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Arthritis Lumbar Spine
The lumbar portion of the back includes vertebrae L1-L5 and is more commonly known as simply the lower back. Arthritis in the lumbar spine refers to the degeneration of this area, specifically the cartilage and joints that allow for movement in the spine.
Risk factors for arthritis in the lumbar spine include:
- Obesity - Even just a few extra pounds increases the load that the lumbar spine has to bear, thereby creating more wear and tear and accelerating the degeneration caused by arthritis.
- Age - Over time, the cartilage in our body loses water and becomes more brittle, making it more susceptible to damage.
- Career - Physically demanding jobs, such as those in the construction industry, can put excess strain on the joints in the lumbar region of the back and put them at greater risk of injury or deterioration.
Symptoms of Arthritis in the Lumbar Spine
Arthritis of the spine can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, tingling, muscle spasms, and more. Arthritis in the lumbar spine produces symptoms in the:
- Lower back
- Buttocks
- Thighs
- Calves
- Feet
Managing Arthritis of the Lumbar Spine Symptoms
Symptoms from arthritis in the lumbar spine can be reduced with:
- Prescription and OTC pain medication
- Spinal steroid injections
- Hot and cold compresses
- Rest
- Exercise - strength training
- Physical therapy
- Stretching
For a minority of people, these techniques will not be enough to relieve them of arthritis symptoms, and surgery may be recommended as a final option. In this case, minimally invasive procedures are a proven alternative to open back and neck surgeries.
If you’d like to learn more about endoscopic spine surgery for symptoms of arthritis in the lumbar spine, or to request a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan by one of our doctors, contact Laser Spine Institute.