Back Arthritis Symptoms – What to Expect
Back arthritis symptoms can be among some of the most painful symptoms that you can have. Many people who have some type of arthritis find it very difficult to cope with life on a daily basis. Back arthritis symptoms are most often caused directly by problems with the spine. If you’ve ever had a spinal injury or have performed certain types of heavy manual labor, you are more likely to have symptoms. Older people and those who are obese are also more likely to encounter back arthritis symptoms. If you know exactly what is causing your symptoms, you can choose a better course of treatment.
Back arthritis symptoms affect the lower back more than any other area. Usually, you’ll experience pain and stiffness as your most common symptoms. Back arthritis symptoms will often be most common early in the morning, shortly after you’ve gotten out of bed. You may find that the symptoms diminish somewhat after you’ve been awake for a while. Other back arthritis symptoms include swelling and pinched nerves, both of which can be quite painful. You may also find that your symptoms are worse during periods of very cold weather or after a lot of physical exertion. If you have arthritis, care should be taken during exercise.
Understanding how these back arthritis symptoms actually occur will help you manage your pain better. Most problems with pain are caused by osteoarthritis, which is related to typical “wear and tear”. Back arthritis symptoms may also occur when arthritis is caused by an injury. Athletes and those who have had to perform strenuous labor often end up with these types of symptoms. You may also have a problem with back arthritis symptoms if you have rheumatoid arthritis. This autoimmune disorder affects people of all ages.
One of the best things about treating back arthritis symptoms is that several options are available. What types of treatment options are available to you will depend on how severe your symptoms are and what type of arthritis you have. Your doctor may suggest physical therapy to help treat your back arthritis symptoms, as well as weight loss. Alternating cold and heat therapy is often recommended. Some of the more drastic non-surgical measures to treat back arthritis pain include epidural injections, which often provide relief. Several surgical procedures are available that may help, depending on what caused your arthritis and your body’s ability to handle general anesthesia.
