Arthritis can commonly affect the neck but when it does it is more commonly known as cervical spondylosis. Neck arthritis generally starts sometime after age 40 and only progresses with age. Women tend to develop the condition a little bit later than men but it is still unsure why. This article will inform you of the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment of neck arthritis or cervical spondylosis.
There are several causes of cervical spondylosis or neck arthritis; it is often developed by people who professionalize in the following fields: Gymnastics, Dancing, Sports such as Hockey and Football, and Surfing. Other relative causes are genetics and being born with a narrower spine than normal, which is a defect that can also be caused by age. In the case of spinal defect, the spinal cord ends up having a much smaller area to occupy than that which is needed and both congenital and age related defects can cause similar effects. Smoking can also play a role in this degenerative disease and can be considered a major risk factor. Injury such as punches to the forehead or car accidents that jolt the head forewords are also predisposing causes of neck arthritis.
The symptoms of neck arthritis can be very painful and restrictive to the individual affected. Some of these symptoms include: stiffness of the neck, pain that radiates to the lower area of the skull or down the arm, feeling off balance, weakness in the muscles of the neck, unstable gait, and a dull ache.
Seeking treatment for neck arthritis is very important as it can help with pain reduction as well as improve the functional ability for every day living. Treatments can include medication, traction or injections, physical therapy, immobilization with a neck brace, and surgery for the more severe instances. The patient and physician should discuss all options extensively to determine what would best fit the needs of the patient.
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Arthritis in The Neck