How Does Spinal Arthritis Develop?

Spinal arthritis affects the facet joints of the spine, which are the hinge-like structures that allow adjacent vertebrae to move in unison. When most people talk about spinal arthritis, they're referring to spinal osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative condition that can develop due to age, obesity, overuse of a joint, disease, and/or a genetic predisposition. The condition occurs when the cartilage that surrounds the weight-bearing facet joints begins to deteriorate. This can cause the vertebrae to grind against each other as the joints move, which may lead to pain, stiffness, weakness, inflammation, joint instability, joint lockage, and the development of bone spurs.

How Is Degenerative Spinal Arthritis Different from Rheumatoid Arthritis?

In addition to osteoarthritis, there are more than 100 other types of arthritis. Another fairly common type of arthritis that can affect joints throughout the body, including the spinal facet joints, is rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own tissues. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune system attacks the lubricating synovial lining and soft cartilage that coats most joints. The joints become painfully inflamed because synovial fluid (the substance that lubricates the joints) is produced in excess, which can erode surrounding bones. Furthermore, joint cartilage is often destroyed, eliminating the soft coating that allows for smooth joint movement. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include swelling, tenderness, warm pain, deformity, and joint stiffness. Because both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis cause joint discomfort, the two conditions are often confused. This is why it is so important to get a professional diagnosis so that your treatment regimen can address the correct condition.

Conservative Treatments for Degenerative Spinal Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is generally more common than rheumatoid arthritis. If you think you may be exhibiting symptoms of this condition, make an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor will likely ask you to describe your symptoms in detail. He or she may also conduct a physical exam and order an MRI or CT scan. In the event that you are suffering from spinal arthritis, a conservative treatment regimen will likely be prescribed that may include pain medication, hot/cold compresses, physical therapy, gentle stretching, and behavior modification. The majority of patients who suffer from this condition are usually able to manage their symptoms without surgical intervention.