You have likely heard of the term “arthritis” before. Maybe your initial reaction to this condition is the one that occurs in the wrists. Neck arthritis is a similar condition, but hence its name, it occurs in the neck. There are many other names for neck arthritis, including: cervical facet joint osteoarthritis, cervical spondylosis, degenerative joint disease, and cervical osteoarthritis.
In your neck, each facet joint is lined with cartilage. The facet joint is surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid. This fluid helps lubricate the joint and also enables smooth movements.
If the cartilage in the neck begins to creak down or degenerate, cervical facet osteoarthritis can occur. This is due to the bone-to-bone friction within the facet joint. As the friction increases, so does the chances for developing bone spurs. These spurs can press on the nerve root within the neck, leading to pain, tingling, and weakness.
It is also not uncommon to experience headaches and pain in your back, shoulders, between your shoulder blades, or in your neck as a result of these bone spurs.
If you begin noticing symptoms of cervical osteoarthritis, consider seeking help and getting a diagnosis as soon as possible. In many cases, the symptoms can be managed through non-surgical options, such as through stretching or physical therapy.
For help managing your pain, whether you are dealing with cervical osteoarthritis or another condition, consider finding a chiropractor in Vancouver WA who will look at every aspect of who you are as they determine a treatment plan. At A Family and Sports Chiropractic Clinic, we can help you get to the bottom of your pain. Click here to contact us today!