Spinal arthritis can occur along the entire length of the spine or in specific areas, such as the lumbar sacral area (lower back, most common) or the cervical (neck) area. In the former case the individual will have more pain with sitting or lifting and in the latter case the individual will suffer more pain with motion related to the neck.
Diagnosis of spinal arthritis will occur in much the same manner as other forms of degenerative osteoarthritis. Because there is no definitive cause identified there is also no one test. Most physicians will do a thorough medical history and physical examination as well as imaging studies to determine the extent of the bony damage in the spine. The doctor may recommend blood tests to rule out other conditions as well. (3)
In some cases that have degenerated to the point that the individual cannot function each day, the surgeon may consider several different procedures, most of which will remove the bone spurs that initiate the symptoms. A foraminotomy can decompress the intervertebral foramen; a percutaneous discectomy will remove a herniated disc; and a laminotomy will relieve pressure in the spinal canal and the exiting nerves.
In the early stages of the condition over-the-counter medications may relieve the inflammation and pain but as the condition continues to progress patients may be forced to consider other options. One new option is a laser spine surgery designed to reduce pain and inflammation while reducing the risk of decreased range of motion, reducing the risk of anesthesia and immediate results that are faster and less painful to recover from.
Spinal arthritis isn’t a death sentence. In fact, many who suffer will continue to enjoy active and productive lives by managing their symptoms and condition proactively.
References:
(1) Spine Universe: Arthritis and your Spine
http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/spondylosis/arthritis-your-spine-introduction
(2) American Academy of Orthpedic Surgeons: Cervical Spondylosis
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00369
(3) American Association of Neurological Surgeons: Cervical Spine
https://www.aans.org/Patient%20Information/Conditions%20and%20Treatments/Cervical%20Spine.aspx
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