Arthritis in the neck can cause stiffness and pain, with rheumatoid arthritis and cervical spondylosis being the most common conditions. Diagnosis involves physical exams and imaging tests, while treatment options include medication, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy.
The cervical spine can experience stiffness and pain due to arthritic conditions. Rheumatoid arthritis and cervical spondylosis are the two most common conditions that result in arthritis and neck pain. These conditions can get worse over time and may require varying degrees of treatment to relieve neck pain and stiffness.
Seven vertebrae make up the cervical spine. Between the vertebrae are discs of collagenous material that can deteriorate over time due to several conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and cervical spondylosis, and age. When degeneration occurs, the joints in the spine have to absorb the additional stress and the nerves can be affected causing further pain.
Diagnosing arthritic conditions of the neck involves a physical exam and imaging tests. During a physical exam, a doctor will assess your level of pain, degree of movement, and ask questions about the frequency and severity of your symptoms. Imaging tests, including X-rays and ultrasounds, can help provide visual evidence of conditions related to arthritis and neck pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an inflammatory autoimmune disease. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in the neck include pain, stiffness, tenderness and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that requires long-term management and treatment.
There are various treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis and neck pain. Medications, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and anti-inflammatory drugs, are the standard treatment. Hot baths can help reduce pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and neck pain. Additionally, rest and strengthening exercises can help sufferers deal with the day-to-day symptoms of the disease.
Cervical spondylosis develops due to wear and tear on the bones of the cervical spine. Also known as osteoarthritis of the neck, cervical spondylosis can also occur with bone spurs, ligament damage, and disc degeneration. In addition to pain, osteoarthritis can cause muscle spasms, headaches, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.
Cervical spondylosis is the result of wear and tear on the bones of the neck, which is typically a result of aging. Women tend to get osteoarthritis more often than men after age 55. Other risk factors for developing osteoarthritis include obesity, previous neck injuries and overuse.
Treatment options for cervical spondylosis include medications, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy. Over-the-counter pain medications, corticosteroid injections, and medicated skin creams can help relieve pain. Losing weight, using ice and heat therapies, and limiting sudden neck movements can also help. Participating in physical therapy exercises can help improve strength and range of motion, although it may not work for everyone with arthritis and neck pain.
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