There are many types of arthritis and most of them can cause arthritis in spine joints just as they can affect other joints of the body such as the hips, knees and shoulders. The lower back is one of the body parts most often affected by arthritis in all its forms.
Among the people that develops arthritis in spine joints, many of them have already suffered from other spinal conditions such as degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. These conditions place an extra burden on the joints of the spine which can lead to damage and the pain of arthritis.
Among the people that develop arthritis in older age, most of them suffer from Osteoarthritis. About 1 in 10 people over 65 will be disabled due to osteoarthritis, although most of these cases refer to knees and hips which can often be restored to mobility through surgery.
Stiffness and pain in the neck and in the lower back are often symptoms of osteoarthritis. Arthritis in the spine lower down can produce the same weakness or numbness in the legs.Those symptoms can also come along with weakness or numbness in either the legs or neck.
Rheumatoid arthritis is another arthritic condition in which the joints are inflamed and cause a lot of pain. As with other auto immune diseases, the cause is not known but there may be a genetic factor. Women run a risk of developing it about three times higher than men. Unlike other types of arthritis that affect joints, this type mostly affects the upper part of the spine, feet and hands.
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that involves the spine. Again this is an auto immune disease but it affects the spine more than other joints. This condition appears to affect men more than women, and many develop it before they turn 40. It causes pain and stiffness in the whole spine, and many people suffering from the condition complain of general fatigue. Some even experience inflammation of the eyes. The pain may be relieved by movement, worse when resting. Physical therapy, monitored exercise and medication for pain are the usual course of treatment.
If you suffer from arthritis in spine areas the first thing to do is to consider your sleeping arrangements. Sometimes, you might be able to find relief by sleeping on a firmer mattress or by switching your pillow. Heat may also bring great relief.
Your doctor may also suggest exercises that you can do to strengthen the spine or maintain as much freedom of movement as possible. He or she can prescribe pain medication that is suitable for you. So, make sure you let your doctor know of your condition, and you also keep him informed if you notice any changes.
In some cases, surgery may be recommended. This kind of decision is uniquely decided after considering all factors. Spinal surgery is usually not the first option, but it is surely going to be considered, especially if other condition you might have developed can easily be corrected by surgery.
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