Osteoarthritis of the Spine

What is Osteoarthritis of the Spine?

Osteoarthritis of the spine, also known as spinal arthritis, is a degenerative joint disease affecting the vertebral joints and discs of the spine. This condition arises when the protective cartilage between the vertebrae wears down over time, leading to pain, inflammation, and reduced spinal flexibility. The loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub against each other, which can result in the formation of bone spurs and lead to further joint damage.

Who is at Risk of Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis of the spine is a common condition that can affect anyone.

Factors Contributing to Osteoarthritis of the Spine Osteoarthritis of the spine commonly affects:

• Older Adults: The risk increases as cartilage naturally deteriorates over time.
• Individuals with a Family History: Genetics can play a role in predisposing individuals to the condition.
• People with Previous Spinal Injuries: Past injuries or repetitive stress on the spine can accelerate the development of osteoarthritis.
• Those with Obesity: Excess weight places additional stress on the spine, potentially leading to cartilage breakdown and osteoarthritis.

Symptoms of Spinal Osteoarthritis

The Varied Symptoms of Spinal Osteoarthritis The symptoms of osteoarthritis of the spine can vary in severity and may include:

• Back Pain is often described as aching or throbbing and may worsen with movement or after sitting for long periods.
• Stiffness: Particularly noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity, leading to a decreased range of motion.
• Numbness or Tingling can occur if bone spurs or degenerated discs compress nearby nerves.
• Reduced Flexibility: Difficulty in performing everyday activities due to limited spinal movement.

What are the Available Treatment Options? 

There are several effective ways to manage osteoarthritis of the spine and improve your quality of life. These include:

• Medications: Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Tailored exercise programs to strengthen the back muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management and ergonomic adjustments to minimize stress on the spine.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief, or hyaluronic acid injections lubricate the joint.

Surgical Treatment for Osteoarthritis of the Spine

In cases where conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgical options may be considered to address severe symptoms and improve function:

• Spinal Fusion: This procedure involves joining two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and alleviate pain caused by movement between the affected joints.
• Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra (the lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, often used when spinal stenosis occurs.
• Discectomy: Removal of a damaged or herniated disc that may be pressing on nerves, helping to alleviate pain and restore mobility.
• Artificial Disc Replacement: Replacing a degenerated disc with an artificial one to maintain spinal movement and function while reducing pain.

Preventing Spinal Osteoarthritis

While it may not be possible to prevent osteoarthritis of the spine entirely, specific measures can help reduce the risk or slow its progression:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess body weight increases stress on the spine, contributing to cartilage breakdown. Adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage weight effectively.
• Engage in Regular Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or cycling strengthen the back muscles and enhance flexibility, supporting spinal health.
• Practice Good Posture. Proper posture and ergonomic furniture can reduce strain on the spine and prevent undue stress.
• Avoid Repetitive Strain: Avoid activities that involve heavy lifting or repetitive movements, which could exacerbate spinal wear and tear.

Find Out More About Managing Spinal Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the spine can be managed using an available treatment method. At Orlando Neurosurgery, our expert team is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective solutions for spinal arthritis. If you are experiencing symptoms or seeking treatment options, we support you. Our team is committed to helping you achieve relief and improve your overall spinal health.