Osteoarthritiscan affect any joint in the body, including the spine.
Osteoarthritis of the spine comes up whenever there is deterioration in the discs between the vertebrae.
Early diagnosis and treatment help people with osteoarthritis of the spine manage their symptoms.
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An accuratediagnosisis needed so appropriatetreatmentcan begin.
Bone spurs orosteophytestypically develop.
The surface of the facet joints is covered with articular cartilage.
With cervical osteoarthritis, neck pain may radiate into the shoulder or down one of the arms.
Osteophytes in the cervical region can cause nerve compression and weakness in the arms.
Osteoarthritis pain in the thoracic region of the spine is usually provoked by movement of forward flexion and hyperextension.
Symptoms can worsen after physical activity, repetitive movements, and sitting for prolonged periods.
Back pain can become a recurring problem.
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American Physical Therapy Association.Physical therapy guide to osteoarthritis of the spine.
