Questions? Call Toll-Free 1-

Contact us today. We're here for you 7 days a week.

Contact Us By Phone 1-
Am I a Candidate for Surgery? Learn More
Request an MRI Review Submit Information

Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Spine


Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Spine

The exact causes of rheumatoid arthritis in the spine are still not well understood. This type of arthritis is considered incurable. However, this condition is known to be an autoimmune disease that attacks joint tissue and affects women much more frequently than men. Furthermore, it occurs often within the cervical spine, the neck region at the top of the spinal column that supports the head.

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in the spine include:

  • Persistent or occasional pain within the joints, which might also feel warm
  • Trouble walking, or an unexplained change in your gait
  • Weakness or a loss of coordination
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands or legs
  • Prolonged stiffness in the spinal joints
  • Gradual change in the shape of the spine

While rheumatoid arthritis has no known cure, its symptoms may often be managed through many of the same non-surgical techniques prescribed for sufferers of osteoarthritis of the spine or other conditions that lead to spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal canal). Exercise and over-the-counter pain medicine may be prescribed by your doctor. If non-surgical treatment proves ineffective, surgery may become an option.

Traditionally, treatment of spinal rheumatoid arthritis has been approached with fusion of the effected vertebrae or the installation of rods or screws to hold the spinal structure in place. This kind of open-back surgery can be risky and requires a long recovery period. The stress created by open spinal surgery may actually worsen the condition.

The award-winning surgeons at Laser Spine Institute (LSI) may help you rediscover life by using a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure. Contact the medical professionals of LSI today to learn more about rheumatoid arthritis in the spine or to receive a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.

Need an immediate response?

Our live chat feature allows you to talk instantly with a Patient Care Coordinator.

  • - -

Download your Free info packet on Endoscopic Spine Surgery
& receive our quarterly e-Newsletter.



What is Laser Spine Surgery? Can Laser Spine Institute Help You?

You can get these answers by attending a free educational seminar.

Back to Health

Be inspired, informed and connected.

Expert answers, informational videos and inspiring stories of patients who returned to life at its fullest with Laser Spine Institute.

LaserSpineWellness.com

Patient Reviews and Stories

Natalie Gulbis shares her story about her road to recovery from back pain after minimally invasive surgery.


Learn about Natalie Gulbis's Recovery

Meet our Physicians and Surgeons

Our medical professionals know that you expect excellence in terms of medical attention.

Learn about our physicians and medical staff