What is Cervical Spine Arthritis?

Cervical spine arthritis, also known as cervical osteoarthritis, is a type of degenerative joint disease that affects the cervical region of the spine. It is characterized by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the joints in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Cervical spine arthritis is often a result of wear and tear on the joints due to aging, although it can also be caused by other factors such as injury, overuse, or genetic predisposition. It is more common in people over the age of 50, and women are more likely to develop it than men.

Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Spine Arthritis

Common symptoms of cervical spine arthritis include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, shoulder pain, and numbness or tingling in the arms or hands. In severe cases, cervical spine arthritis may also cause difficulty walking or maintaining balance, weakness in the arms or legs, and muscle spasms of the neck and back.

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Cervical Spine Arthritis

The upper cervical spine is the topmost segment of the spinal column and consists of seven stacked vertebrae. When there is a vertebral misalignment in this region of the spine, it can lead to abnormal stress on the joints and muscles in the neck, potentially contributing to and/or accelerating the degeneration of intervertebral cartilage and the development of cervical spine arthritis. 

How our Cervical Spine Arthritis Treatment Works

At Upper Cervical Chiropractic of Boulder, our treatment for cervical spine arthritis is premised on the belief that overall health and well-being are closely tied to the health and function of the upper cervical spine. Our specialist chiropractors, Dr. Christina Coblish and Dr. Ryan Moeskau, use the Blair Upper Cervical Technique to treat cervical spine arthritis. This is a gentle, non-invasive form of upper cervical chiropractic care that centers on using precise diagnostic tools and low-force adjustment techniques to correct misalignments in the upper cervical spine.

Before beginning treatment, we perform a range of diagnostic tests, including cone-beam computed tomography scans, to create a detailed 3D model of your upper cervical spine. If a misalignment is detected, Dr. Coblish and Dr. Moeskau will use low-force, precise techniques to correct the affected vertebra. By realigning the upper cervical spine, we can help restore normal biomechanics, reduce pressure on the joints, and improve joint mobility. This can lead to a reduction in pain and inflammation, improved range of motion, and a decrease in the progression of cervical spine arthritis.

If you’re looking for an effective and natural treatment for cervical spine arthritis, Dr. Coblish and Dr. Moeskau can help. We service patients across Colorado, including Boulder, Longmont, Louisville, Erie, Lafayette, Broomfield, and Denver.