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Osteoarthritis of the neck is one of
the most common forms of neck pain for people over the age of 50. It
results from chronic degeneration of the cervical spine, including
the cushions between the neck vertebrae and the joints between the
bones of the cervical spine. This degeneration can lead to depression
of one or more of the nerve roots. This can result in pain in the
neck and arms. If the spinal cord becomes involved, pain in the legs
may also result. The degeneration of the discs between the vertebrae
means that the discs lose some of their ability to absorb shock. The
risk of a herniated disk is also increased.
The early stages of neck osteoarthritis
are not usually accompanied by inflammation. In severe advanced
cases, however, bits of cartilage may break off and float around
inside the joints. Bone spurs may also develop.
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