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Millions of people suffer from arthritis. In fact, arthritis affects approximately
80% of people over the age of 55 in the United States. It is estimated that by
the year 2020, over 60 million people will suffer from this often-disabling problem.
Arthritis is actually a term for over 100 rheumatoid disorders. Common forms include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Juvenile Arthritis
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Arthritis can affect any part of the body, even the spine. The information provided
in this article focuses on arthritis and the spine. Quick
Anatomy Lesson - The Spine
The spine is made up of individual bones called vertebrae,
which provide support for the spine. These vertebrae are connected in the front
of the spine by intervertebral discs that help support the spine and also allow
it to move. The many ligaments and muscles that are attached to the back of the
spine provide the power for movement. Arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the
joints is worn down as a result of wear and tear, aging, injury or misuse. Osteoarthritis,
the most common form of arthritis, also includes loss of cartilage, overgrowth
of bone and the formation of bone spurs. This causes the bones under the cartilage
to rub together, causing pain, swelling and loss of motion of the joint. Osteoarthritis
can occur in any joint but most often occurs in the hips, knees, hands or the
spine. Osteoarthritis and the Spine
In the spine, osteoarthritis can cause stiffness and pain in the neck or
in the lower back. Cervical arthritis (also called cervical spondylosis) affects
the upper spine and neck. Lumbar or lumbosacral arthritis affects the lower back
and pelvic area. Ankylosing Spondylitis is another type of spinal arthritis. Who
Gets Arthritis and Why?
Some people are more at risk for developing arthritis
than others. The following are some factors that contribute to a person's risk
of developing arthritis: - Age: arthritis is more common in people over the
age of 50
- Overused joints from work or sports related activities
- Injury or trauma to the bones (like fractures)
- Obesity: excessive weight
places stress on joints
- Family history
- Gender: women are twice as
likely to get arthritis
- Chronic illness such as diabetes, cancer or liver
disease
- Weakened immune system
- Infections such as Lyme disease.
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