Arthritis of the neck is caused when the bones in the neck begin to degenerate. As we age, the discs lose water and become stiff. As a result, the bones can rub against one another, cause pain or stenosis.

Risk factors of developing neck arthritis:

• Smoking
• Genetics
• Work involving strenuous neck movements
• Depression/anxiety
• Injuries to the neck

Although symtoms can vary case by case, generally they typically include:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches
• Numbing weakness in shoulders, arms and fingers
• Grinding sound when moving the neck
• Inability to fully move neck

To diagnose arthritis of the neck, your Newport Beach orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Todd Peters will perform a complete and thorough physical examination as well as a medical history check. He may also request X-Rays, MRIs, and CT scans to better assess your case.

X-Rays – A type of quick imaging process using electromagnectic waves to better show Dr. Peters bones of the body to pinpoint possible sources of pain.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – This type of imaging uses radiology to show Dr. Peters the soft tissues of the body like muscles, disks, nerves, and the spinal cord.

Computerized tomography (CT) – CT scans are X-ray scans taken from various angles to create a cross-section of bones and soft tissues of the body.

• Steriod/Epidural injections
• Acupuncture
• Pain medication

In extreme cases, Dr. Peters may recommend surgery as treatment.