What is Cervical Osteoarthritis?
Cervical spondylitis refers to degeneration in the first seven vertebrae (bones) of the spine, known as the cervical vertebrae or cervical spine. It is also known as cervical spondylosis and is most common in people who are above 65. The cervical spine supports the head and neck. It also protects the cervical spinal cord and nerve endings in them. The boney knobs going down the spine, form part of the vertebrae and are known as the spinous process. A facet joint links each vertebra together on either side of each spinous process and forms the spine. A smooth, rubbery layer of cartilage, separating the vertebra, forms the lining of the facet joints and allows smooth and painless movements. When this layer of cartilage breaks down and wears away, leading to bone grind on bone, the condition is called cervical osteoarthritis or spinal osteoarthritis. Painful bone spurs, called osteophytes, are formed in place of cartilage, in case of very severe conditions of cervical osteoarthritis.
What Causes Cervical Osteoarthritis?
Although there is no single cause of cervical OA, there are several factors like Gender, Age, Long-term, repetitive strain on the neck, being overweight, family history of osteoarthritis, and genetic defects that can increase the chances of developing it. For example, women are more prone to it. Increasing age, mainly after 65, long-term strain whether due to recreation or occupation, previous neck injuries, genetic defects in the cartilage, and poor posture are some of the other causes.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Osteoarthritis?
Pain in the neck, shoulder, and upper back are the most common symptoms of cervical osteoarthritis. Usually, the pain develops slowly over a period of time, though it can come suddenly as well. Stiffness or tenderness in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, reduced range of motion, headaches, pain during or after strenuous activity are all signs of it. Crepitus, a crunching, snapping, or clicking sound when turning the neck, or a hunched or slouched appearance are also symptoms. In more serious cases, the nerves in the spine can get compressed by bone spurs and exert pressure on the spinal cord, called cervical myelopathy. This leads to muscle spasms, weak grip, tingling, numbness, or weakness in shoulders, arms, hands, legs, or feet. Difficulty in walking, poor balance, dizziness, or lack of coordination and incontinence are also symptoms. Are you concerned about the symptoms of cervical osteoarthritis? Find a physiotherapist in your area and book an assessment.
How is Cervical Osteoarthritis Treated?
Treatment for cervical osteoarthritis typically consists of medications, physiotherapy, and surgery. Many medications have serious side effects, and surgery is often the last resort. Physiotherapy includes providing glucosamine supplement, generally found in the fluid around the joints, and is important for building cartilage. Medications consist of over-the-counter painkillers, like Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen, topical medications like gels, creams, patches, sprays, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Many of these drugs have side effects, like stroke, heart attack, kidney damage, stomach irritation, and bleeding, On the other hand, steroid injections cannot be continued for long. Although surgery is a last resort, if surgery becomes necessary, physiotherapy becomes an important part of rehabilitation.
Are you looking for physiotherapy or a Chiropractor? If Yes, then visit Simply Align Rehab Physio in Scarborough/Toronto or Woodbridge/Vaughan or you can always call or text us for your Physiotherapy or Chiropractor needs in Toronto at (416) 438-3230 or For Physiotherapy or Chiropractor need in Vaughan (Woodbridge) at (905) 638-9840.
Physiotherapy for Cervical Osteoarthritis is a non-surgical and drug-free treatment. The primary purpose of physiotherapy is to prevent the progression of arthritis, reduce pain, increase joint mobility, function, regain strength, and improve quality of life. It is proven to reduce arthritis pain. Physiotherapy is again based on individual requirements. It may include a range of motion exercises, stretching, strengthening, activity modification, and functional retraining. To add support and absorb the shock from routine activities, it includes bracing orthotics and hydrotherapy. Patient education helps with relaxation and coping strategies and enables one to feel in control. Postural education and cross-disciplinary pain-relieving therapies consist of Interferential current therapy (IFC) or TENS therapy, Manual Therapy, Therapeutic Ultrasound, Heat and cold therapy, Massage therapy, Occupational therapy, and Acupuncture. At our clinic we have notice by using Simply Align Technique which includes advance physical modalities, activity modification and specific exercises we have faster, longer lasting results with reduced healing time. In the video below you can see our treatment with use of Tecar, shockwave and laser therapy available at both of our locations in Vaughn and Toronto.
Can Cervical Osteoarthritis go away by itself?
No, cervical osteoarthritis cannot go away by itself. However, it can be prevented or delayed with proper treatment. Some things that can help prevent cervical osteoarthritis are minimizing activities that put pressure on the neck, applying heat and cold therapy, using a supportive mattress and pillow, and wearing an assistive device like a neck brace.
Can You Prevent Cervical Osteoarthritis?
Yes. Cervical Osteoarthritis can be prevented by including certain activities in the daily routine. For example, regular exercise, particularly doing stretching exercises like yoga or tai chi for 30 minutes a day, taking a non-inflammatory diet, avoiding refined and processed food and sugar, maintaining a healthy weight and good posture.
