Of all the many different types of arthritis, some cause problems in spine joints, while others cause pain in other parts of the body such as shoulders, hips and knees. Usually it is the joints of the lower back that are affected, and in fact arthritis in its various forms is one of the most common causes of lower back pain.

Many people who have arthritis in spine joints already have another spinal disease or condition such as degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. Because of the fact that these pre-existing conditions are already burdening the spinal joints, arthritis is much more easily developed.

The majority of people suffering from arthritis usually suffer from Osteoarthritis, and the condition is fairly common in old age. On average 1 in 10 people over 65 become disabled from arthritis, though many find relief in surgery if the areas affected isolate to knees and hips.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis in the spine include stiffness and pain in the neck and/or lower back. A problem in the neck may be accompanied by weakness or numbness in the arms.

Another common type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, which affects the joints and causes a great deal of pain. Nobody really knows what causes rheumatoid arthritis, but it appears that genetics might be playing a part. Women are three times more likely to be affected than men. Differently than other types of arthritis, this type is more likely to affect the upper part of the spine, feet and hands.

A type of arthritis that affects the spine is known as Ankylosing Spondylitis. While it is still an auto-immune disease, it affects the spine rather than joints. As opposed to rheumathoid arthritis, it affects men more than women, and it is usually developed before 40 years of age. There is back pain and stiffness, sometimes affecting the whole spine, along with general fatigue. Some even experience inflammation of the eyes. Relief from pain can be experienced with movement, and pain is at its worst when resting. Treatment is based on physical therapy, careful exercise and pain relief.

If you develop arthritis in the spinal area, you should first analyze your sleeping conditions. Sometimes, you might be able to find relief by sleeping on a firmer mattress or by switching your pillow. Heat treatment may also be recommended.

You might want to ask your doctor for any possible suggestions on exercises that could benefit you by strengthening your back and making you more flexible. Your doctor may even prescribe medication for pain relief that's suited to the condition. So be sure to keep in contact with your doctor regarding your arthritis in spine and let him or her know when you notice any changes.

You might have to resort to surgery in some cases. This is something that is usually decided depending on the case. Spinal surgery is not something your doctor will fling at you without careful consideration, but it might be an option especially if other conditions that have developed are known to positively respond to surgery.