Nondiscrimination Policy Update

Boston Medical Center Health System complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency and primary language), religion, culture, physical or mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression. BMCHS provides free aids and services to people with disabilities and free language services to people whose primary language is not English.

To read our full Nondiscrimination Statement, click here.

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Spinal Arthritis

Spinal arthritis is a type of inflammation of the joints in the spine. It can occur anywhere along the spine, but is most common in the lower back and neck.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of spinal arthritis. This is causes by wear and tear on your spine. Other causes of spinal arthritis may include infections, genetics, or autoimmune disorders, although often the cause is unknown.

Your age and being overweight or obese can increase your risk of spinal arthritis.

Symptoms are different for each person, but may include:

  • Back and neck pain
  • Spinal stiffness
  • Swelling and tenderness over the spine
  • Headaches
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • A grinding feeling when moving your spine
  • Pain or numbness in your arms and legs

Treatment includes:

  • Pain medications
  • Physical therapy
  • Steroid injections
  • Surgery, in severe cases

Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

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Neurosurgery

We provide comprehensive surgical treatment of the spine for trauma, degenerative conditions, congenital problems, and more. Our surgeons are experts in minimally invasive surgica…
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Orthopedic Surgery

We provide comprehensive orthopedic care for acute and chronic conditions to help you get back to the activities you love.
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Spine Surgery

BMC’s spine surgery program provides great expertise, cutting edge techniques, and a dedicated team, with spine surgeons who have developed and perfected new techniques and have c…
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Neurosurgical Spine Surgery

We provide comprehensive surgical treatment for all spine-related conditions, including less invasive surgical techniques that lead to faster recovery times and reduced pain.