What is arthrosis of the spine?
Arthrosis of the spine, also known as Facet Joint Osteoarthritis or Spondylarthrosis, is a degenerative joint disease that impacts the facet joints in your spine. These small joints connect and stabilize the vertebrae, allowing smooth movement and flexibility.
Wear and tear on these facet joints can lead to arthrosis as we age. The cartilage acts as a cushion to the joints and gradually wears down over time, causing friction between the bones. This friction leads to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Arthrosis of the spine commonly occurs in the lumbar region (lower back) and cervical region (neck). It can be caused by factors such as aging, genetics, obesity, repetitive strain injuries from certain occupations or activities, trauma from accidents or falls, and even poor posture habits.
What causes Spondylarthrosis?
Congenital and acquired defects in the structure and development of the spinal column can result in spondylarthrosis. People with poor posture are more likely to get this illness. The following factors cause spondylarthrosis:
- Spinal injuries
- Prolonged, static physical activity that puts strain on the spine
- chronic degenerative processes
- Persistent strain on the spine (in athletes)
- Flat feet and obesity (inadequate weight distribution on the spine).
Symptoms
Spondylarthrosis exhibits symptoms that vary with the affected spinal region:
- Cervical Spondylarthrosis: Presents as neck pain and stiffness. Advanced stages may include headaches, nausea, and tinnitus.
- Thoracic Spondylarthrosis: Rare due to limited thoracic spine mobility, with symptoms specific to the mid-back region.
- Lumbal Spondylarthrosis: Characterized by aching lower back pain with morning stiffness. Pain can lead to mobility reduction. But the pain usually improves after mobilizing the relevant joints.
How Spondylarthrosis Diagnosed?
Dr. Martin Liner will take a detailed medical history, including information about the circumstances leading to the injury or onset of symptoms. A thorough check-up examines how your spine moves, checks your nerves and looks for any signs of pain or tenderness.
Following the exam, you’ll be recommended imaging tests to take pictures of your spine:
- X-rays including oblique and bending views
- CT Scan
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Consultation with professionals to treat spine arthritis in Dubai is essential, as they will consider these symptoms alongside overall health and medical history.
Treatment Options
When it comes to managing facet joint osteoarthritis or spondylarthrosis, several treatment options are available.
Lifestyle Changes for Managing spondylarthrosis:
Lifestyle changes are crucial to preventing and managing spondylarthrosis. Regular low-impact workout, such walking or swimming, enhances spine stability and flexibility. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the spine and spinal joints.
Proper sitting and standing posture is essential to avoid undue spinal strain. Ergonomic alterations in the workplace and home can also help.
Engaging in core strengthening exercises can improve spinal alignment and relieve pressure.
It’s important to consult a professional before starting any new exercise regime.
Conservative Approaches:
- Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthrosis of the spine. Other medications like muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
- Physiotherapy: A customized exercise program that strengthens the muscles around the affected joints, boosts flexibility, and relieves pain.
- Heat/Cold Therapy: Hot or cold compression applied to the area reduces inflammation and provides temporary pain relief.
Interventional Options:
When conservative approaches are not reaching satisfactory results, the next step might be interventional procedures. These are usually provided under fluoroscopic (X-ray) imaging .
Facet Joint Injections: This minimally invasive option involves injecting a corticosteroid medication into the affected facet joint to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Radiofrequency Ablation: This procedure uses heat generated by radio waves to disrupt nerve signals in the facet joints, providing long-lasting pain relief.
Surgical Options:
Surgical options may be considered for treating facet joint osteoarthritis or spondylarthrosis when non-surgical approaches have not provided sufficient relief. Surgery is commonly performed as a last resort and is only recommended after careful consideration and evaluation by a medical professional.
Spinal fusion surgery: involves fusing two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine, reducing pain and preventing further damage.
Consult Dr. Martin Liner - a pain management doctor in Dubai
Facet joint osteoarthritis or spondylarthrosis is a common condition that affects the spine and can cause significant pain and discomfort.
If you are experiencing any symptoms and seeking treatment for spine arthritis in Dubai, it is crucial to seek expert medical advice.
Dr. Martin Liner is a renowned pain management doctor in Dubai who specializes in treating various spinal conditions, including spondylolisthesis and arthrosis of the spine.
