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Arthritis of the spine - symptoms, description and treatment

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Obrázek : Artritidy páteře
Arthritis of the spine

Does your spine hurt when you wake up? Do you get relief during the day but the pain returns in the evening? These are common complaints in arthritis of the spine. It is an inflammatory disease of the joints in the spine. The pain is compounded by stiffness in the back and, in some patients, impaired sensitivity in the limbs.

Find out what treatment options exist for arthritis of the spine. How to suppress unpleasant symptoms such as pain, swelling and inflammation in this disease? Read more here.

Symptoms of arthritis of the spine

The main symptoms of arthritis of the spine are:

  • Back pain and stiffness – especially in the lower back and cervical spine,
  • limited spinal mobility – the patient cannot straighten or turn completely,
  • tenderness and swelling at the site of the inflamed joint,
  • general fatigue and weakness,
  • impaired sensitivity in the limbs,
  • headache. [1]

Patients with arthritis of the spine may not always have the same symptoms. The type and intensity of the problems depend on the type of arthritis and your overall health.

Notice

Only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis. Do not use this or any other article on the internet to make a diagnosis. Don’t put off seeing a doctor and address your condition early.

Description and causes of arthritis of the spine

Revmatoidní zánět způsobuje bolest zad
Rheumatoid inflammation causes back pain

What is arthritis of the spine?

Arthritis of the spine is inflammatory joint disease in the spine or at the junction of the spine and pelvis. It may be related to spinal wear and tear, autoimmune diseases or infectious diseases. Arthritis of the back can occur in any part of the spine, but arthritis of the cervical and lumbar spine is most common. In some cases, the exact cause of arthritis remains unclear. [2]

Types of arthritis of the spine

Postižení páteře při ankylozující spondylitidě
Spinal involvement in ankylosing spondylitis. Figure 1 shows a healthy spine. Figures 2 and 3 show the disability in ankylosing spondylitis.

Arthritis of the spine can take many different forms. Doctors know more than 100 different types of arthritis. [3] The most common types include arthritis that develops with arthrosis of the spine, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis (Bechterew’s disease), psoriatic arthritis or reactive arthritis. [4]

Characteristics of different types of arthritis of the spine

  • Spinal arthrosis is a non-inflammatory degenerative disease of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, which most often affects people in older age. Wear and tear on the articular cartilage causes pain and can lead to the development of inflammation or swelling.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system acts improperly against itself, resulting in inflammation in the joints. Most often the limbs are affected, but the spine is no exception.
  • Ankylosing spondylitis – this disease is better known as Bechterew’s disease. Inflammation that affects individual joints in the spine, the spine and pelvis or the ligaments between vertebrae causes pain in the lower back. Morning stiffness and fatigue may be added.
  • Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease that accompanies psoriasis (psoriasis). Patients are usually first diagnosed with psoriasis and then present with joint pain caused by psoriatic arthritis.
  • Reactive arthritis is a disease in which joint inflammation occurs in response to inflammation in another part of the body. Reactive arthritis can, for example, result from inflammation in the digestive tract or urinary tract. [5]

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of arthritis of the spine is made in three basic steps.

  • The doctor first asks detailed questions about the nature of the problem, the type and intensity of the back pain and other associated problems. It also needs to know if you are being treated for any chronic conditions and what medications you are taking.
  • The next step is a physical examination focused on the state of the musculoskeletal system and reflexes. The doctor assesses joint mobility, muscle strength, gait and range of motion when bending or turning the body.
  • The third phase is the use of imaging methods (X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography). The images will allow to assess the extent of the damage to the spine and the condition of the surrounding tissues or intervertebral discs.

Some patients also need laboratory blood tests to rule out or confirm other diseases with similar symptoms. [6]

Did you know ?

  • The stiffness and back pain in arthritis of the spine is usually worst in the morning in the first half hour after waking up.
  • Degenerative changes in the spine affect most people over the age of 60. However, 85% of them report no pain or other problems. [7]

Complications of non-treatment

If arthritis of the spine is not treated early and correctly, various complications can develop.

  • Stiffness and deformity of the spine: Chronic inflammation can cause the spine to stiffen and lose its flexibility.
  • Chronic pain: untreated arthritis often leads to chronic pain.
  • Limited mobility: inflammation and stiffness of the joints can severely limit the patient’s range of motion.
  • Complications in other joints: in addition to the spine, arthritis can affect other joints.

Stiffening of the spine

Chronic pain

Restricted mobility

Inflammation of other joints

Notice

We recommend not delaying treatment for arthritis of the spine

Do not delay treatment for arthritis of the spine, and see a specialist if you have any health problems or doubts about your health. This will prevent unnecessary health complications.

Treatment of arthritis of the spine

Zánět kloubů – léčba: injekční aplikace kortikosteroidů
Arthritis - treatment: injection of corticosteroids

Most patients are treated conservatively to relieve spinal pain and improve mobility. Surgical treatment (spinal surgery) always poses a certain risk, so doctors usually combine different conservative therapy procedures.

