Neck pain can be challenging, especially when arthritis is the cause. Arthritis in the neck, also known as cervical osteoarthritis, affects millions.
By understanding this condition and exploring treatment options, you can take steps toward relief and a better quality of life.
This blog will guide you through arthritis in the neck, its causes, symptoms, and effective treatments so you can make informed decisions about managing this condition.
Arthritis: What Is It
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints. When it affects your neck, this is called cervical osteoarthritis (or cervical spondylosis), a form of osteoarthritis.
Over time, the cartilage that cushions the bones in your neck wears down. This affects how your neck moves and can cause stiffness, pain, and other symptoms.
Common Causes of Neck Arthritis
Here are the top causes of neck arthritis.
Age
The risk of arthritis in the neck increases as you get older. Wear and tear from everyday life is a leading factor.
Repetitive Movements
Jobs or habits that strain the neck over a long period can lead to arthritis.
Genetic Factors
A family history of arthritis may increase your chances of developing the condition.
Previous Neck Injuries
Past trauma to the neck could lead to long-term joint inflammation.
How Does Arthritis in the Neck Feel
Understanding the manifestations of osteoarthritis in the neck helps you identify the condition early. Some of the most common symptoms include the following.
Pain and Stiffness
Persistent discomfort or limited mobility in the neck area that often worsens after sleeping or periods of inactivity.
Grinding Sensations
You may feel a grinding or cracking sound when you turn your neck.
Headaches
Pain may radiate from the neck to the back of the head.
Weakness or Numbness
Some people experience numbness or tingling in the arms or hands, which may indicate nerve involvement.
Muscle Spasms
Tightening of neck muscles can lead to additional discomfort.
Treatments for Arthritis in the Neck
There are several effective treatments for arthritis in the neck in managing arthritis in the neck. These treatments range from non-invasive methods to surgical solutions, depending on your condition’s severity.
Below are the most common treatment approaches.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often the first approach recommended by specialists. A physical therapist can teach you neck exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting your neck.
Stretching exercises can also help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Medications
Several medications can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) are often recommended.
- Prescription Medications: Your doctor may suggest corticosteroid injections or stronger painkillers if OTC medications are insufficient.
- Muscle Relaxers: These are sometimes prescribed if muscle spasms accompany neck arthritis.
Pain Management Techniques
Pain management can provide relief for neck arthritis, helping to ease discomfort and improve mobility with minimal downtime. Common techniques include the following.
- Nerve Blocks: Injections to block pain signals caused by arthritis.
- Epidural Injections: Reduce inflammation and pressure near the spinal cord.
- Facet Injections: Target inflamed spinal joints to relieve arthritis pain.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses heat to disrupt pain signals from arthritic neck joints.
Lifestyle Changes
Making small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. For instance, improving your posture during daily activities, such as working at a desk, can reduce strain on your neck.
Regular exercise, especially low-impact activities like swimming or yoga, strengthens your muscles and boosts flexibility.
Surgery
Surgical treatments for arthritis in the neck may be considered when other options, like physical therapy, medication, or injections, fail to provide relief. Common surgical procedures include the following.
- Decompression Surgery: Removing bone spurs or other structures pressing on nerves to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
- Cervical Fusion: Joining two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and reduce pain caused by movement.
- Disc Replacement: Replacing a damaged disc with an artificial one to maintain flexibility and relieve symptoms.
These surgeries are tailored to the individual’s condition and are only recommended after a thorough evaluation.
Treatment for Arthritis in Neck in Rochester Hills, Michigan
Arthritis in the neck can disrupt your life, but you do not have to face it alone. From physical therapy to advanced surgical care, there are treatments to meet your needs.
At Ahlgren Spine, we understand the toll arthritis pain can take. Our expert team, led by board-certified Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren, is here to provide compassionate and personalized care for every patient. Our team will assess your condition and provide you with a detailed, effective treatment plan for neck arthritis.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with our orthopedic doctor, call us today at (248) 215-8080 or use our convenient appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
