Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting joints in the body, including the spinal facet joints. Spinal osteoarthritis is a common occurrence in individuals 50 years of age and older, often causing neck and back pain or limited mobility issues. While there is not a cure for osteoarthritis, those who have painful symptoms of the disease can find relief with treatment. Our spinal specialists at Hanowell Spine Clinic in Covington, GA, provide effective spinal osteoarthritis treatment if you are suffering from this degenerative disease.
Causes of Facet Joint Osteoarthritis
Aging of the spine, or spondylosis, is a key component of spinal osteoarthritis. There are several issues connected with aging that can impact the severity or onset of spinal arthritis. The wear and tear on facet joints over decades of lifting, bending and twisting can result in lost cartilage, increasing friction between the vertebrae. In addition, loss of moisture in the spinal discs causes disc shrinkage, bringing the vertebrae closer together. The friction between the vertebrae and facet joints can create inflammation, resulting in localized pain and radiating nerve pain.
Spinal osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, but it can be slowed in progression, and symptoms can be managed. Our team at Hanowell Spine Clinic can help patients with spinal osteoarthritis find the right combination of treatments to give them relief. Each patient may experience different symptoms, depending on the facet joint affected and the severity of inflammation or friction. Some common symptoms include:
- Localized neck or lower back pain
- Stiffness in the back or neck
- Limited range of motion in the back or neck
- Increased pain after sitting or standing for long periods
- Sciatica symptoms – tingling, weakness or pain shooting from the back and down the legs
- Weakness or tingling in the arms or hands
Our spine experts can design a spinal osteoarthritis treatment plan that addresses your symptoms and will give you pain relief and improved mobility. We may recommend options like facet injections, PRP injections, physical therapy or spinal cord stimulation, depending on your condition. To learn more about spinal osteoarthritis treatment options, contact our clinic in Covington, GA, to schedule a consultation.