Neck Ache Neck arthritis is more commonly known as Cervical Spondylosis. It is a degenerative arthritis of the upper (cervical) part of the spine. The cause is generally age related wear and tear of the vertebrae and discs in the neck, although it can also be brought on by excessive and prolonged strain on the area, such as in jobs requiring much manual handling or certain sports. The discs in the neck become thinner as we age, and the vertebrae can develop rough areas of bone on the edges. These can cause irritation to the nearby nerves and ligaments.

We all undergo these changes to some extent, but Cervical Spondylosis is diagnosed when the degeneration is severe or having a greater impact than expected for an individual’s age.

Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis Symptoms include pain in the neck area, which movement can make worse. This can spread up to the base of the skull or down to the shoulders. It can also spread down the arm to the hands, if the nerve is irritated. The pain can come and go, and vary in severity, although some people experience persistent or chronic pain. The pain can be brought on by a sudden jolt, or twisting movement.

Stiffness in the neck, especially first thing in the morning after a night’s sleep.

Occasional headaches, often starting at the back of the head and spreading to the forehead.
Some people can experience pins and needles sensation or numbness in the arms or hands. This could indicate a trapped nerve.

Treatment You should try to keep the neck moving normally if you can, so try to continue with your usual routines (unless they are exacerbation the problem). If the pain is severe, then a neck collar may be used, although this is no longer recommended for long periods as it can cause the neck to stiffen.

Painkillers may prove beneficial when symptoms flare up. Some find paracetamol is often sufficient to manage the pain, whereas anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac work better for some. For severe pain, a stronger painkiller such as Codeine may be prescribed, this can also be taken in addition to paracetamol.

A muscle relaxant such as Diazepam may be prescribed during a flare up if the neck muscles become tense and exacerbate the pain.

Physiotherapy may also be an option, and a physiotherapist will also be able to give advice on suitable neck exercises.

Other ways of managing the condition are to try to maintain a good posture at all times, and don’t slump when you are sitting down. Use a firm pillow for support whilst sleeping.

In the most extreme cases, such as those accompanied by severe prolonged nerve pain with weakness, or serious weakness and loss of feeling in the legs, then surgery may be an option. This usually involves a Laminectomy, when bone is removed to reduce the pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

Images courtesy of Free Digital Photos andFree Images.

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