Arthritis of the spine - symptoms, description and treatment

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.

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]

• 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]

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.

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]

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]

• 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]