Can Arthritis Cause Lower Back Pain

What Other Steps Can I Take To Manage Or Treat Ankylosing Spondylitis

In addition to standard AS treatments, these steps may also help ease inflammation and pain:

• Eat a nutritious diet: Fried foods, processed meats and foods high in fat and sugar can have an inflammatory effect. Anti-inflammatory diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, may help fight inflammation.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity and excess weight puts pressure on joints and bones.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can weaken bones and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Stop smoking: Tobacco use accelerates spinal damage and intensifies pain. Your provider can help you quit smoking.

Stiffness And Loss Of Flexibility

Inflammation of the spinal joints in the lower back can cause them to become somewhat less flexible. Bending sideways or hyperextending the back in a backwards motion can be difficult and painful as it puts increased pressure on the lower back joints. Bending forward is usually less painful, although people may still experience noticeable loss in flexibility. After resting or sleeping or periods of inactivity, the back joints can become particularly stiff, and stiffness can worsen symptoms of pain and reduced mobility.

Arthritis is a degenerative condition that can lead to a spinal condition called Degenerative Disc Disease , or spondylosis, in which the gel-filled discs between each vertebra in the lumbar region start to dry up, losing their flexibility and ability to cushion the spine. Those with DDD may find the sitting position to be the most painful because it puts the most pressure on the lower back joints. Lying down and even walking or running can sometimes help to improve symptoms of pain and stiffness.

• Inflammation of the spinal joints in the lower back can cause them to become somewhat less flexible.
• After resting or sleeping or periods of inactivity, the back joints can become particularly stiff, and stiffness can worsen symptoms of pain and reduced mobility.

Symptoms Of Psoriatic Arthritis In The Spine

According to Davis, when psoriatic arthritis affects the spine, you may experience:

• Back pain that gets worse with rest and better when youre moving
• Back stiffness in the morning that lasts at least 30 minutes
• Inflammatory pain around your hips and butt
• Reduced range of motion

Results from a study published in March 2015 in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases suggest that many people with psoriatic arthritis have back pain for 10 years before theyre diagnosed with spondylitis. A magnetic resonance imaging scan allows your doctor to see changes in the bones and soft tissues of the spine and pelvis to diagnose spondylitis.

Read Also: Advil For Back Pain Dosage

Deterrence And Patient Education

Low back pain is a widespread condition that affects the majority of patients in their lifetime. Providers need to educate patients on this condition and the various treatment measures to prevent developing chronic back pain. Shared decision-making is a crucial part of an active educative effort between a physician and patient and should be individualized based on patient needs. All education efforts should include key components regarding disease information and emotional support as it pertains to social influences and self-management. Specifically, the diagnosis, prognosis, and management are components of discussion in patients with spondyloarthritis of the spine.

Try The Worlds #1 Enzyme Supplement Free

With a high-quality proteolytic enzyme supplement, you can restore your youthful enzyme levels. In a way, you are turning back the clock on your heart health.

And unlike many vitamins and drugs , you literally cannot get too many enzymes. You can and absolutely should take them every day.

When you consider how powerful they are for reversing damage in your cardiovascular system, youll realize its not just a good idea to find a high-quality proteolytic enzyme supplement for daily use

Its essential.

And you should know that proteolytic enzymes do a lot more than protect your heart.

Most of the chronic conditions we experience as we age from arthritis to cancer to diabetes are caused by inflammation.

Because of their unmatched anti-inflammatory properties, proteolytic enzymes can be used to treat dozens of conditions.

And heres something else you should know

Unlike many miracle supplements, proteolytic enzymes are NOT all hype. Science shows they actually work. And theyve been a standard treatment for many conditions in Europe and Asia for decades.

Now, you dont need a prescription for enzymes, but youll want to make sure you choose the best, most effective supplement on the market.

Here at the Healthy Back Institute®, weve taken the guesswork out of the process for you. Weve done the research, and weve developed the worlds most potent proteolytic enzyme supplement available anywhere.

Its called Heal-n-Soothe®

And today, you can get a FREE bottle.

Read Also: How Much Advil For Back Pain

Neck Pain Caused By Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the neck, called cervical spondylosis, is also common. This is characterized by arthritic deterioration of the discs and facet joint cartilage of the cervical spine. Spondylosis is nearly universal in elderly patients, but can also affect younger people. Some people experience no symptoms, while others may feel stiffness and/or pain in the neck, shoulders and/or between the shoulder blades. See also .

