Arthritis can affect any part of the body, even the spine. It occurs when the cartilage in the joints is worn down as a result of wear and tear, aging, injury or misuse.

Symptoms:

• Back pain that comes and goes
• Spinal stiffness in the morning, such as after getting out of bed or after activity
• Pain, tenderness or numbness in the neck
• Lower back pain that runs down into the buttocks, thighs, or pelvic area
• Pain or tenderness in the shoulders, hips, knees or heels
• A crunching feeling or sound of bone rubbing on bone
• Weakness or numbness in legs or arms
• Limited range of motion, difficulty bending or walking
• Spinal deformity