Treatment for Spinal Arthritis in Freehold & Monroe Township, NJ
Reviewed by AOSMI’s Fellowship Trained, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, Dr. Justin Elkrief.
WHAT CAUSES SPINAL ARTHRITIS?
Spinal arthritis is a result of degenerative changes in the spine. The cartilage that lines the spinal joints and the discs in the neck and back can break down over time, causing symptoms such as stiffness and pain in the neck or back, and weakness and numbness in the arms or legs. In general, osteoarthritis happens to people as they get older, but younger people can develop it as well after sustaining an injury or trauma to a joint, or if they have a genetic defect that involves cartilage.
SPINAL ARTHRITIS TREATMENT AT AOSMI
At Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, we can help treat your spinal arthritis to relieve pain and related unpleasant symptoms. We will begin by confirming your diagnosis using imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI, and/or blood tests to exclude other diseases. One of our orthopedic spine doctors will also perform a physical exam to see if you have pain, tenderness, or loss of motion in your neck or back.
Once a diagnosis of spinal arthritis is confirmed, our board-certified spine doctors will begin treating you with the goal of relieving your spinal arthritis pain and increasing your mobility. Our team may suggest several non-surgical treatment methods, including:
- Strengthening, aerobic, or range-of-motion exercises
- Strengthening, aerobic, or range-of-motion exercises: These exercises can help improve muscle strength, flexibility, and joint function, which in turn may reduce pain and enhance your ability to perform daily activities with greater ease.
- Massage
- Massage: Massage therapy can promote relaxation, improve blood circulation, and alleviate muscle tension around affected joints, providing temporary relief from spinal arthritis discomfort.
- Acupuncture
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points to stimulate energy flow and encourage the body’s natural healing processes. It may help reduce pain and promote overall well-being for individuals with spinal arthritis.
- Hot or cold compresses
- Hot or cold compresses: Applying hot or cold compresses to the affected areas can help reduce inflammation, soothe sore muscles, and temporarily alleviate spinal arthritis pain
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs are medications that help manage pain and inflammation associated with spinal arthritis. They can provide symptomatic relief and improve your comfort level.
- Epidural steroid injections
- Epidural steroid injections: These injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area of the spine, reducing inflammation and providing targeted pain relief. Epidural steroid injections may help alleviate severe pain caused by spinal arthritis and improve your quality of life.
Most cases of spinal arthritis can be treated without surgery, but if you elect surgical treatment, we have a team of highly experienced spine surgeons who specialize in treating spine conditions, so you can have peace of mind that you’re in good hands.
To learn more about spinal arthritis treatment and surgery options, contact Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute today. We would be happy to schedule an appointment for you at one if our facilities in Freehold or Monroe Township, NJ.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Arthritis Treatment and Symptoms
What causes spinal arthritis?
What is the best medication for spinal arthritis?
What does spinal arthritis feel like?
Can rheumatoid arthritis cause spinal stenosis?
Can spinal arthritis cause chest pain?
Does arthritis of the spine require surgery?
What is the average age that people get spinal arthritis?
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Arthritis Treatment and Symptoms
What causes spinal arthritis?
Spinal arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis of the spine, is primarily caused by the natural degeneration of the spinal joints and discs over time. This degeneration leads to the breakdown of cartilage, which normally cushions the joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Factors such as aging, genetics, wear and tear, and past injuries contribute to the development of spinal arthritis.
What is the best medication for spinal arthritis?
The choice of medication for spinal arthritis depends on the individual’s symptoms and medical history. Commonly used medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation, acetaminophen for pain relief, and in some cases, prescription medications like corticosteroids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to address underlying inflammation. The best medication will be determined by a healthcare professional based on your specific condition.
What does spinal arthritis feel like?
Spinal arthritis can cause various symptoms, including:
- Chronic pain in the back or neck
- Stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity
- Reduced range of motion in the spine
- Radiating pain that may travel down the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness or numbness in the extremities
- Aching or discomfort during movement or weight-bearing activities
Can rheumatoid arthritis cause spinal stenosis?
Yes, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can lead to spinal stenosis in some cases. RA is an autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation, joint damage, and changes in the spine’s structure. Inflammation of the spinal joints and soft tissues can contribute to the narrowing of the spinal canal, leading to spinal stenosis. Regular monitoring and appropriate management of RA can help mitigate the risk of spinal stenosis.
Can spinal arthritis cause chest pain?
Spinal arthritis typically affects the joints and structures of the spine, which are not directly connected to the chest cavity. However, in some cases, pain from spinal arthritis in the upper back or neck can radiate to the chest area, mimicking chest pain. If you experience chest pain, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention to rule out any serious cardiac or respiratory issues.
Does arthritis of the spine require surgery?
Arthritis of the spine usually does not require surgery as a first-line treatment. Nonsurgical approaches, such as lifestyle modifications, medications, physical therapy, and injections, are often effective in managing symptoms. Surgery may be considered if conservative measures fail to provide relief, and the individual experiences severe pain, nerve compression, or significant functional limitations.
What is the average age that people get spinal arthritis?
Spinal arthritis is more common as people age. It typically starts to become more prevalent after the age of 40, and its incidence increases with each subsequent decade. However, it’s important to note that age is just one factor, and genetics, lifestyle, and past injuries also play a role in the development of spinal arthritis.
