Back Pain Conditions »

Arthritis of the Spine

What is it?

Arthritis of the spine can be a very painful and debilitating problem that often affects individuals 40 or older. If left untreated, it can lead to physiological problems such as muscle breakdown or weakness, as well as psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. Sometimes, a person with arthritis of the spine can suddenly suffer excruciating pain that will keep him or her bedridden and unable to perform normal daily activities.

What causes it?

In a word: imbalances. These imbalances can occur in your stress levels, hormone levels, and nutritional levels. Muscle imbalances can adversely affect posture, which can lead to neck and back pain. The causes may vary from one person to the next, but usually degeneration in the bones along with calcium build-up are factors. Sometimes past injuries or surgeries are to blame. Nerves become pinched or compacted, causing severe pain or numbness in the affected areas. Many who suffer from arthritis of the spine will also be affected by herniated discs and bone spurs.

What are the symptoms?

Classic symptoms include pain and numbness in the back, neck, head, and shoulders. Symptoms may be different for different people, and the frequency and intensity will also vary. Some areas may ache from time to time and be all right other times. Bending and other everyday movements may also cause pain. Numbness is the neck area is very common, although other areas, including the arms and legs, may also experience numbness. In some cases, frequent urination or the urgent need to urinate may occur.

How is your condition diagnosed?

You will need to go over your medical history with a doctor and undergo a physical exam. During the physical exam, you likely will be asked to do a few simple exercises so your doctor can see if your range of motion has been affected. These may include bending forward, side-to-side, or backwards. You also may be asked to lie down and raise your legs. Let your doctor if any of these movements causes pain. Because symptoms of arthritis of the spine are similar to other spinal conditions, it is important for your doctor to rule out other - possibly more serious - problems. To do this, you may need to undergo a variety of tests such as blood tests and x-rays.

What are the most common treatments?

A common treatment is to restrict movement of the neck and back with a cervical collar or other bracing. If your condition does not improve after this kind of treatment, surgery may be an option. Commonly used drugs include acetaminophen (Tylenol), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and opiods such as codeine and morphine. Non-drug treatments include hot packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic exercises. Stimulating blood flow using massage or a hot tub may also help. Alternative treatments include yoga and relaxation therapy.

Why do traditional treatments fail?

Most traditional treatments fail to provide long-term relief because they merely address the symptoms and fail to address the cause of the condition. Unless the cause is fully understood, trying to get rid of the problem becomes a guessing game. One thing is certain: No treatment has been found to be the "one thing that works for everyone."

Which treatments work best?

Because Arthritis of the spine is a degenerative process combining various treatment approaches is critical to achieving sustainable results...

Here are some treatments you may want to consider:

Inversion Therapy
Muscle Balance Therapy™
Trigger Point Therapy
Proteolytic Enzyme Therapy
Healthy Heating Pad

 

 

 

 

 

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