Neck and Spine Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Neck and Spine Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Neck and spine arthritis is inflammation of the neck and spine regions. Arthritis is a progressive disorder, and arthritis pain usually begins gradually and worsens over time.

Spinal arthritis affects facet joints in the spine or sacroiliac joints. These are the joints between the spine and pelvis.

Osteoarthritis is "arthritis of the bone." It is common, often linked to aging. It can occur in any bodily joint, including joints impacting the neck and spine. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease whereby tissue and cartilage break down incrementally with time and wear and tear.   Osteoarthritis in the neck and spine can occur due to advanced age, obesity, past injury, or damage.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain
• Headaches
• Grinding noise heard during movement caused by loose cartilage
• Joint stiffness or locking
• Decreased range of motion and difficulty walking
• Loss of balance