What are the symptoms of an arthritic neck?

Symptoms

  • Chronic pain and stiffness in the neck that may be worse with upright activity.
  • The sound or feeling of popping in the neck when moving.
  • Involuntary contractions of the muscles (spasms) that cause pain or a loss of movement or headaches that start from the neck.
  • Numbness and weakness in the arms, hands and fingers.

What is the most common arthritis in the neck?

Cervical spondylosis, commonly called arthritis of the neck, is the medical term for these age-related, wear-and-tear changes that occur over time. Cervical spondylosis is extremely common. More than 85% of people over the age of 60 are affected.

Can you have rheumatoid arthritis only in your neck?

Neck pain is the most common symptom of RA of the neck. Its severity varies from person to person. You may experience a dull or throbbing ache in the back of the neck and around the base of the skull. Joint stiffness and swelling might make it harder to move your head.

Is Neck Arthritis life threatening?

If it progresses, the nerves may get impinged, which can lead to weakness and numbness in extremities, says Rajat Bhatt, M.D., a rheumatologist at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital in Richmond, TX. Severe instability can also lead to compression of the spinal cord, which can be fatal.

How should I sleep with arthritis in my neck?

If you’re dealing with neck discomfort, the best positions for sleep are on your back or side. These are both less stressful on your spine than sleeping on your stomach. It may be difficult to change your sleeping position, since your preferred position is often determined early in life.

What is the best exercise for neck arthritis?

Neck rotation

  • Sit in a chair or stand with good posture.
  • Slowly turn your head to the right, keeping your chin straight.
  • Hold this position for 5 to 10 seconds, then return to center.
  • Slowly turn your head to the left and hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Then return to center.
  • Repeat 5 times on each side.

Can you get a cortisone shot in your neck?

Healthcare providers use cervical epidural steroid injections (cervical ESIs) for chronic pain management. Your provider injects a steroid or corticosteroid medication into the epidural space around the spinal cord in your neck. The neck region of your spine is called the cervical spine.

Does heat help neck arthritis?

Many arthritis doctors recommend both heat and cold treatments to help reduce inflammation and ease the pain and stiffness that comes with arthritis.