Id like to know a straight answer to a question i have. my boyfriend is 27 with a small amount of arthritis in his spine. what will happen when hes 50? is it going to keep getting worse where something bad happens?

Over time, most humans develop wear and tear arthritic degeneration, which is often not noticeable. Mild early changes in late twenties suggest a genetic susceptibility, perhaps, but does not predict further disability. Unless he has inflammatory arthritis, would not expect significant progression. An exercise program from your doctor's office could help stabilize over the years.

The future depends on the type of arthritis. If it is spondylosis (wear of the bones and cartilage) detected on a X-ray and there are no symptoms, it may not cause anything more than minor symptoms if he takes care of himself. If it is ankylosing spondylitis (an inflammatory autoimmune condition), he will need prompt treatment now to prevent disability. In any case, he needs a definitive diagnosis