Causes

• Spinal arthritis usually results from the prolonged wear and tear on the cartilage between the vertebral bones of the spine or degeneration of the bone as you grow older. Arthritis of the spine can also be caused by injury to or misuse of the spine. Excess weight and a family history of arthritis can also make you more prone to the condition.
  
  

Effects

• As the cartilage between the vertebrae wears away, the bones rub against each other, causing painful inflammation and swelling around the spine. Over time, bone spurs and spinal deformities can also develop. Because of the debilitating effects, you may experience psychological effects such as depression and helplessness
  
  

Lumbar Spine Arthritis

• Arthritis of the lower back, lumbosacral arthritis, causes stiffness and pain in the lower spine and tailbone. The pain is typically intermittent and can radiate into your buttocks and thighs. You may experience difficulty bending over or walking. In severe cases, spinal arthritis can cause weakness, numbness and even paralysis in the legs.
  
  

Cervical Spine Arthritis

• Arthritis of the cervical spine (neck) produces pain and stiffness in the upper back, shoulders, arms and neck. It can cause limited range of motion in the neck and arms and if swelling presses against the nerves, it can cause numbness and weakness in the neck and arms. You might also feel the crunch of bone rubbing against bone in the neck.
  
  

Prognosis

• The earlier arthritis is diagnosed, the more steps can be taken to reduce disability in the future. Work with your doctor to get a diagnosis and find a treatment regimen that may consist of back-strengthening exercise, posture training, weight loss, stress management, medication for pain and slowing the disease's progression and occasionally surgery.