There are many different types of causes for arthritis back pain and over 80% of individuals who are 50 or older will suffer from some form of arthritis. Arthritis can occur at any area of the body where two bones have the potential to rub together. Spinal arthritis occurs in the back. The back is constructed of vertebrae, which are connected by cartilage and discs. Other muscles and ligaments attach to the spine and control movement.

Back pain from arthritis occurs when the discs or cartilage between the vertebrae wear down. The pain results from inflammation caused by bones rubbing together. The protective tissue can be worn down by injuries, misuse, bone overgrowth, bone spurs, and aging. Lumbar arthritis results in pain experienced in the pelvic and lower back. Cervical arthritis causes pain in the neck and upper back. Other spinal arthritis can cause pain throughout the body.

There are certain circumstances that lead to arthritis back pain over other factors. Mainly individuals who are older, use their joints a lot for sports or work, have injuries, are over weight, have a family history of arthritis have a higher likelihood of developing arthritis back pain.

Individuals with a genetic disposition for diabetes, liver disease and cancer, and individuals with a weakened immune system are all more likely to develop arthritis back pain or spinal arthritis. Women are also more likely to have arthritis than men.

Some symptoms that are associated with spinal arthritis include a limited range of motion, spinal deformity, difficulty walking, weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, the sound of bone rubbing together or a crunching feeling, pain in the hips, heels, knees or shoulders, lower back pain that extends to the pelvic area, buttocks or thighs, pain or tenderness in the neck, morning spinal stiffness, back pain that comes and goes, inflammation, and stiffness.

If you are suffering from severe back pain then you should see a physician immediately. Try to provide as much detail as you can about your pain and when it first occurred. The doctor will most likely have you perform some basic exercises to determine what motion causes the pain. You may also have to undergo other tests to come to a conclusive diagnosis.

Spinal arthritis has many symptoms in common with more serious diseases and you need to get a diagnosis as soon as possible. With a correct diagnosis, treating arthritis back pain effectively is much easier.