Spinal arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or facet joint syndrome, is a condition that causes a great deal of pain between two vertebrae within the spine. Facet joint disorders are exceedingly common, and can be completely disabling. Those who experience facet joint syndrome will likely experience a host of serious symptoms, sometimes leading to long-term damage (if not treated quickly and effectively). The facet joints link the vertebrae together, and their functioning is essential to basic movement. Inflammation of these joints can lead to intense back pain, and can greatly disrupt day-to-day life. The symptoms of facet joint syndrome may vary, depending on the location of the affected joint. Because the cervical and lumbar (upper and lower) regions of the spine are far more flexible than the thoracic region of the spine, these tend to be the most commonly affected areas.
Symptoms may present themselves as stiffness and achiness throughout the spine, or as a sharp, radiating pain originating at the point of inflammation and moving outward. As the spinal nerves are compressed more and more, the pain may continue to intensify.
Symptoms of Spinal Arthritis
Some symptoms of spinal arthritis may include:
- Low back pain, radiating down the back of the upper leg or down into the buttocks
- Great discomfort when leaning backwards
- Loss of flexibility in the spinal muscles
- Discomfort or pain in the shoulders and lower neck
- Headaches
- Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or hands
- Difficulty standing up straight
Treatment Options for Spinal Arthritis
Facet joint syndrome can be conservatively and effectively treated, regardless of which area of the spine it directly affects. Some treatment options include:
- Physical therapy
- Increased periods of rest
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Mild exercise (such as yoga)
- Alternation of hot and cold compresses
If pain persists for several months, and non-invasive treatment options seem to be ineffective, surgery may be necessary. Fortunately, minimally invasive surgical procedures can be extremely successful in treating pain long-term.
How Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches Heals Spinal Arthritis
We at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches work hard to properly diagnose the root causes of spinal pain, and treat each unique case accordingly. If you suffer from spinal arthritis, we are here to help. Our experienced team of medical professionals will utilize numerous non-invasive methods of recovery before turning to surgery (as a last resort). We have had ample success treating both men and women of every age with a range of effective modalities, including physical therapy, increased exercise, and mild, anti-inflammatory medications.
If you are suffering from spinal arthritis, we can help. Call (561) 434-7577 and let the caring staff at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches get you on the path to healing.
