the presence or progression of the disease. 

Other tests include MRI, CAT scan, Myelogram and a bone scan for discovering fractures and degenerative bone problems.

Each patient is treated differently for arthritis depending on their individual condition. In the early stages lifestyle modifications or medicines are used for treatment and surgery is needed only if these measures are ineffective. 

Some of the Ways of Treating Spine Arthritis are
• Modifying or limiting activities provoking pain and learning new methods of exercising or bending and lifting.
• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles, prevent further atrophy and maintain function, stability and flexibility of the spine.
• A corset or a brace could be used to provide support, this is normally used for older patients with degenerative problems in multiple places.
• Using joint strengthening dietary supplements like glucosamine.
• Rest combined with NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or asprin to treat pain and inflammation.
• More powerful anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids can also be injected into the joints to help control pain.
• Hot or cold packs on the affected area, ultrasound and electric stimulation are some of the other treatments which are used.

In more severe cases surgical methods are advised to improve pain and increase motion. Read Previous