Spinal Arthritis
September 1, 2008 · Print This Article
The signs and symptoms of common arthritis include inflammation, stiffness and pain in the joints. With spinal arthritis, symptoms may include the following:
• Back pain that fluctuates
• Spinal stiffness in the morning or after activity.
• Pain, numbness or tenderness in the neck
• Lower back pain that runs down into the pelvic area, buttocks, thighs
• Pain or tenderness in the hips, knees shoulders or heels
• A crunching sound or feeling of bone rubbing on bone
• Weakness or numbness in arms or legs
• Restricted range of motion, difficulty in bending or walking
• Deformity of the spine
Diagnosis
If you suspect you have spinal arthritis, you should see a doctor. Your doctor will do a detailed examination. You may have to do a few simple exercises so your doctor can see if your range of motion is affected. These exercises will include bending forward, side-to-side or backwards. You may also be asked to lie down and raise your legs. The symptoms of spinal arthritis are similar to other spinal conditions. It is therefore important for your doctor to rule out more serious problems. You have to undergo a variety of tests such as:
• Blood tests
• X-rays
• MRI
• Computerized axial tomography scan
• Bone scan
• Myelogram
After your doctor determines you have arthritis in your spine, there are a number of treatment options. Spinal arthritis is no death sentence. Many who have arthritis continue to lead active and productive lives. An awareness of your condition and managing your symptoms are the keys to living with spinal arthritis.
The chronic pain associated with arthritis can very seriously affect your quality of life. If left untreated, it can also lead to physiological problems such as muscle breakdown or weakness as well as psychological difficulties such as anxiety and depression. There are a wide variety of treatments that can help relieve the pain and discomfort of arthritis
In addition to medications, many people with arthritis can find relief from physical therapy and exercise. Physical therapy is a treatment method that focuses on pain relief, healing, restoring function and movement, improving body mechanics, as well as overall fitness and wellness.
