Neck Osteoarthritis Treatment in Illinois

Our Specialists Can Help Relieve Pain

Cervical spondylosis, or osteoarthritis of the neck, is a common age-related condition that impacts millions. Although many people who have it experience no symptoms, the condition typically worsens with age and sometimes causes pain, stiffness, and other indications. This chronic disorder cannot be cured, but effective intervention enables those with neck arthritis to live normal lives.

What Is Cervical Spondylosis?

This type of osteoarthritis occurs when aging cervical discs change, reducing their ability to cushion vertebrae in the neck. The discs, comprised of fibrous outer layers surrounding gel-like cores, serve as shock-absorbers, facilitating flexibility and range of motion in the neck. Some disc degeneration is expected as a normal part of aging, but as these changes take place, some older adults develop pain and stiffness. In many cases, rough, boney patches called osteophytes develop on the edges of neck vertebrae, contributing to cervical spondylosis. As cervical discs naturally grow less hydrated, the risk for cervical spondylosis also increases.

Causes & Symptoms of Neck Osteoarthritis

Cartilage and bones are subject to wear, so degenerative conditions like cervical spondylosis develop after years of use. It is thought more than 80% of people over age 60 exhibit signs of the condition –most without symptoms. Although aging is the greatest risk factor for cervical spondylosis, other elements may contribute to this type of neck pain. Athletic injury, for instance, can accelerate the aging process, leading to neck arthritis. Repetitive, strenuous activities – such as work activities – may also irritate associated muscles, ligaments, and nerves, increasing the risk for cervical spondylosis.

Common symptoms of cervical spondylosis include:

• Neck pain and stiffness, which may worsen with activity
• Numbness and weakness in arms, hands, and fingers
• Trouble walking, loss of balance, or weakness in hands or legs
• Muscle spasms in neck and shoulders
• Headaches
• Grinding and popping sound/feeling in neck with movement
• Pain that worsens when looking up or down for a long time or with certain activities
• Pain that improves with rest or lying down

Discuss neck osteoarthritis treatment options with one of our neck specialists today. Contact us at (630) 584-1400 today.