Rheumatoid arthritis of the spine can cause neck pain and back pain. Joint deterioration from arthritis can lead to compression of the spinal cord and/or the spinal nerve roots, causing additional symptoms.
Arthritis
"Arthritis" describes many different diseases that cause tenderness, pain, swelling, and joint stiffness. With osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, the cartilage around the joint wears out, causing the bones in the joint to rub together, creating inflammation and pain. Most forms of arthritis can occur in any joint, including spine joints. Osteoarthritis of the spine can lead to lost flexibility, bone spurs (osteophytes), irritated nerves, spinal stenosis, and sciatica. The terms spondylosis or degenerative joint disease are used interchangeably with osteoarthritis.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis Overview Infographic
Patients should always consult a health professional before changing their diet or taking any over-the-counter drugs or nutritional supplements (also known as dietary supplements or natural supplements).
For facet joint pain and dysfunction that does not respond to nonsurgical care, or for severe conditions, surgical intervention may be recommended.
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Surgery for Osteoarthritis
Surgery for osteoarthritis may be needed in severe cases, and may include spinal fusion, decompression and/or laminectomy.
Facet joint disorders may also cause overlapping symptoms with other lower back conditions, making the diagnostic process more challenging.
Osteoarthritis is characterized primarily by stiffness and pain in the joints, although not everyone with osteoarthritis actually experiences pain and disability. The stiffness and pain tend to be worse in the morning.
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Treatment Options for Bone Spurs
Learn about treatment options for bone spurs (osteophytes) and back pain, including non-surgical treatments and spine surgery.
A combination of one or more nonsurgical treatments is usually tried to control the symptoms of facet joint disorders.
