Spinal Arthritis / Bone Spurs

Spinal arthritis is a degenerative condition where the joints and discs of the spine wear down over time, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
As the spine degenerates, the body may respond by forming bone spurs (osteophytes) — small bony overgrowths that can crowd the space around the spinal cord or nerves.

While spinal arthritis is part of the natural aging process, it can become problematic when these changes compress nerves, causing pain or neurological symptoms in the neck, back, arms, or legs.

Spinal arthritis and bone spur formation develop gradually over time, often due to wear-and-tear, though certain factors can accelerate the process.

• Aging and degeneration: the most common cause as discs lose water content and joints weaken.
   
• Osteoarthritis: chronic inflammation breaks down cartilage in spinal joints.
   
• Repetitive stress: heavy lifting, twisting, or prolonged strain on the spine.
   
• Poor posture or ergonomics: long-term sitting or improper alignment places stress on the spine.
   
• Previous spine injuries or trauma: accelerate degenerative changes.
   
• Genetic predisposition: some people are more prone to early arthritis or bone spur formation.
   
• Lifestyle factors: smoking, obesity, and low physical activity can reduce spinal health.
  
   

Symptoms vary depending on where in the spine the arthritis or bone spurs are located and whether they are pressing on nerves.

• Neck or back pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
   
• Stiffness and reduced flexibility, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
   
• Radiating pain:
   
  • Cervical spine (neck): pain travels to the shoulders, arms, or hands.
     
  • Lumbar spine (lower back): pain radiates to the hips, buttocks, or legs (sciatica).
     
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
   
• Weakness in the limbs due to nerve compression.
   
• Grinding or popping sensations when moving the neck or back.
   
• Balance or coordination issues in more advanced cases.
   
• Severe or urgent symptoms: sudden bladder or bowel changes require immediate medical attention.

Dr. Fried uses a detailed diagnostic process to identify arthritis-related changes and determine whether bone spurs are compressing nerves.

• Medical history: review of symptoms, lifestyle factors, and prior spine injuries.
   
• Physical and neurological exam: checking strength, reflexes, sensation, and range of motion.
   
• Imaging studies:
   
  • X-rays: reveal bone spurs, joint space narrowing, and alignment issues.
     
  • MRI: provides detailed views of nerves, discs, and soft tissues.
     
  • CT scans: for precise bone evaluation, especially in surgical planning.
     
• Diagnostic injections: can help pinpoint which joint or nerve is the source of pain.
  
   

Treatment is tailored to reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent progression.
Dr. Fried begins with non-surgical care, turning to surgery only when conservative methods are not enough.