Degenerative & Arthritic

Spinal Osteoarthritis

Treating and Understanding Osteoarthritis of the Spine

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and occurs when the protective cartilage in joints wears down over time. In the spine, osteoarthritis often affects the facet joints and sometimes the sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.  At Desert Spine and Pain, we help patients across Phoenix and Arizona find clarity and relief from spinal osteoarthritis. Led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS, a nationally recognized neurosurgeon, our approach focuses on accurate diagnosis, conservative-first care, and minimally invasive procedures when necessary.

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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.

What Is Osteoarthritis of the Spine?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where cartilage gradually breaks down, exposing underlying bone. In the spine, this process can lead to:

  • Painful inflammation in the facet joints

  • Bone spur (osteophyte) formation

  • Stiffness and reduced flexibility

  • Nerve compression if bone spurs narrow the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Aging – The biggest risk factor

  • Genetics – Family history of arthritis increases risk

  • Injury or trauma – Past injuries accelerate joint wear

  • Repetitive stress – Jobs or activities with heavy lifting, twisting, or bending

  • Obesity – Extra weight increases spinal load

  • Smoking – Reduces blood flow and slows cartilage repair

  • Sedentary lifestyle – Weak muscles provide less support to the spine

Symptoms of Spinal Osteoarthritis

  • Localized back or neck pain, often worse with activity

  • Morning stiffness that improves with movement

  • Pain aggravated by standing, walking, or twisting

  • Grinding or popping sensations in the spine

  • Radiating pain if nerves are irritated by bone spurs

  • Limited range of motion

Diagnosis

At Desert Spine and Pain, diagnosis of spinal osteoarthritis includes:

  1. History & physical exam – Understanding your pain triggers and functional limitations

  2. Imaging –

    • X-rays show cartilage loss, bone spurs, and narrowing of joint spaces

    • MRI evaluates soft tissues, discs, and nerves

    • CT scans provide detailed bone images when needed

  3. Diagnostic injections – Facet joint blocks may be used to confirm arthritis as the pain source

Treatment Options

Conservative Care

  • Medications (anti-inflammatories, pain relievers)

  • Physical Therapy to improve posture, strength, and mobility

  • Ergonomic and lifestyle modifications (weight loss, quitting smoking, improving workstation setup)

  • Heat, ice, and massage for symptom relief

Interventional Pain Management

  • Facet joint injections to reduce inflammation

  • Medial branch blocks to diagnose and treat facet joint pain

  • Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to disable pain nerves for months of relief

  • Epidural Steroid Injections if nerve irritation is present

Surgical Options

If arthritis causes severe stenosis, deformity, or instability, surgery may be needed:

  • Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) – Smaller incisions and faster recovery

  • Laminectomy / Foraminotomy – To relieve pressure on nerves

  • Spinal Fusion – For advanced arthritis with instability

Recovery Timeline

  • Conservative care – Relief often improves within weeks to months

  • Injections – Relief may last 6–12 months and can be repeated

  • Surgery – Recovery varies: MIS procedures may allow activity in weeks, while fusion requires several months

Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?

  • Nationally recognized neurosurgeon – Dr. Greenwald specializes in advanced spine arthritis care

  • Conservative-first philosophy – Surgery is reserved for severe cases only

  • Comprehensive care – PT, injections, MIS, and fusion available under one roof

  • Compassionate care – We help patients feel reassured at every step

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is osteoarthritis the same as degenerative joint disease (DJD)?

Yes. DJD is another term for osteoarthritis, describing the same degenerative process.

Does everyone develop spinal osteoarthritis with age?

Most people have some arthritis changes on imaging by age 60, but not everyone develops symptoms.

What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is caused by wear-and-tear changes. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease.

Does spinal osteoarthritis always need surgery?

No. Most patients improve with conservative and interventional treatments. Surgery is only for severe cases.

How does Desert Spine and Pain treat osteoarthritis differently?

We combine precise diagnostics, conservative-first care, and advanced minimally invasive surgery under Dr. Greenwald’s expertise.

Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD

Neuro-Spine Surgeon

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Phone: (602) 566-9500

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Phoenix, AZ, USA

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If spinal osteoarthritis is limiting your movement or affecting your quality of life, Dr. Greenwald and his experienced team are here to help. We’ll take the time to understand your symptoms, explain your options, and design a treatment plan that fits your unique needs. Every step you take toward spine health brings you closer to lasting relief and greater mobility. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a stronger, more comfortable future.

Voted Best Spine Doctor

Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.

Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine

Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon with specialized expertise in treating spinal osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that occurs when the cartilage between the spinal joints wears down over time. This can lead to inflammation, stiffness, nerve compression, and chronic back or neck pain. Dr. Greenwald takes a comprehensive and personalized approach to care, beginning with advanced diagnostic imaging to pinpoint the source of pain and developing a tailored plan that may include physical therapy, targeted injections, or minimally invasive surgical options when necessary. His goal is to relieve pain, restore motion, and help patients throughout South Florida return to their daily activities with comfort and confidence.

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