Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic back and neck pain, especially as people get older. When osteoarthritis affects the spine, it can lead to stiffness, inflammation, and nerve compression that make everyday activities more difficult. If your symptoms are interfering with your quality of life, seeing a Spine Specialist can help you better understand the cause of your pain and explore treatment options.
At Nadora Healthcare, Dr. K. Soraya Heidari is a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon who specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of spinal conditions, including spinal osteoarthritis. She works closely with each patient to create an individualized treatment plan focused on reducing pain, improving mobility, and helping patients return to the activities they enjoy.
What Is Spinal Osteoarthritis?
Spinal osteoarthritis, sometimes called degenerative arthritis of the spine, occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints between the vertebrae gradually wears away. As the protective cartilage deteriorates, the joints become inflamed and painful. Over time, bone spurs may develop, and the narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve openings can place pressure on nearby nerves.
Although spinal osteoarthritis is often associated with aging, previous injuries, repetitive stress, genetics, and excess body weight may also contribute to its development.
Common symptoms include:
- Chronic neck or back pain
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- Pain that worsens with prolonged standing or walking
- Reduced flexibility
- Muscle spasms
- Pain that radiates into the arms or legs
- Numbness or tingling if nerves become compressed
Because these symptoms can also be caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other spinal conditions, an evaluation by a Spine Specialist is important for obtaining an accurate diagnosis.
Why Choose Dr. K. Soraya Heidari?
Dr. K. Soraya Heidari is a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon at Nadora Healthcare with advanced training in both nonsurgical and surgical treatment of spinal disorders. She understands that every patient’s symptoms and goals are unique and takes a personalized approach to care.
During your evaluation, Dr. Heidari will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, perform a comprehensive physical examination, and may recommend imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. These diagnostic tools help determine the severity of arthritis, evaluate spinal alignment, and identify whether nerve compression is contributing to your symptoms.
As an experienced Spine Specialist, Dr. Heidari believes that patient education is an important part of successful treatment. She takes time to explain your diagnosis and discuss all available treatment options so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Treatment Options for Spinal Osteoarthritis
Many patients with spinal osteoarthritis are able to manage their symptoms without surgery. Conservative treatment is typically the first step and may include:
- Physical therapy
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Activity modification
- Weight management when appropriate
- Epidural steroid injections or other spine injections
These treatments are designed to reduce inflammation, improve flexibility, strengthen the muscles that support the spine, and relieve pressure on irritated nerves.
If conservative treatment does not provide sufficient relief or if significant nerve compression develops, surgical treatment may be considered. Depending on the severity of the condition, surgery may focus on relieving pressure on the spinal nerves, stabilizing the spine, or addressing other structural problems contributing to pain.
Dr. Heidari carefully evaluates each patient before recommending surgery and discusses the expected benefits, potential risks, recovery process, and rehabilitation plan to ensure patients understand what to expect.
When to See a Spine Specialist
Persistent neck or back pain should not be dismissed as simply getting older. If your symptoms continue for several weeks, interfere with your ability to work or enjoy daily activities, or are accompanied by numbness, tingling, weakness, or balance problems, it may be time to schedule an evaluation.
Early diagnosis often provides more treatment options and may help prevent symptoms from becoming more severe. Whether conservative care or surgery is appropriate, having a personalized treatment plan can make a meaningful difference in your long-term comfort and function.
If you are experiencing symptoms of spinal osteoarthritis, Dr. K. Soraya Heidari at Nadora Healthcare may be able to help. As a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon and experienced Spine Specialist, she provides comprehensive evaluations and individualized treatment plans designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life. With compassionate, patient-centered care, Dr. Heidari is committed to helping patients find lasting relief and get back to doing the activities they love.
