Like many other joints throughout the human body,<unk> s can experience natural degeneration from normal aging. Over time, the cartilage within the joints can naturally begin to wear out, allowing it to become thin or disappear entirely which, in turn, allows the conjoining vertebrae to rub directly against one another with little or no lubricant or separation. A result of this rubbing is often swelling, inflammation causing pain. Over time, the body will naturally respond to the instability within the spine by developing bone spurs, thickened ligaments or even synovial cysts that contact nerve roots exiting the spinal column. While primarily caused through natural wear and tear and degeneration,<unk>  can also occur as a result of injury to the spine, or lifestyle choices. These causes can include: * Osteoarthritis * Spondylolisthesis * Obesity * Smoking * Malnutrition * Trauma such as a car accident, fall or sports injury. * Lack of physical exercise or daily activity (questionably)
Facet syndrome
Back strain
Medial knee injuries
Milwaukee shoulder syndrome
Löfgren syndrome
Fibrous ankylosis
Heel pad syndrome
Failed back syndrome