Cervical osteoarthritis, or arthritis of the neck, can result in significantly limited function and increased pain through the neck and upper back. Over time, our joints endure the wear and tear of regular use. As we age, we naturally see changes in the intervertebral discs as well. This decreased cushioning between the vertebrae and gradual wear on the structures that make up the joints of the neck can result in dysfunction that can impact one’s daily life. Thankfully, physical therapists are trained to manage this condition and improve overall function of the neck.
Range of Motion
As these degenerative changes occur in the cervical spine, stiffness occurs which impacts a person’s ability to move freely. This is sometimes referred to as spondylosis. It can lead to pain with head movement and, in some cases, compression of the nerves that exit the cervical spine due to impaired movement quality of the spine. A physical therapist can improve cervical range of motion through manual techniques as well as prescribing exercises and stretches to improve strength and reduce tightness throughout the cervical spine. More specifically, a physical therapist can perform joint mobilizations to each level of the spine to target the segments that are most stiff to improve mobility and reduce pain with motion. Additionally, they can also utilize soft tissue mobilization techniques which apply physical pressure to the musculature surrounding the cervical spine to promote relaxation of the muscles and improved function of the neck.
Strengthening
Weakness of the postural musculature that supports the neck and upper back is often seen concurrently with neck stiffness and dysfunction. A physical therapist can perform specific testing to identify the presence of weakness and prescribe the appropriate exercises to build strength and improve overall postural stability. This, along with other management strategies, can help to reduce pain and maximize one’s abilities over a long period of time.
If you have been experiencing neck pain and stiffness that is due to osteoarthritis, physical therapy can provide relief through a combination of manual therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises. At Respire Physical Therapy, we will work with you 1-on-1 to improve your function and provide you with the tools to maintain these improvements long-term. Call Respire Physical Therapy at 703-671-1871 or click here to schedule an initial evaluation today!
Tags: regain your movement freedom, movement is medicine, cervical arthritis, choosept, neck arthritis, arlingtonva, alexandriava, fallschurchva, Physical Therapy, ptworks, Respire Physical Therapy, painfreeliving, physical therapist, health blog, neck pain, pt education, Neck Stiffness
