osteoarthritis of the spine

Learn About Osteoarthritis Of The Spine

Osteoarthritis is something that you should not take lightly when you have it. Being diagnosed with such a thing has probably brought you here looking for more information. You will find that knowing more about osteoarthritis of the spine, will help you understand it.

Arthritis describes a group of more than 100 diseases that cause tenderness, stiffness of the joints, swelling, abnormalities in the soft tissue and pain. And osteoarthritis of the spine is one of the leading forms of arthritis. Isn't it time you understood?

With more than 50 million Americans suffering from some form of arthritis it has become one of the most common causes of physical disabilities.

Arthros means joint and it is means inflammation. Osteo which means bones and applies mostly to the weight bearing joints like hips, knees, and spine.

Joints are covered by cartilage which is lubricated with a synovial fluid. This makes the joint move easier but when the cartilage becomes worn and the fluid becomes thin so that the joint bones begin to rub.

The spine is a load bearing joint and over the years becomes worn. In fact it is the most common reason for back pain. Spinal arthritis is the result of the breakdown of the cartilage between the joints which become inflamed and cause friction. Back flexibility and mobility is reduced and over time bone spurs might even occur.

Osteoarthritis of the spine occurs in either the lower back or the neck area. The lower area which is called the lumbar supine causes stiffness and pain in the sacroiliac joint and lower spine.

The neck area can cause stiffness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and head, as well as the upper spine.

There are many reasons why you might develop osteoarthritis. Repetitive trauma to the spine can result in arthritis, as can sports injuries, surgery, poor posture, work activities, and a host of other reasons....

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