Treating Cervical Osteoarthritis in Toronto or Vaughan
Cervical Osteoarthritis (OA) also known as Cervical Spondylosis or Neck Arthritis is the most common spine dysfunction in people over 65. Basically, it refers to the degeneration within the first seven vertebrae (bones) of your spine, called the cervical vertebrae or cervical spine. The cervical spine supports your head and neck and protects the cervical spinal cord and the nerve endings inside it.
A series of boney knobs that run down your spine are part of the vertebrae and are called the “spinous process.” A facet joint that connects each vertebra together on either side of each spinous process together forms the spine. Facet joints are lined with a smooth, rubbery layer of cartilage that separate the vertebra and allow their movements to be smooth and painless. When this layer of cartilage breaks down and wears away, causing bone to grind on bone, it is called Cervical OA which is a kind of spinal osteoarthritis. In severe cases, painful bone spurs called osteophytes can form in the place of cartilage.
What Causes Cervical Osteoarthritis?
Cervical OA may develop because of any of the following factors: Increasing age (especially over 65), Gender (women are more prone), Long-term, repetitive strain on the neck (occupational or recreational) Being overweight, Family history of osteoarthritis, Previous neck injuries, Genetic defects in the cartilage or neck and Poor posture.
What are its Signs and Symptoms?
Pain in the neck, shoulder and upper back is the most common symptom. Typically the pain develops slowly over time, but it can also appear suddenly. Stiffness or tenderness in the neck, shoulders and upper back, especially first thing in the morning or after periods of inactivity, Pain during or after strenuous activity, Decreased range of motion (difficulty turning or bending the neck), Headaches, a crunching, clicking, or snapping sound (known as crepitus) when turning the neck, a hunched or slouched appearance are the other symptoms. In severe cases of cervical OA, bone spurs can compress the nerves in the spine and put pressure on the spinal cord (cervical myelopathy) resulting in Muscle spasms, Weak grip, Tingling, numbness or weakness in the shoulders, arms, hands, legs or feet, Lack of coordination and difficulty walking (dizziness, poor balance) and Incontinence.
Can You Prevent Cervical Osteoarthritis?
Yes. Cervical OA can be prevented or at least chances of developing it are reduced by Exercising regularly for at least 30 minutes a day, performing stretching exercises such as yoga or tai chi, Eating a non-inflammatory diet (avoiding processed or refined foods and sugar), Maintaining a healthy weight and Practicing good posture.
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.
What is the treatment for Cervical Osteoarthritis?
Treatments for Cervical OA include medications, physiotherapy and surgery. Surgery is often a last resort and rare, while drugs carry serious side effects. Physiotherapy and Glucosamine supplement found naturally in the fluid around the joints are critical to building cartilage. Medications are usually painkillers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen and Topical medications include creams, sprays, gels or patches and Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs, however, can have serious side effects and lead to heart attack, stroke, stomach irritation and bleeding, and kidney damage. Steroid injections cannot be continued for long periods. Most cases are treated without surgery. If all other less invasive methods do not work, surgery becomes necessary and physiotherapy becomes an important part of rehabilitation.
Physiotherapy for Cervical Osteoarthritis in Toronto and Vaughan
Physiotherapy aims to prevent the progression of Cervical OA. It helps in reducing pain, regaining strength, increasing joint mobility, and improves the quality of life. It is also a drug-free and non-surgical treatment that helps reduce arthritis pain. Physiotherapy depends on the individual’s condition and includes Stability, stretching, strengthening, and a range of motion exercises. Postural education, activity modification and functional retraining can also help. Patient education that includes relaxation and coping strategies, makes the person feel in control of his or her condition.
Although there is no cure for cervical osteoarthritis, with proper treatment, progression of the disease can be delayed or even stopped. Patients with cervical osteoarthritis can make their daily living easier by Minimizing activities that put stress on the neck, Using a supportive pillow and mattress, Wearing an assistive device such as a neck brace and Applying heat and cold therapy.
Traditionally cross-disciplinary pain-relieving therapies like Interferential current therapy (IFC) or TENS therapy, Therapeutic ultrasound, Manual therapy, Heat and cold therapy, Acupuncture Massage therapy, Occupational therapy, and Chiropractic have assisted in slowing arthritis. At our clinic we have notice by using Simply Align Technique which includes advanced 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 unique approach to cervical osteoarthritis, which includes Tecar Radio Frequency, laser and shockwave therapy as well as pain free ROM exercises. All the above are available in both of our clinics in Toronto (Scarborough) and Vaughan (Woodbridge).
Worried about symptoms and treatment for Cervical OA in Scarborough/Toronto, Vaughan/Woodbridge? Consult our experts today.
Also Read
| Degenerative Disc Disease (Intervertebral Disc Pain) | Low Back Pain |
| Low Back Osteoarthritis | Lumbar Spondylosis |
| Sciatica | Whiplash |
| Scoliosis | Upper Back and Shoulder Pain |
