What can be done about arthritis in the lower back?

Identify the cause: Many options are available but the first thing is to identify the cause of the back pain. The cause will then dictate the most appropriate treatment. See a rheumatologist.

Depends: On where it is and how bad it is. There are some awesome new techniques that involve radiology that can lift flattened discs, cortisone shots still help a lot for people who have pinched nerves and narrowing of the openings they travel in. Physical therapy is usually the first step and exercise is still great. Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Ibuprofen might help too.

You must rule out...: You must rule out spondylitis at your age! it is quite common and may affect 2% of your population. It is treated with sulfasalazine, methotrexate, leflunomide, and the tnf-alpha inhibitors which are biologics. An x-ray of your pelvis is most important first start, with a blood test called crp!