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Osteoarthritis of the Spine
Arthritis DiagnosisSpinal arthritis is diagnosed through a physical exam. The doctor will look at and feel the patients spine. The doctor will look for any noticeable changes in the normal vertebral structure. They will check the range of motion and flexibility of the spine.If osteoarthritis of the spine is suspected, X-rays will be taken. These X-rays will show any changes in the vertebral bones. They will show any bone spur growth or narrowing of the intervertebral spaces. The doctor will perform neurological tests to determine if the bone spurs are causing any pinched nerves. The doctor will check for tingling or numbness. They will also test for decreased nerve signal by checking the muscle strength. If neurological symptoms are found, an MRI or CT Scan will usually be done to see the extent of the nerve involvement. This step is crucial to creating an effective plan for treatment. Recommendation for the Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis of the SpineIf your doctor tells you that you have spinal arthritis, tell that doctor,“I know already. It is normal for someone my age to have this condition.” Do not be intimidated by the diagnosis.
Fear
of this condition will just give it more power over you and your life. If symptoms are mild to moderate, relax. If you do not worry about them, they will most likely improve on their own or with mild
symptomatic treatment.
Do you know where it is? Hmmmm, me neither…
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