Methylprednisolone for Spinal Arthritis

Methylprednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid drug that is used to reduce inflammation and swelling. This man-made drug is designed to mimic the body’s naturally occurring corticosteroid hormones. It is used to treat a number of medical conditions, including certain blood disorders and various types of arthritis, including types of arthritis that affect the spine.

Symptoms of Spinal Arthritis

Arthritis occurs when the joints in the body degenerate and become inflamed. Just like the knees and the elbows, the joints in the neck and back are susceptible to developing a number of arthritic conditions, including osteoarthritis (which is marked by a degeneration of cartilage on joint surfaces). Regardless of the type of arthritis that is afflicting the spine, a patient’s symptoms typically include the following:

• Pain in the neck and/or back
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Limited range of motion
• And more

Treating Spinal Arthritis

Many patients find relief from the symptoms of spinal arthritis with conservative therapies. These treatment options include hot and cold therapy, moderate exercise and bed rest. A variety of anti-inflammatory drugs, including methylprednisolone, also are commonly prescribed to alleviate these symptoms. As with all medications, methylprednisolone has a number of possible side effects and may interact with other drugs. Patients who have been prescribed methylprednisolone should discuss these issues with a doctor or pharmacist.

Patients who have used methylprednisolone and received no relief from the symptoms of spinal arthritis should discuss other treatment options with their physicians. A number of additional treatments are available, including the endoscopic procedures performed at Laser Spine Institute. Contact Laser Spine Institute for more information on our safe and effective outpatient procedures.