Doc, I was told that I have arthritis in my neck and lower back. Is it genetic or is it just aging?

This is a very common question I hear nearly daily. Some people may have a genetic disposition to Osteoarthirits (OA). Nevertheless, since we can’t change our genes or age, let’s focus on what we can change.

OA is most common in weight bearing joints, such as knees, hips and the spine. OA is also seen frequently in the shoulders and hands, with overuse and repetitive movements. It is common in the first toe (bunion) as well.

With OA in the knees, we may see swelling in the knees. With OA in the hands, we may see nodules in the fingers. OA in the spine may show with poor posture, such as forward head posture and poor sitting posture habits. Some people with OA in the spine may have…