Arthritis of the lumbar spine

Many types of arthritis can disturb the normal lumbar anatomy. This review intentionally omits many endocrine, metabolic, and genetic disorders that ultimately lead to breakdown of cartilage. Osteoarthritis remains the most common cause of sustained back pain as well as one of the most compensable disabilities in the United States. As so many other authors have noted, more scientific investigation is needed, and funding is imperative to effect significant changes.