Patient EducationArthritis is a progressive condition that involves layers of cartilage in joints that may break down causing a gradual wear and tear. ."Arth" means joint and "itis" means inflammation. Thus, arthritis is an inflammation of the joint. Loss of joint motion and swelling occur as the surface layers rub together causing pain. Spinal arthritis develops gradually over years as a result of bones and joints rubbing together from erratic movement that occurs in trauma or as a result of a loss in joint stability. Joint compression is a natural sequel to having an upright posture and the time under load naturally increases with age. The combination of loss of stability in the spine and the effects of gravity will impact both the disc and spinal joints. Spinal muscle weakening and compression can allow nerves to be pinched. This worsens progressively as the weight of the human torso increases over time.Arthritis of the spine most often strikes men and women over age 40, and some people are more susceptible to arthritic changes due to inherited, congenital, or acquired causes.
