WHAT IS IT? NECK OSTEOARTHRITIS
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative process affecting the neck. Degeneration can affect the discs and joints, resulting in reduced disc height, increased bone growth, and sometimes the formation of osteophytes.
In severe cases, the space in which the nerves and spinal cord pass can become encroached, resulting in nerve compression or stenosis.
Signs & Symptoms
Pain in the neck (worse in the morning, in cold weather, before it rains, and after exercise
Reduced neck range of movement
Aggravated by neck extension, and at the extreme range of neck movements
Limited ability to carry out normal preferred activities
Possible referred pain to the shoulders, shoulder blades, and down arm
Possible sensory disturbances such as pins and needles or numbness
Eased with heat and lying down
What Causes It?
Age related degeneration increased by:
Weak deep neck flexor, lower trapezius and other relevant muscles
Increased lordosis of neck (chin poking position)
Forward head posture
Protracted or rounded shoulders
History of postural neck pain
Long standing incorrect work station set up (computer, chair, table)
Activities involving repetition, or sustained postures
History of hypomobile vertebrae and joints
How to Self Manage
Keep your neck moving (pain free range)
Reduce high impact exercise, but maintain flexibility and strength
Use heat and rest to reduce pain
See your pharmacist for advice on joint supplements
Seek assessment of your neck by your physiotherapist
Consider requesting an x-ray referral from your GP for confirmation of diagniosis
Prognosis
Conservative management should be enough to manage mild to moderate arthritis
Once pain becomes constant and severe, and life activities are significantly impeded then specialist intervention may be required
How Physio Helps
Assess your neck to confirm if OA is likely
Refer for an investigation (x-ray) if necessary
Prescribe an individual specific exercise program to gain as much range as possible
Address any biomechanical contributing factors
Correct any muscular weaknesses or imbalances