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Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine

Degenerative arthritis of the spine, also known as osteoarthritis, is a breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the spinal joints. It occurs primarily in people older than 50 and is much more common in women than men. This degenerative condition is generally a result of wear and tear, but also can occur because of a genetically-inherited condition or spinal injury. The resulting spinal compression can cause painful nerve irritation or impingement on nerve roots.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the spine include tenderness in the area of the effected joint, diminished flexibility, swelling, numbness or tingling in the arms and hands, or the sensation of bone rubbing against bone. Not everyone experiences all of the symptoms, and some people experience sharper pain than others. If you experience back or neck pain, you should consult your doctor. Most back pain can be managed without surgery. Non-surgical treatments for spinal stenosis and other painful conditions brought on by degenerative arthritis of the spine include:
- Exercise to increase muscle strength around the effected spinal joints
- Over-the-counter or prescription pain medicine
- Pain-reducing steroidal injections
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic therapy
- Acupuncture
If chronic neck or back pain due to spinal arthritis remains a problem despite non-surgical treatment, your doctor might suggest surgery as an option. Traditional open-back surgery can mean a long hospital stay and an even longer period of recuperation. The medical professionals at Laser Spine Institute (LSI) offer a variety of minimally invasive, outpatient alternatives. Contact LSI to find out how innovative endoscopic procedures performed by our award-winning doctors can help you rediscover a life without the back or neck pain brought on by degenerative arthritis of the spine.
Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.




