What is Cervical Spine Arthritis?
Cervical spine arthritis, or cervical osteoarthritis, is a condition that occurs as a result of wear and tear on the joints over time. It is more likely to occur in older adults, but it can also develop in younger people who have experienced a neck injury or suffer from certain genetic risk factors. As the name suggests, cervical spine arthritis occurs in the upper cervical spine and refers to the gradual breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the upper cervical vertebrae.
Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Spine Arthritis
Cervical spine arthritis is characterized by pain and stiffness in the neck, reduced range of motion, and inflammation in the joints and vertebrae of the neck. Some other common symptoms of the condition include difficulty turning or tilting the head, and numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Cervical Spine Arthritis
Proper alignment of the upper cervical spine is necessary for maintaining the natural curvature of the neck and for allowing the neck to move freely. When the upper cervical spine is misaligned, it can lead to abnormal wear and tear on the joints, which can eventually lead to the development of cervical spine arthritis. In addition, the upper cervical spine is responsible for supporting the weight of the head, which can put added stress on the joints if one or more of the cervical vertebrae are misaligned. Left untreated, misalignment-induced repetitive stress injuries can accelerate cartilage breakdown, worsening both the frequency and severity of the symptoms of cervical spine arthritis.
How Our Treatment For Cervical Spine Arthritis Works
At our clinic, we offer an alternative, non-surgical treatment for cervical spine arthritis that works to restore the proper alignment of the upper cervical spine. Our specialized treatment focuses on gently realigning the vertebrae of the upper cervical spine to alleviate pain and restore proper posture and range of motion.
However, before treatment can begin, our expert chiropractor, Dr. Shamloo, will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the source of your symptoms. This typically involves the use of advanced 3D imaging and infrared thermography, allowing Dr. Shamloo to determine the precise angle and location of any vertebral misalignments. Armed with this information, Dr. Shamloo can gently and precisely realign the vertebrae of the upper cervical spine, restoring the natural curvature of the neck and relieving pressure on the intervertebral cartilage.
If you're looking for a natural treatment for cervical spine arthritis, we can help! Dr. Shamloo provides upper cervical chiropractic treatment for patients in Knoxville, Alcoa, Maryville, Farragut, Clinton, Oak Ridge, Sevierville, Lenoir City, Karns, Hardin Valley, Powell, Halls, and Fountain City in Tennessee, as well as the surrounding areas.