Spinal Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Spinal Arthritis?
Primary care doctors often manage spinal arthritis first and may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon, physical therapist, or pain specialist. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is spinal arthritis?
Spinal arthritis is the wearing down of the joints in the back. When the smooth covering on these joints wears away, the bones rub together, causing pain and stiffness.
Doctors call this spinal osteoarthritis, or spondylosis. It is most common in the neck and lower back and can lead to bone spurs, small growths that form as the body tries to repair the joint.
Symptoms
The main symptom is a dull ache or stiffness in the back or neck, often worse in the morning or after sitting. Pressure on a nerve can cause tingling, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.
Causes and who gets it
Age is the biggest cause, which is why it is most common after 50. Extra weight, spine injuries, heavy lifting, and genetic factors also raise the risk. Women are somewhat more likely than men to develop osteoarthritis.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor will ask about symptoms, examine your back, and test reflexes, strength, and sensation. An X-ray can show worn joints and bone spurs; an MRI can show discs and nerves.
Treatment
Most people do not need surgery. Treatment focuses on easing pain and keeping you moving: exercise, physical therapy, weight loss, and medicines such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs. Heat, stretching, massage, and steroid injections can also help.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if pain lasts more than a few weeks or keeps getting worse. Get care quickly for numbness or weakness in a limb, trouble walking, or loss of bladder or bowel control, which can signal serious nerve pressure.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance; a concierge doctor usually charges more and works alongside insurance. Either can handle most spinal arthritis care and will refer you to a specialist if needed.
Common questions
Is spinal arthritis the same as a slipped disc?
No. Spinal arthritis affects the small joints of the spine. A slipped disc is more accurately called a herniated disc. It happens when the cushion between the bones pushes out of place. The two problems can happen together, and both can press on nerves.
Can spinal arthritis be cured?
There is no cure for wear-and-tear arthritis, but most people can manage the pain well. Exercise, physical therapy, and medicine often help a lot. How much improvement a person gets varies from person to person.
Is exercise safe if I have spinal arthritis?
For most people, gentle exercise is one of the best things for spinal arthritis. Walking, swimming, and stretching keep the joints moving and the muscles strong. Ask a doctor before starting a new exercise plan. This is especially important if you have other health problems.
Will I need surgery?
Most people with spinal arthritis never need surgery. Doctors usually suggest it only when there is serious nerve pressure. It may also be suggested when other treatments have not helped. Your doctor can explain whether surgery makes sense for you.
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
