'Degenerative changes' in the spine: Is this arthritis?

My doctor says I have "degenerative changes" in my spine. Does this mean I have arthritis?

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Mayo Clinic rheumatologist April Chang-Miller, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

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Osteoarthritic spine

Yes. The phrase "degenerative changes" in the spine refers to osteoarthritis of the spine. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Doctors may also refer to it as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease.

Osteoarthritis may affect any joint in your body. When it affects your back, it causes slow deterioration of the disks between the bones (vertebrae) in your spine. This results in narrowing of the spaces between the vertebrae. Bone spurs often form. When bone surfaces rub together, the vertebral joints (facets) and areas around the cartilage become inflamed and painful. Gradually, your spine stiffens and loses flexibility. Once these changes appear on X-rays, osteoarthritis has already started.

If you have osteoarthritis, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment and pain management plan, which may include exercise, medications and measures to protect your joints. Your doctor may also refer you to a rheumatologist, physical therapist or orthopedic surgeon.