Living with arthritis of the spine can be challenging. The pain, inflammation, and stiffness can occur in the spine's joints or at the sites where ligaments and tendons attach to the spine's vertebrae—typically developing in the low back and neck.
Arthritis of the spine often becomes chronic and debilitating, but there are many things you can do to ease the pain, improve spinal function and movement, and enjoy your life doing the activities you love.
Lifestyle changes to reduce inflammation or stress on the spine can be as simple as dietary and exercise changes. Eating a healthy diet will not cure arthritis, but some foods reduce inflammation, boost the immune system and strengthen bones. Diets rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, leafy greens, garlic, turmeric, onions, and fresh fruits like berries may ease some symptoms of spinal arthritis.
Developing a regular and gentle exercise is crucial for our health but also can help manage the symptoms of spinal arthritis. Swimming, low impact aerobics, walking, and yoga or pilates are all considered helpful in strengthening and stretching the back while supporting the spine and easing pressure on the vertebral discs and facet joints.
Surgery, physical therapy, and medication may be recommended for spinal arthritis if other treatments do not sufficiently relieve neck or back pain.
If you suffer from chronic spine pain of the neck and back due to arthritis, schedule an appointment with Dr. Payam Moazzaz for an in-depth examination. Dr. Moazzaz specializes in non-invasive, nonsurgical therapies and treatments for back and neck pain.
Dr. Payam Moazzaz specializes in advanced minimally invasive spine surgery that enables successful returns to active lifestyles.