Everything You Need to Know About Neck Arthritis
What is Neck Arthritis?
Neck arthritis happens when the joints in your neck wear down over time. The cartilage that cushions the joints starts to break down, causing the bones to rub together. This can lead to stiffness, pain, and reduced movement in the neck.
An analogy…
Think of your neck joints like the hinges on a door. When they’re well-oiled (healthy cartilage), the door swings smoothly. But if the hinges are rusty or worn down, the door creaks and sticks. That’s what arthritis does to the joints in your neck.
What are other names that neck arthritis can be referred to?
Neck Osteoarthritis, Cervical Degeneration, Spinal Degeneration, Cervical Spondylosis
What causes neck arthritis?
Neck arthritis is usually caused by age-related wear and tear on the facet joints and intervertebral discs in the cervical spine. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the joints begins to thin or break down, which reduces the space between the bones. As this happens, the body may respond by forming bone spurs. These changes can lead to inflammation, joint stiffness, and in some cases, nerve irritation if a bone spur presses against a nearby spinal nerve.
What are the signs and symptoms of neck arthritis?
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the neck
- Dull or aching neck pain, worse in the morning or after inactivity
- Grinding or clicking sounds when turning the head
- Headaches that start from the neck
- Muscle tightness in the shoulders or upper back
- Pain that may spread to the shoulders, arms, or between shoulder blades
- In more severe cases: tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms
What tests are used to diagnose neck arthritis?
Spurling’s Test: The practitioner gently tilts your head to one side and applies a small amount of downward pressure.
Cervical Compression Test: Your head stays in a neutral (straight) position while the practitioner applies gentle downward pressure.
How long does neck arthritis take to heal?
Since arthritis is a degenerative condition, it doesn’t fully “heal,” but symptoms can be well-managed. With the right care, most people can reduce pain and improve movement within a few weeks. Long-term management focuses on keeping the neck strong, mobile, and supported.
How does neck arthritis happen?
- Ageing
- Poor posture
- Long hours sitting or looking down at screens
- Previous neck injuries (like whiplash)
- Repetitive neck strain from certain jobs or sports
- Weak neck and upper back muscles
- Genetics
What treatment can help neck arthritis?
- Manual therapy to improve neck joint mobility
- Soft tissue massage for tight muscles
- Postural training and correction
- Strengthening exercises for neck and shoulders
- Heat therapy to ease tension
- Education on desk and screen setup
- Breathing and relaxation techniques
- Advice on pillow choice and sleeping posture
What happens if neck arthritis doesn’t get better with treatment?
In some cases, even with proper treatment, neck arthritis can continue to get worse. If that happens, other treatments might be needed, like medication, injections, supplements, or scans such as an X-ray or MRI. Your practitioner will guide you and refer you to a specialist if needed. In more serious cases, like when nerves or the spinal cord are affected, surgery may be required to relieve the pressure.
What exercises or stretches can I do for neck arthritis?
- Chin tucks
- Neck side bends and rotations
- Shoulder blade squeezes
- Wall angels
What products can help with neck arthritis?
Upper trapezius stretch
Start in a seated position.
Place the hand on the symptomatic side under your chair.
Take your other hand and place it on your head.
Tilt your ear directly down towards your shoulder and hold this position.
You should feel a stretch down the side of your neck.
Bilateral shoulder shrug
Sit upright in your chair.
Rest your hands on your lap.
When ready, shrug both of your shoulders in an upward direction.
Repeat.
Chin tuck
Start in a seated position with your shoulders relaxed.
Look straight forward.
Tuck your chin in, as to resemble a double chin, hold this position.
