Neck arthritis (cervical spondylosis)

Overview

Bone spurs can press on nerves, causing arm symptoms.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Neck pain or stiffness

Less common

• Arm numbness
• Headache

When to get medical care

Causes

Aging.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Over 50

Possible complications

• Pinched nerve in the neck

Diagnosis

A clinician checks the neck.

The exam

Motion and nerve check.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• X-ray or MRI: If nerve symptoms.

Treatment

Keep moving.

Self-care

• Neck stretches
• Heat
• Good posture

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Physical therapy helps.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a rheumatologist (joint and immune system doctor).

Living with it

• Stay active with walking, swimming, or biking.
• Keep a healthy weight to ease joint strain.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• Arthritis Foundation: Helpline, exercise programs, and online community.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Manageable.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Neck arthritis (cervical spondylosis)