Spinal Arthritis & Spinal Stenosis

What Is Spinal Arthritis & Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the spine. It most commonly occurs in the facet joints, which connect the vertebrae and allow for flexibility and movement. Over time, the breakdown of cartilage in these joints can lead to pain, stiffness, and structural changes in the spine.

The two primary types of spinal arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative condition where cartilage wears down, leading to bone-on-bone friction.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and joint damage.

Symptoms of Spinal Arthritis & Spinal Stenosis

Common symptoms of spinal arthritis include:

• Persistent pain in the neck or lower back.
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Decreased range of motion in the spine.
• Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
• Numbness or tingling if nerve compression occurs.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, our team can evaluate your condition and develop a tailored treatment plan to address your specific needs.

Spinal Arthritis and Spinal Stenosis Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of spinal arthritis, including:

• Age: The risk of arthritis increases as cartilage naturally wears down with age.
• Repetitive Stress: Activities that place strain on the spine, such as heavy lifting or repetitive motions.
• Injuries: Trauma to the spine can accelerate joint degeneration.
• Obesity: Excess weight can place additional stress on the spine.
• Genetics: A family history of arthritis can increase your risk.

Diagnosing Spinal Arthritis & Spinal Stenosis

Diagnosing spinal arthritis begins with a thorough evaluation, including:

• Medical History and Physical Exam: Assessing your symptoms, mobility, and any contributing factors.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to identify joint damage, cartilage loss, or nerve compression.
• Lab Tests (if needed): To rule out other inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment Options for Spinal Arthritis

At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments for spinal arthritis, focusing on pain relief, improved mobility, and joint preservation.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises to support the spine and improve flexibility.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Reducing pain and swelling.
• Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections to alleviate inflammation and provide temporary relief.
• Activity Modification: Adjusting activities to minimize stress on the spine.
• Lifestyle Changes: Weight management, ergonomic adjustments, and exercise to support spine health.

Surgical Options

For severe cases where conservative treatments are not effective, surgical intervention may be necessary. Options include:

• Spinal Fusion: Stabilizing the affected area by fusing two or more vertebrae.
• Laminectomy or Decompression Surgery: Removing bone or soft tissue to relieve nerve compression.
• Joint Replacement (if applicable): Replacing severely damaged facet joints.

Benefits of Early Intervention

Addressing spinal arthritis early can prevent further joint damage and improve your quality of life. Early treatment can:

• Relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Improve mobility and flexibility.
• Delay or avoid the need for surgery.
• Support long-term spine health and function.

Why Choose Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush?

Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is a leader in spine care, offering the latest advancements in diagnosing and treating spinal arthritis. Our multidisciplinary team includes fellowship-trained spine surgeons, pain management specialists, and physical therapists who work together to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care.

If spinal arthritis is affecting your life, Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our personalized treatment options.