TeenHealthFX - Answers - Puzzled About Arthritus

Diseases, Conditions & Concerns / Question
Published: August 28, 2000

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I am 23 years old and would like to know some information about arthritis in my lumbar spine, what could cause it and what can I do to fix it?

Signed: Puzzled About Arthritus

Dear Puzzled About Arthritus,

Arthritis is a common cause of pain for both young and old people. It can be frustrating and very painful, TeenHealthFX is glad to see that you are taking an interest in your illness and want to learn more about it. There are many different types of arthritis and each one has a variety of causes.

It is unclear from your question whether you have had any medical work-up for the condition. The specific type of arthritis and the treatment can only be determined through tests done by a doctor. For people living with arthritis, living the most active life with the least amount of pain, fatigue and disability involves becoming an active partner in your arthritis care. This means working with your doctor as well as learning how to manage your arthritis on a day-to-day basis.

You said that the arthritis you are suffering with is affecting your lower spine. There are three common types of arthritis that could be causing your pain. If your problem was acquired as a juvenile, it is most likely caused by Juvenille Spondyloarthropathy, which usually causes arthritis in the larger joints of the lower body parts (back, hips, & knees). It could also be Osteoarthritis, a very common form seen in all age groups. It is caused by the breakdown and inflammation of cartilage with eventual loss of the cartilage of the joints. Usually effects hands, feet, spine and large joints. A third type of arthritis affecting the spinal region is Ankylosing Spondylitis or spinal arthritis. This is a severe inflammatory arthritis causing immobility of the back and often the neck and shoulders. Research suggests that this is caused when a genetically predisposed person comes in contact with certain bacteria , viruses, and environmental factors.

You inquired about what may have caused you to develop arthritis. It is really hard to pinpoint the actual culprit. Conditions that often lead to forms of Osteoarthritis are:

Obesity
Repeated traumas or injury to a specific area
Surgery to a joint
Hormone disorders

A doctor would be better able to help you find what is causing your specific case of arthritis. For instance you may have repeatedly strained your lower back and in turn have developed arthritis.

Like most chronic conditions there is no quick fix for arthritis, but there are numerous doctors and treatments available to help you. Depending on the area affected by the arthritis usually determines the type of treatment. Some patients often see a Rheumatologist, joint specialist, an orthopedic surgeon and even physical therapists to help in their treatment.

The immediate goal of treatment for arthritis is to reduce inflammation and pain in order to prevent further damage to the joints. In order to do this, some doctors use NSAID's (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.

Drugs are not the only means of treating arthritis there are multiple things that need to be done. Some of the alternative treatments that have been successful are:

Muscle relaxation
Meditative Breathing and Guided Imagery (to help relieve pain)

Exercise is also a definite asset to those suffering with arthritis it helps to keep you mobile, the muscles strong and increase range of mobility. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet even though the pain may deter your appetite. A dietitian can be very helpful in these type of situations to make sure that your body receives all of its nutrients.

Arthritis can be frustrating and is known to make people feel depressed. Living in a constant state of pain can be discouraging. Keep your spirits positive and look into any kind of treatment you may need. If you ever feel that it is too much, do not be afraid to ask for help. If you would like more information on arthritis you can call Morristown Memorial Hospital's, Arthritis Help Information Hotline at (973) 971-6500.

Best of Luck and remember to take care of your body and remain positive!

Signed: TeenHealthFX