What Causes Lower Back Pain

Many injuries, conditions and diseases can cause lower back pain. They include:

• Strains and sprains: Back strains and sprains are the most common cause of back pain. You can injure muscles, tendons or ligaments by lifting something too heavy or not lifting safely. Some people strain their back by sneezing, coughing, twisting or bending over.
• Fractures: The bones in the spine can break during an accident, like a car crash or a fall. Certain conditions increase the risk of fractures.
• Disk problems: Disks cushion the vertebrae . Disks can bulge from their position in the spine and press on a nerve. They can also tear . With age, disks can get flatter and offer less protection .
• Structural problems: A condition called spinal stenosis happens when the spinal column is too narrow for the spinal cord. Something pinching the spinal cord can cause severe sciatic nerve pain and lower back pain. Scoliosis can lead to pain, stiffness and difficulty moving.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis to cause lower back pain. Ankylosing spondylitis causes lower back pain, inflammation and stiffness in the spine.
• Disease:Spine tumors, infections and several types of cancer can cause back pain. Other conditions can cause back pain, too. These include kidney stones and abdominal aortic aneurysm.
• Spondylolisthesis: This condition causes the vertebrae in the spine to slip out of place. Spondylolisthesis leads to low back pain and often leg pain as well.

Don’t Miss: Will Naproxen Help Back Pain

Bird Dog Managing Arthritis Pain In Lower Back

Kneel on all fours with your hands under your shoulders as well as your knees under your hips. Stretch your left leg and ideal arm so they are as horizontal as you can obtain them, in line with your back.

Hold it for three to 5 secs. Swap, extending your right leg as well as left arm. Strained your base muscle mass while extending if you can.

When Should I See My Healthcare Provider About Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain usually gets better with rest and pain relievers. Back pain that doesnt go away may be a sign of a more serious condition.

See your provider if you have:

• Pain that doesnt get better after about a week of at-home care.
• Tingling, numbness, weakness or pain in your buttocks or legs.
• Severe pain or muscle spasms that interfere with your normal activities.
• Fever, weight loss, bowel or bladder problems or other unexplained symptoms.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Millions of people live with low back pain. Stiffness, pain and limited movement can have a major impact on quality of life. But you may be able to avoid lower back pain by maintaining a healthy weight and staying active. Talk to your provider if back pain doesnt go away or if youre unable to do the activities you enjoy. Several treatments can relieve pain, help you move better and get more out of life.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 01/18/2021.

References

Also Check: Is Advil Good For Back Pain

Alternative Remedies And Treatments

Nutritional supplementation is helpful to some patients though the science on this is not entirely supportive of their effectiveness.

There are some studies to suggest that acupuncture can decrease the pain associated with osteoarthritis of the hip.

Although there is little hard science on this point, most hip surgeons and rheumatologists believe that patients with osteoarthritis of the hip should consider avoiding impact sports such as running in order to avoid increasing the rate at which the disease progresses.

It is important that patients with osteoarthritis of the hip avoid decreasing their activity level and it is important that they remain fit. However this often does require some modification of exercise programs running and walking programs are usually poorly tolerated by patients with osteoarthritis of the hip. Stationary bike, swimming and water aerobics usually are well-tolerated and they are recommended.

How Common Is Lower Back Pain

Around four out of five people have lower back pain at some point in their lives. Its one of the most common reasons people visit healthcare providers.

Some people are more likely to have lower back pain than others. Risk factors for lower back pain include:

• Age: People over 30 have more back pain. Disks wear away with age. As the disks weaken and wear down, pain and stiffness can result.
• Weight: People who are obese or carry extra weight are more likely to have back pain. Excess weight puts pressure on joints and disks.
• Overall health: Weakened abdominal muscles cant support the spine, which can lead to back strains and sprains. People who smoke, drink alcohol excessively or live a sedentary lifestyle have a higher risk of back pain.
• Occupation and lifestyle: Jobs and activities that require heavy lifting or bending can increase the risk of a back injury.
• Structural problems: Severe back pain can result from conditions, such as scoliosis, that change spine alignment.
• Disease: People who have a family history of osteoarthritis, certain types of cancer and other disease have a higher risk of low back pain.
• Mental health: Back pain can result from depression and anxiety.

Recommended Reading: Is Aleve Or Ibuprofen Better For Back Pain

Coping With Low Mood And Sleep Problems

Living with pain can affect your mood and sleep, and its normal to feel low from time to time. If this is something that affects you, try going along to a pain clinic, where you can learn how to manage your pain. Theyll usually take place at outpatient clinics, and you can be referred to them by whoever is treating you.

Pain can be affected by different things, including feeling low or stressed. There are a number of talking therapies and techniques you can learn, which can help you manage your pain, support your emotional wellbeing, and deal with any low feelings you might have. Mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy can help with osteoarthritis.

Learning to relax your muscles can also help, particularly if you have neck pain and are feeling stressed, as this can cause your muscles to become more tense.

A pillow thats too firm or thick can make neck pain worse. Try to sleep with your head level to the rest of your body. Its important to have a mattress that gives your head and spine proper support.

Try having a hot bath, reading a book, or listening to the radio or a relaxation CD to wind down before bed. If pain is waking you during the night, try taking paracetamol or another painkiller before bed. Talk to your doctor or a sleep expert for more advice.

Progression Of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Over months or years, pain may spread up the spine and into the neck. As the disease progresses, the body’s defense mechanisms fight back by producing new bone . The new bone grows between and around the vertebrae, causing abnormal fusion and increases the risk for spinal fracture.

