Arthritis describes a group of more than 100 diseases that cause tenderness, stiffness of the joints, swelling, abnormalities in the soft tissue and pain. And osteoarthritis of the spine is one of the leading forms of arthritis. Isn't it time you understood?

With more than 50 million Americans suffering from some form of arthritis it has become one of the most common causes of physical disabilities.

Arthros means joint and it is means inflammation. Osteo which means bones and applies mostly to the weight bearing joints like hips, knees, and spine.

Joints are covered by cartilage which is lubricated with a synovial fluid. This makes the joint move easier but when the cartilage becomes worn and the fluid becomes thin so that the joint bones begin to rub.

The spine is a load bearing joint and over the years becomes worn. In fact it is the most common reason for back pain. Spinal arthritis is the result of the breakdown of the cartilage between the joints which become inflamed and cause friction. Back flexibility and mobility is reduced and over time bone spurs might even occur.

Osteoarthritis of the spine occurs in either the lower back or the neck area. The lower area which is called the lumbar supine causes stiffness and pain in the sacroiliac joint and lower spine.

The neck area can cause stiffness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and head, as well as the upper spine.

There are many reasons why you might develop osteoarthritis. Repetitive trauma to the spine can result in arthritis, as can sports injuries, surgery, poor posture, work activities, and a host of other reasons.

Your spine begins to age around the 30s and is often related to work. Post menopausal women over the age of 45 are most common and if you are overweight it can cause stress on the spine which leads to arthritis.

Genetics also plays a role in whether you will develop arthritis. And there are other diseases such as diabetes that can play a role in developing arthritis.

The actual cause of osteoarthritis remains unknown but it appears to be mostly due to aging which results in wear to the cartilage and synovial fluid. The joint that develops the osteo is often a joint that has been previously injured.

It's important that you become involved in your treatment. And there are plenty of treatment options. NSAIDs are commonly used to reduce inflammation and pain. Exercise, nutrition, and weight control are also very important.

There are plenty of different medications that can provide relief. Be sure to take medications as prescribed and never stop taking them without your doctor's direction.

Exercise regularly. When it comes to the spine one of the best methods of exercising is stretching and a light weight program which can help with flexibility and mobility by keeping the joint strong.

As we age osteoarthritis of the spine is common disease that one out of four people will suffer from. So do your homework and understand what you may be facing and how to best deal with it.