The degeneration of the spine is known as spondylosis. This form of degeneration can affect the neck, middle or lower back. Normally, this term is used to describe a form of arthritis, which is known arthritis of the spine. It is often referred as a descriptive term as compared to a diagnosis. The guide given below will give you all the details of this form of arthritis and spine disorder.

What Is Arthritis of the Spine?

Arthritis is also known as degenerative joint disease. In this type of spondylosis condition, the protective cartilage that cushions the tops of bones degenerates or wears down due to various reasons. This in turn causes swelling and pain which can result in osteophytes or bone spurs.  In the arthritis of the spine there is a breakdown of the cartilage of the joints and discs in the neck, middle or lower back. At times, it even produces spurs that put pressure on the nerves that exit the spinal column causing weakness and pain in the arms or legs.

What are the risk factors for spinal arthritis?

This type of spondylosis condition can affect selected people. Athletes and people with jobs that require repetitive, and particularly heavy, motion have been found to be at greater risk. The other factors include biological factors like age, gender, weight and genetics. Individuals especially men are prone to arthritis under the age of 45. Post this age, it is mo.re common among women. It can also be caused by certain associative diseases, infections, diabetes, and various other forms of circulating arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

What Are the Symptoms of Spinal Arthritis?

Spinal arthritis can cause stiffness or pain in the neck or back. In addition to this, it may also cause weakness or numbness in the legs or arms. If it is severe enough it can even affect spinal nerves or the spinal cord itself. However, the basic back discomfort is relieved when the person is lying down. In some cases, individuals will experience little interference with the activities of their lives whereas in others it makes them severely disabled. In addition to the physical effects, a person might also experience other problems. This form of arthritis hinders daily activities and job performances making them feel depressed or helpless.

How Is Arthritis of the Spine Treated?

Normally, the treatment aims to reduce the pain and prevent the progression of the disorder. Depending on the cause of the disorder, the appropriate treatment can be undertaken. It can include exercising, weight management, massage, acupuncture, hot and cold compress therapy or even medical supplements. A singular treatment will be prescribed or even a combination of all of them, depending on the extent of the disorder and the individuals bio data.