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Medicanet 
conditions and treatments
arthritis
common arthritis pains
Neck Arthritis |
Neck ArthritisThe neck is actually an extension of the spine and is composed of vertebrae which begin in the upper torso and end at the base of the skull.
These vertebrae are surrounded by muscles that allow for support and motion. The neck has a significant amount of motion and also has the task of supporting the head, one of the heaviest parts of the human body. However, because it is less protected than the rest of the spine, the neck can be vulnerable to injury and disorders such as arthritis that produce pain and restrict motion.
The kinds of arthritis that most commonly affect the neck include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis usually occurs in older people due to the wear down of the cartilage between the bones. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory auto-immune condition that occurs when the body’s immune system starts attacking healthy tissue. It can occur at any age.
Symptoms of Neck Arthritis
The common symptoms associated with neck arthritis include neck or shoulder pain, headaches in the back of the head, stiffness of the neck, difficulty in turning or bending the neck.
The neck pain may also radiate down to the arm.
If you encounter any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to consult your physician as soon as possible. He or she will carry out a thorough physical examination and may, in addition, carry out test such as x-rays, MRI, CT scans, myelograms, or an EMG. Samples of blood and synovial fluid may also be taken.
These tests are carried out because there are many conditions that have these same symptoms and it is important to eliminate all the possibilities to confirm the presence of arthritis.
Treatment for Neck Arthritis
Treatment of neck arthritis aims to reduce the pain and inflammation and stem the further spread of arthritis. You have to wear a neck brace to immobilize the neck and prevent further damage from occurring. Your physician may also prescribe some exercises to strengthen the neck muscles.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used to treat the inflammation and may be combined with analgesics or supplements of glucosamine and chondroitin-sulfate to relieve the pain. In case of severe cases of arthritis, disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs may be sued to suppress the immune system and prevent the spread of arthritis.
You can also aid the treatment process by following the doctor’s instructions and performing the prescribed exercises regularly. Avoid spending long hours in front of the television or computer and ensure that your posture is always straight.
Avoid high impact sports that may cause jerks to the neck. Sleep on a firm mattress, preferably without a pillow, or with a small pillow.
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