Back pain is an issue that millions of people live with every day. It can originate from a variety of sources, but identifying its source is critical for reducing and managing it. One of the possible reasons for chronic back pain is spinal arthritis, which can cause intense discomfort and limited mobility. In this article, we will discuss the four signs of back pain that might be caused by spinal arthritis.
1. Unrelenting Pain in the Lower Back or Neck
Oftentimes, bad posture that is left untreated can cause strain and buildup of scar tissue in the neck and lower back, which can then develop into spinal arthritis. This type of pain will not go away after rest and will typically worsen over time. It is important to seek medical attention if this is the case.
What Causes Unrelenting Pain in the Lower Back or Neck?
A combination of poor posture and the stress placed on the spine over time can lead to a buildup of scar tissue, resulting in unrelenting pain in the lower back or neck. Additionally, different activities such as walking, running, and lifting can strain our backs and cause pain in the long run.
What Can I Do to Relieve Chronic Low-Back Pain?
The best way to relieve chronic low-back pain is to practice good posture and improve muscle strength to support the back. It is also important to modify activities to reduce strain on the spine and find activities that can help reduce stress and stimulate the healing process, such as yoga, swimming or walking.
2. Inflammation or Swelling of the Back
Spinal arthritis is caused by wear and tear on the spine, so it is typical for inflammation or swelling to be present. If a person does not get treatment, it will cause the patient more and more discomfort and, most likely, limited mobility in the future.
What Causes Inflammation or Swelling of the Back?
The inflammation or swelling of the back is typically caused by a combination of wear and tear and lack of proper maintenance of the spine. Poor posture for an extended period of time and strenuous activities that are placed on the spine can lead to inflammation or swelling.
How Can I Manage Inflammation or Swelling of the Back?
The best way to manage inflammation or swelling of the back is to practice good posture, maintain a healthy weight, and do gentle stretching exercises that can help reduce stress on the spine. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications can be taken to reduce the inflammation and swelling.
3. Difficulty Standing
Oftentimes, people with spinal arthritis have difficulty standing and getting up from a sitting position. This is due to the strain placed on the spine from wear and tear, and the difficulty of standing can worsen over time if left untreated.
What Causes Difficulty Standing?
The primary cause of difficulty standing is the wear and tear that comes from aging, bad posture, and strenuous activities. Additionally, people who are obese are more likely to experience difficulty standing due to the increased pressure on their spines.
How Can I Help Reduce Symptoms of Difficulty Standing?
The most effective way to reduce symptoms of difficulty standing is to practice good posture, maintain a healthy weight, and practice stretching exercises that can help improve back mobility. Additionally, engaging in low-impact exercises such as walking and swimming can help reduce the pressure on the spine and improve the patient’s ability to stand.
4. Pain That Worsens With Activity
Spinal arthritis can cause back pain that worsens with activity. The wear and tear, combined with the other symptoms mentioned above, can cause pain to become more intense when there is any movement or activity.
What Causes Pain That Worsens With Activity?
The most common cause for pain that worsens with activities is a combination of wear and tear and lack of proper maintenance of the spine. Additionally, activities that involve intense movements such as running or lifting can further wear down the spine and cause more chronic pain.
How Can I Manage Pain That Worsens With Activity?
The best way to manage pain that worsens with activity is to practice good posture and maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, avoiding activities that involve intense movements and replacing them with activities that can help reduce stress can also be beneficial. It is also important to engage in low-impact exercises such as walking and swimming, as they can help reduce pain and improve the patient’s ability to move.
People Also Ask
What causes back pain?
Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor posture, overuse, injury, and underlying health conditions.
Does arthritis cause back pain?
Yes, arthritis is one of the common causes of back pain. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and spinal arthritis can all lead to chronic back pain and discomfort.
What are the symptoms of arthritis in the back?
The symptoms of arthritis in the back include unrelenting pain in the lower back or neck, inflammation or swelling of the back, difficulty standing, and pain that worsens with activity.
How can I relieve lower back pain?
The best way to relieve lower back pain is to practice good posture, maintain a healthy weight, and modify activities to reduce strain on the spine. Additionally, engaging in low-impact exercises such as yoga, swimming, and walking can help reduce stress and stimulate the healing process.
What is the difference between arthritis and osteoarthritis?
The main difference between arthritis and osteoarthritis is that arthritis is an umbrella term for more than 100 types of joint diseases, whereas osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and involves the wearing down of the cartilage in joints.
Final Words
Spinal arthritis is a significant source of chronic back pain that can cause intense discomfort and limited mobility. It is important to be mindful of the four indicators of spinal arthritis – unrelenting pain in the lower back or neck, inflammation or swelling of the back, difficulty standing, and pain that worsens with activity – so that you can seek proper medical attention and manage your chronic back pain.