Low Back/Spine

Low back and Spine can be affected by OsteoarthritisOsteoarthritis in the lower back or spine usually begins with stiffness and soreness in the area and eventually leads to pain while moving the vertebrae in the spine. This condition may also place excess pressure on the nerves that exit the spinal column and may result in weakness or even numbness and tingling in the arms and legs. Osteoarthritis between the vertebrae can cause serious problems with the motion and form of the spine. If pieces of bone break off into the surrounding area, they can become lodged in the muscle, nerve, and in the jelly-like sacs known as intervertebral discs that are between each vertebrae. This condition is not only extremely painful but also has the potential to disable the sufferer. If the intervertebral discs become irritated from the small shards of bone that break of when the joint rubs together, it may lead to an infection. If not treated, this infection can also affect the nervous system. Although Osteoarthritis in the spine is one of the least common forms of Osteoarthritis, it can be one of the most damaging; not only to your body, but to other aspects of your life. Rest is your best and most immediate option to treat Osteoarthritis in the spine. Take a few days to give your spine a chance to recover from inflammation and swelling. During this time, it is greatly beneficial to apply ice and topical solutions that relieve pain. Plan a visit to your doctor as soon as possible. They will be able to give you treatment options that will treat your symptoms and condition as immediate as possible. They might also refer you to a chiropractor. A chiropractor may be able to help adjust the spine in ways that relieve pressure from the vertebrae and temporarily ease severe pain. If there is severe stiffness in the back (especially in the mornings) a heating pad or other form of heat application can be beneficial since it will provide more oxygen to the area and allow the joints to become limber.