Vertebral Arthritis Risk Factors

To prevent a disease, it is important to identify risk factors. Knowing vertebral arthritis risk factors enables you to take preventive measures and live a long, symptom-free life. Of course, it is important to see a spine specialist at the first sign of symptoms.

At the Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics, our Spine Specialists use the latest technology to properly diagnose and provide a customized treatment option. Not doing so can make symptoms and arthritis worse.

Symptoms

Vertebral arthritis may present in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back) and lumbar (lower back) spine regions. Symptoms include:

· Difficulty sitting, standing or bearing weight
· Sciatica
· Spine and/or extremity pain
· Stiffness
· Swelling

Risk Factor #1: Weight

Because excess weight puts pressure on the spine, it is harder for overweight and obese persons to maintain proper posture and perform physical activities. Spine anatomy can possibly be altered, and discs and soft tissues can possibly be damaged.

The best preventative measure patients can take is monitoring their weight and if necessary, slowly lose it. It is a good idea to weight oneself 2-3 times a week. Weight fluctuations are normal; however, steadily increasing weight is a sign that a change in diet and exercise should be made. A physical therapist, personal trainer and nutritionist can be consulted if help is needed.

Risk Factor #2: Injury

A spine injury can cause early onset or posttraumatic arthritis. Accidents, sports and heavy lifting are common injury causes. It is always best to take proper precautions when driving an automobile or motorcycle and working from elevated areas.

Sports and physical activities should be performed using proper techniques. Heavy objects should not be lifted without help and large loads should be moved one object at a time. If necessary, an assistive brace can be worn.

Risk Factor #3: Age

Arthritis symptoms usually present around the age of 45. Recognizing and properly treating symptoms helps them quickly go away and prevents arthritis severity from increasing. Rest, activity modification, ice and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications are readily available and easy-to-use treatment options.

If symptoms do not respond to these treatment options, an appointment with an Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics Spine Specialist should be made.

Making an Appointment

At the Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics, our highly trained Spine Specialists Dr. Ramil Bhatnager, Dr. Joel Goldstein and Dr. Michael Lospinuso are experts in vertebral arthritis. If you are having symptoms of a vertebral arthritis, we encourage you to contact our office to make an appointment at our convenient locations in Wall, Toms River, Freehold, Red Bank and coming soon to Edison.