Arthritis in the neck due to poor posture and related stress on the joints is divided into stages of degeneration

Over a period of time, poor neck posture may cause joints to deteriorate resulting in neck arthritis. The sensitive nerves can become pinched. Soft tissues like muscles and ligaments stiffen and become hard and inelastic as they try to assume a more supportive function. Because the joints become unstable the ligaments which attach bones harden and try to act like bones. The muscles used to move bones lose elasticity as they try to function like ligaments. This process of neck arthritis will continue and may result in severe pain and even disability.

1) This is a side view of a normal neck without arthritis. Note the jaw in front and the base of the skull in the back. The normal forward curve is present. Note the equal spacing between the individual bones. The bones are smooth and regular. The small circles between the bones are openings for nerves which come off the spinal cord which are clear and unobstructed.

2) Here you can see the beginning of the degenerative process leading to neck arthritis. The nerves are obstructed and interfered with by rupture of the nerve roots which release toxins that are absorbed into the surrounding tissues.

3) If left to continue, the degeneration progresses; bone spurs form along the margins of the bones. Joint surfaces become rough and irregular. Discs in the neck begin to narrow and show signs of collapse. These are signs of progressive neck arthritis.

4) Now you can see a great deal of decay is present. There are many sharp bone spurs and the soft tissues begin to decay. Fusion has begun which causes the bones to become irregular blocks of calcium. Nerve roots are being destroyed. This stage of neck arthritis is very difficult to treat.

A chiropractor can help determine what stage your arthritis is in and the best methods to treat it. Adjustments or mobilizations are important along with things you can do at home like traction, neck exercises, the right neck pillow, joint supplements and posture correction.