Neck Arthritis and Joint Issues

Neck arthritis and degeneration of the joints in the neck (facet joints) has several names. Facet Joint syndrome, spondylosis, cervical osteoarthritis, bone spurs in the neck are all forms of degeneration of the neck which we call arthritis. 85% of people over the age of 60 have this sort of condition of varying degree.

Osteoarthritis in the neck results in a host of problems that cause painful symptoms such as:
Neck pain and stiffness, which often worsens with activity
Grinding sound, as bones scrape against each other with movement of the neck
Headaches
Muscle spasms in the neck and shoulders
Pain that is at its most intense first thing in the morning and then again at the end of the day
Pain that radiates from the neck into the shoulders and between the shoulder blades
Stinging pain that travels down the arms

The goal of physiotherapy in treating patients with neck arthritis include:
Reducing pain and stiffness
Improving joint mobility
Inhibiting any further progression of joint damage

Treatment options used in physiotherapy include but are not limited to:
Advice and Education
Exercise therapy
Manual Therapy/Traction
Heat and Cold
Acupuncture
Electrotherapy including IFC and TENS
Ultrasound