Arthritis is one of the most common causes of back pain. Arthritis of the spine is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage between the aligning facet joints in the spine. These joints become inflamed and progressive joint degeneration leads to more friction. One result of this is that back motion and flexibility decrease. Bone spurs may also develop as a result of joint instability. These spurs may develop to the point of aggravating the nerves that pass through the spine.

Osteoarthritis of the spine is classified as being either lumbar spine osteoarthritis or cervical spine (neck) osteoarthritis. Lumbar spine osteoarthritis causes pain in the lower spine and sacroiliac joint. Cervical spine osteoarthritis affects the upper spine, neck, shoulders, arms and head.

Repetitive trauma to the spine due to repetitive strains can lead to arthritis of the spine. Other causal factors are age, gender (more common in post-menopausal women), obesity, genetics and the presence of associated diseases, such as diabetes or gout.

The key to effectively living with spinal osteoarthritis is to get an accurate diagnosis and start early with proactive treatment. Treatments focus on pain reduction and the maintenance of joint mobility and flexibility.