- Neck arthritis can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and tingling or weakness in the arms and hands.
- It becomes more common with age, but previous neck injuries, repetitive movements, and genetic factors may also increase the risk.
- Treatment may include physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgery in severe cases.
Neck arthritis, also known as cervical spondylosis, is a condition involving wear and tear of the disks, vertebrae, and joints in the cervical spine. It can cause symptoms such as neck pain, stiffness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands.
Neck arthritis becomes more common with age as degenerative changes develop in the cervical spine. Previous neck injuries, repetitive or awkward neck movements, and genetic factors may also increase the risk.
Treatment for neck arthritis depends on the severity of the symptoms. It may include medications to relieve pain, physical therapy, and, in more severe cases, surgery.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of neck arthritis include:
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Neck pain that gets worse with movement
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Difficulty turning the neck from side to side or moving the head up and down
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A grinding or grating sensation in the neck when moving it
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Numbness or tingling in the neck, shoulders, or arms
Symptoms of neck arthritis can develop as the cervical spine degenerates and inflammation occurs in the affected area. In some cases, neck pain may radiate to the shoulders, arms, or hands.
If symptoms of neck arthritis develop, a healthcare provider should be consulted to confirm the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Confirming a diagnosis
Neck arthritis is diagnosed by a healthcare provider based on symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination.
Imaging tests such as a cervical spine X-ray, MRI, or CT scan may be ordered to evaluate changes in the cervical spine and help confirm the diagnosis.
In some cases, electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies may also be ordered, particularly when nerve compression is suspected. These tests evaluate electrical activity in the muscles and nerves and can measure the strength and speed of nerve signals.
Possible causes
Neck arthritis is mainly caused by age-related wear and tear of the cervical spine. Changes that may occur include:
- Degeneration of the intervertebral discs in the neck
- Wear and tear of the joints in the cervical spine
- Formation of bone spurs
Factors that may increase the risk of neck arthritis include older age, previous neck injuries, jobs or activities that involve repetitive neck movements or awkward neck positions, and genetic factors.
Treatment options
Treatment for neck arthritis should be guided by a healthcare provider based on the severity of symptoms and the person's overall health.
The main treatments for neck arthritis include:
1. Physical therapy
Physical therapy is an important part of neck arthritis treatment because it can help reduce pain and stiffness and improve neck movement.
Physical therapy may include stretching and strengthening exercises, mobility exercises, and, in some cases, treatments such as traction or other therapeutic modalities.
A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles of the neck and shoulders, improve mobility, and help reduce postural strain that may worsen symptoms.
2. Medications
A healthcare provider may recommend or prescribe medications to help relieve neck pain or nerve pain associated with neck arthritis.
The main medications that may be used include:
- Pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen
- Muscle relaxants, such as cyclobenzaprine
- Antidepressants, such as duloxetine or amitriptyline
- Anti-seizure medications used for nerve pain, such as gabapentin or pregabalin
For severe pain that does not improve with other treatments, a doctor may sometimes prescribe an opioid. If opioids are used, they are generally prescribed for a short period because of the risk of side effects and dependence.
3. Cervical collar
A doctor may recommend wearing a soft cervical collar for a short period of time to help relieve neck pain and muscle spasms. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a soft cervical collar should only be worn for a short period because prolonged use may reduce the strength of the neck muscles.
Using a supportive pillow that keeps the neck in a comfortable position may also help reduce discomfort during sleep.
4. Corticosteroid injections
A doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to help relieve neck, arm, or shoulder pain associated with neck arthritis.
Depending on the source of the pain, the injection may be given into a facet joint, near an affected nerve, or into the epidural space. Epidural corticosteroid injections are used off-label in the United States and should be performed by an appropriately trained healthcare professional.
5. Surgery
Surgery for neck arthritis may be recommended in severe cases, particularly when there is significant pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. Surgery may involve decompressing the affected nerves or spinal cord and, in some cases, fusing two or more cervical vertebrae.
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, surgery may be considered when conservative treatment does not provide relief or when neurological symptoms, such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty with balance or walking, are progressing.