Sometimes ankylosing spondylitis leads to a spinal deformity such as a humpback or swayback . Advanced symptoms can be chronic and include severe pain and stiffness of the spine and possibly other body joints. Bowel and eye inflammation may be associated with ankylosing spondylitis.

Recommended Reading: Is Aleve Good For Lower Back Pain

Symptoms Of Arthritis Of The Spine

Spinal arthritis causes stiffness and low back pain. The stiffness is worst upon waking up in the morning, tends to ease with activity, then worsens toward the end of the day. Presumably, this is because fluid has built up in the joint due to inactivity overnight, which causes more swelling.

The low back pain due to facet joint arthritis has a typical pattern:

• The pain is mostly more than 80% in the back, runs into the buttocks, and often really feels like its in the hip.
• As it gets even worse people often report burning on the outer aspect of the thigh, and sometimes pain down the leg.

How Arthritis In The Back Is Treated

Treatment for back arthritis depends on many factors, including your age, level of pain, type and severity of arthritis, other medical conditions and medications, and personal health goals. Because joint damage caused by arthritis is irreversible, treatment usually focuses on managing pain and preventing further damage.

Don’t Miss: Aleve Or Ibuprofen For Back Pain

Spinal Arthritis Causes And Risk Factors

The causes of arthritis in the back or neck vary depending on the type of arthritis you have. Besides normal wear and tear and autoimmune triggers, in many cases the exact cause remains unknown. Genetic components have been identified in connection with some forms of spinal arthritis, meaning that it may be hereditary.

Other spinal arthritis risk factors include:

• Excess weight/obesity

• Presence of certain conditions such as diabetes, gout, psoriasis, tuberculosis, irritable bowel syndrome and Lyme disease

Spinal Arthritis May Contribute To Other Issues In The Spine

Spinal arthritis may cause bone spurs overgrowths on the edges of the bones. In the spine, bone spurs particularly affect facet joints, making them grow larger. This condition is called facet joint hypertrophy. Although bone spurs on their own are not harmful, they may narrow the passages for the spinal cord and the nerves exiting the spine. This may lead to two painful conditions:

• Spinal stenosis compression of the spinal cord inside the spinal canal

• Radiculopathy pinching of the peripheral nerves as they exit the spine

Ankylosing spondylitis may also cause additional problems such as:

• Stress fractures in places where new bone has formed

• Collapsed vertebrae

• A spinal deformity called kyphosis

Read Also: Does Aleve Work For Back Pain

How Is Psoriatic Arthritis In The Back Treated

For mild psoriatic arthritis, the pain and stiffness can be alleviated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs . In addition, injections of corticosteroids may be used.1

For moderate to severe disease, treatments that target joint disease in PsA can reduce symptoms and prevent disease progression. Recommended treatments include disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs . The first step for treatments is usually DMARDs such as methotrexate, leflunomide, or sulfasalazine. Other treatments include medicines that target tumor necrosis factor , a chemical that produces a wide range of inflammation in PsA. Examples of TNF blockers include etanercept , adalimumab , infliximab , golimumab , and certolizumab pegol . Other DMARDs that have proven effective in clinical trials include ustekinumab , brodalumab , and secukinumab . 4 The FDA has also recently approved Inflectra , a biosimilar to infliximab, for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis.6

Physical therapy, involving exercises, stretching, heat, cold, and possible vocational readjustments, can be a critical treatment approach to protect the involved joints and maintain function.1,5

Osteoarthritis Of The Spine

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of spinal arthritis. It usually affects the lower back and develops through wear and tear. As the cartilage between the joints slowly breaks down, it leads to inflammation and pain. Because the pain is from mechanical damage, it is typically more noticeable when you bend or twist your back. Past back injuries may also contribute to the development of degenerative arthritis of the spine.

Osteoarthritis of the spine usually affects the facet joints between the vertebrae. It is also known as facet joint arthritis, facet joint syndrome and facet disease. In some cases, degeneration of the spinal discs may contribute to facet joint arthritis. As discs between the vertebrae become thinner, more pressure is transferred to the facet joints. This leads to more friction and more damage to the cartilage.

When these degenerative changes occur in the neck, this condition is called cervical spondylosis. Arthritis in the neck doesnt always cause pain, and many people have no noticeable symptoms.

You May Like: How Much Advil For Back Pain

Stomach And Back Pain: Common Causes Symptoms And Treatments

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Paris, D.C on Nov. 6, 2018.

Are you experiencing lower back pain that radiates to your abdominal area?

Stomach and back pain often go hand-in-hand. After all, they are two sides of the same coin.

Stomach pain is very common among people who suffer from chronic lower back pain.

Either your back and stomach pain have a single cause, or the two symptoms are unrelated.

So how are you supposed to tell the difference?

One clue is the timing of your symptoms.

If youve been experiencing back pain for years, but the pain only recently spread to your abdomen, it could be a cause for concern.

Sometimes pain in the back and stomach indicates a medical emergency. Other times, its a sign of a worsening back injury.

This article will give you a good overview of what could be causing your back and stomach pain, what you should do about it, and when you should start to worry.