There are many different types of causes for arthritis back pain and over 80% of individuals who are 50 or older will suffer from some form of arthritis. Arthritis can occur at any area of the body where two bones have the potential to rub together. Spinal arthritis occurs in the back. The back is constructed of vertebrae, which are connected by cartilage and discs. Other muscles and ligaments attach to the spine and control movement.

Back pain from arthritis occurs when the discs or cartilage between the vertebrae wear down. The pain results from inflammation caused by bones rubbing together. The protective tissue can be worn down by injuries, misuse, bone overgrowth, bone spurs, and aging. Lumbar arthritis results in pain experienced in the pelvic and lower back. Cervical arthritis causes pain in the neck and upper back. Other spinal arthritis can cause pain throughout the body.

Certain lifestyles will lead to a greater percentage of individuals suffering from spinal arthritis. Older individuals, those who play sports or use their joints for work, individuals with injuries and obese individuals are very likely to suffer arthritis back pain as they get older.

People with arthritis and other diseases like liver disease, cancer and diabetes that run in the family, those with weakened immune system, and spinal deformities are all more likely to develop spinal arthritis. Women are at greater risk of developing arthritis than men.

Some common symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, back pain that comes intermittently, pain or tenderness in the neck, pain in the pelvic area or buttocks, crunching feeling or sound of bones rubbing together, difficulty walking, inflammation, morning spinal stiffness, lower back pain that extends to the thighs, pain in the heels, knees, hips and shoulders, weakness or numbness in the arms or legs and limited range of motion. Any extended period of pain or recurring pain should be investigated immediately.

If you are suffering from severe back pain then you should see a physician immediately. Try to provide as much detail as you can about your pain and when it first occurred. The doctor will most likely have you perform some basic exercises to determine what motion causes the pain. You may also have to undergo other tests to come to a conclusive diagnosis.

Spinal arthritis has many symptoms in common with more serious diseases and you need to get a diagnosis as soon as possible. With a correct diagnosis, treating arthritis back pain effectively is much easier.

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