A Neck Specialist for Arthritis

Cervical spondylosis, or osteoarthritis of the neck, is a degenerative condition caused primarily by aging. Generally, the beginning stages of arthritis in the neck are seen around the age of 40 with bone spurs forming and eventually causing pain and pressure on spinal nerves, in some cases on the spinal cord itself. Wear and tear to the discs and joints as well as calcium buildup can also lead to arthritis in the neck. The onset of cervical spondylosis may be reported at an earlier age if previous spinal injury has taken place, if a patient is a heavy smoker or because of hereditary or congenital factors. The symptoms of cervical spondylosis include progressive neck stiffness, radiating pain into the shoulders and arms, and muscle weakness that affects the shoulders, arms and hands.

Treatment

While cervical spondylosis cannot be reversed, seeking a neck specialist for arthritis is recommended to slow the process while also providing a variable amount of pain relief and exercises to maintain range of motion. Seeking care from a chiropractic physician should occur when pain from arthritis is worsening or marked weakness is noted. X-rays are generally taken to provide information as to the curvature of the cervical spine as well as any narrowing of the disc spaces that may be present. Bone spurs will be seen on x-ray. Conservative treatment generally includes physical therapy exercises, traction, chiropractic manipulation, massage therapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation and acupuncture. As stated previously, any form of treatment will not reverse arthritis but can offer a patient maximum pain relief and an increased amount of cervical range of motion. 

References Cited in this Article

www.about.com

www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com

www.aaos.org