Arthritic Back Pain

Arthritis is an inflammation of joints in the body. The back is one of many parts of the body that can develop arthritis. While arthritis is inevitable for most people, certain preventive measures can delay the incidence of arthritis. Also, there are several pain relief options that can be used to reduce or eliminate spinal back pain.

Causes

• Arthritis occurs inevitably as bones and cartilage deteriorate. While inevitable, some factors make arthritis in the back occur more quickly, such as repetitive actions that require the back. Repeated back injuries can also cause arthritic back pain to occur sooner, though proper back healing can make the back injury less of a factor. Some people are also more genetically predisposed to experiencing back pain than others. Women and those with weakened immune systems or chronic diseases are more predisposed to get arthritis. Learning about arthritis and back pain in relatives can help an individual prepare for possible arthritic back pain.

Symptoms

• An arthritic back can cause very dull pain that persistently aches. Those with arthritis in the back may feel stiff due to the inflammation in the back, making it more difficult to twist and turn or bend over. Those observing the back might see bulging or redness in an area on the back. The pain and decreased movement can affect the quality of life for sufferers, but these symptoms will not lead to any complications.

Prevention

• Obesity is a contributor to arthritic back pain, since extra weight puts strain on the spine and can lead to a breakdown in the spine. Exercise must be done carefully, since back injuries can lead to arthritic back pain and overuse of the back can cause spinal arthritis. However, cross-training can prevent overuse of any part of the body. Practice different exercises and workouts every day.

Diagnosis

• Spinal arthritis can be diagnosed with blood tests, X-rays, MRI scans, CAT scans, bone scans and myelograms, which involve liquid dyes injected into the spine and examined with an X-ray.

Treatment

• Chronic arthritic back pain is usually not treated, and pain relief measures are instead employed. However, a new treatment called radiofrequency ablation uses heat to destroy the nerves that cause pain, eliminating arthritic back pain.

Pain Relief

• Pain relief treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, applying heat or cold to the painful area, resting and physical activity. However, physical activity should be reduced or stopped if it leads to sharp pain.