These are:

  • physiotherapy (improves muscle strength, posture and range of motion),
  • use of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids in the form of tablets or injections),
  • other medications to relieve specific symptoms,
  • regular exercise (improves physical fitness and can relieve pain),
  • weight adjustment (overweight and obesity put excessive strain on the joints and spine),
  • lifestyle changes (doctors recommend quitting smoking and adjusting your diet).

The exact form of treatment depends on the type and severity of arthritis, the intensity of the pain and the age of the patient. Doctors also take into account your overall health and other comorbidities. The joint damage in arthritis is irreversible, so treatment usually focuses on relieving pain and preventing further damage to the spine. [ 8],[9]

Notice

Attention

Treatment for arthritis of the spine can only be determined by your doctor after considering your overall health. Therefore, do not use this article as a guide to treatment, which can only be determined by a doctor.

How to support the treatment of arthritis

Treatment of arthritis of the spine can be supplemented with other treatments such as hot and cold compresses or various relaxation techniques.

  • Warm compresses (called dry heat) help relieve pain caused by overly tight muscles.
  • Another option is a hot bath (called wet heat), which promotes blood circulation and relieves the perception of pain.
  • Cold compresses reduce swelling and, despite initial discomfort, can reduce rheumatic joint pain.
  • Hydrotherapy supplemented by other treatments and general relaxation in wellness centres and spas contributes to better management of arthritis. [10]

Prevention of arthritis of the spine

Arthritis of the spine cannot be completely cured, as arthritic changes in the spine are irreversible. Prevention plays an even more important role. Some of the risk factors for developing arthritis cannot be influenced (age, family stress), but patients can do a lot for their spinal health through a good lifestyle.

  • Be active. Passivity increases the likelihood that you will experience pain in your spine and other parts of your body. Regular walking or simple exercise is better than demanding, poorly managed sports.
  • Maintain the correct weight. Obesity puts a strain on the entire musculoskeletal system.
  • Don’t smoke. Tobacco products accelerate the loss of articular cartilage and worsen back pain. [11]

What else protects the spine

  • Correct posture when standing, walking and sitting.
  • Comfortable driving position with emphasis on back support.
  • Firm mattress for sleeping.
  • A well-organised workplace where tools are conveniently within reach.
  • Keep your head and neck upright when reading – do not lean your head over a book or towards the phone. [12]
Notice

Important cautions when dealing with arthritis of the spine

  • Arthritis of the spine is an inflammatory disease characterised by back pain and stiffness.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs, physiotherapy and regimen measures are used in the treatment.
  • The aim of the therapy is to relieve pain, facilitate daily activities and prevent further damage to the spine.

Summary and recommendations in the management of arthritis of the spine

1.

See a doctor

Treatment for arthritis of the spine is always determined by your doctor based on a general examination, an assessment of your condition and an accurate diagnosis.

2.

Causal treatment of arthritis of the spine and joints

After a general examination, your doctor will recommend treatment for the cause of arthritis of the spine. They will also advise you on possible lifestyle adjustments and the next course of action.

3.

Relieving pain, swelling and inflammation

Symptomatic treatment focuses on the manifestations or signs (symptoms) of the disease. Such treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and support comprehensive treatment during the course of the disease.

Sources, references and literature

[1] Spinal Arthritis (Arthritis in the Back or Neck). Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2023. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/spinal-arthritis

[2] Spinal Arthritis (Arthritis in the Back or Neck). Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2023. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/spinal-arthritis

[3] Spinal Arthritis (Arthritis in the Back or Neck). Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2023. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/spinal-arthritis

[4] Braun A. Symptoms of Spinal Arthritis. Verywell Health, 7. February 2021. Available at: https://www.verywellhealth.com/symptoms-of-spinal-arthritis-5096385

[5] Braun A. Symptoms of Spinal Arthritis. Verywell Health, 7. February 2021. Available at: https://www.verywellhealth.com/symptoms-of-spinal-arthritis-5096385

[6] Lieberman D. Symptoms of Arthritis of the Spine. Veritas Health, 26. October 2016. Available at: https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/arthritis/symptoms-arthritis-spine

[7] Lieberman D. Symptoms of Arthritis of the Spine. Veritas Health, 26. October 2016. Available at: https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/arthritis/symptoms-arthritis-spine

[8] Lea D. Pain in the back: preventing and treating spinal arthritis. Mayo Clinic, 14. March 2023.

Available at: https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/pain-in-the-back-preventing-and-treating-spinal-arthritis/

[9] Spinal Arthritis (Arthritis in the Back or Neck). Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2023. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/spinal-arthritis

[10] Spinal Arthritis (Arthritis in the Back or Neck). Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2023. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/spinal-arthritis

[11] Lea D. Pain in the back: preventing and treating spinal arthritis. Mayo Clinic, 14. March 2023.

[12] How to Save Your Back. UCLA Ergonomics. Available at: https://ergonomics.ucla.edu/backsafety/how-to-save-your-back

How to control pain, swelling, inflammation and promote healing? Try the application of 3D magnetotherapy