Final answer:
Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects the cervical spine and can cause joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness. RA is often diagnosed through physical exam, X-ray and MRI imaging, and blood tests. Treatment focuses on symptom alleviation and disease management.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that not only affects the joints but can also have systemic implications. Within the spine, RA typically impacts the cervical spine, which is comprised of the seven vertebrae beneath the skull. The synovial membrane and the joint capsule become inflamed, leading to cartilage destruction and thereby inducing pain and stiffness in the affected spinal regions. RA is most prevalent among women, especially those post-menopausal, with a common onset age between 40 to 50 years.
The overall management of RA involves medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery with the goal to alleviate symptoms. Since RA is a progressive disease, early detection and treatment are crucial for reducing joint damage and maintaining joint function. Tools for diagnosis include symptoms observation, X-ray and MRI imaging, blood tests, and specialized imaging such as arthrography that can reveal early degenerative changes in joint cartilage.