Treatment for Cervical Degenerative Joint Disease in New Jersey
The neck, or cervical spine, is a column of interlocking bones called vertebrae. Between each of these vertebrae is a joint cushioned by cartilage. That cartilage begins to break down as people age, causing pain and discomfort. Doctors refer to this condition as cervical degenerative joint disease.
At NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, we diagnose and treat a variety of neck and spine conditions using minimally invasive spine surgery techniques, helping patients return to pain-free living. We have locations throughout New Jersey in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, and Hainesport.
What Causes Cervical Degenerative Joint Disease?
Degenerative joint disease, also called osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage begins to break down. The facet joints in your neck are covered in a smooth, shiny layer of articular cartilage that reduces friction and allows the vertebrae to glide fluidly over one another. During cervical joint degeneration, the otherwise translucent cartilage develops rough patches and turns opaque yellow. These rough patches create friction. Rather than gliding smoothly, bones rub against one another painfully.
Joint degeneration occurs over time as a natural result of aging. Certain factors, however, may increase an individual’s risk of developing a degenerative condition sooner. These are:
- Repetitive stress from work or sports
- Excessive exercise or weight-lifting
- Genetic factors
- Trauma from a fall or whiplash
Though cervical degenerative joint disease cannot always be avoided, there may be ways to reduce a patient’s risk factor. Talk to your doctor about steps you can take to prevent or mitigate symptoms of joint degeneration.
Symptoms of Cervical Degenerative Joint Disease
Because this condition is degenerative, its symptoms can vary depending on the specific affected joints and the degree of degeneration present. New symptoms may appear as the condition progresses. If you are struggling with cervical degenerative joint disease, you may experience some or all of the following:
- Neck pain that worsens after physical activity
- Pain that radiates to your shoulders and arms
- Tenderness and swelling around the affected joint
- Muscle spasms
- Stiffness after periods of rest
- Difficulty turning your head or looking up
- Difficulty sitting comfortably
- Inability to bend backward
- Loss of motion in your shoulders
- Changes in your spine’s curvature
Cervical degenerative joint disease can also expose you to other spine conditions. Osteoarthritis can affect the facet joints, resulting in cervical facet syndrome. Total breakdown of cartilage may also expose the bone, encouraging the growth of bone spurs or osteophytes. These spurs may narrow the spinal canal and cause cervical myelopathy or stenosis.
Diagnosing Cervical Degenerative Joint Disease
Cervical degenerative joint disease is among the most common causes of neck pain, but other conditions can cause similar symptoms. Spine specialists must have an accurate diagnosis if they are to treat your pain effectively. At NU-Spine, diagnoses are performed by board-certified neurosurgeon, Dr. Branko Skovrlj. He begins with a thorough physical exam to evaluate your range of motion and check for sensitivity zones. He may then request advanced imaging tests, such as:
- X-Ray
- CT scans
- MRI
These tests will help Dr. Skovrlj rule out other disorders while forming a complete picture of your condition. The better he understands the cause of your pain, the more effectively he can treat it and help you get back to your pain-free lifestyle.
What Are Treatments for Cervical Degenerative Joint Disease?
Treatment options for cervical degenerative joint disease depend on how much the condition has progressed. The earlier you seek treatment, the better chance you have of reducing pain through non-surgical means. For milder cases, non-invasive treatments may include:
- Rest
- Ice and heat therapy
- Painkillers
- Anti-inflammatory steroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Supportive collars
Severe cervical degenerative joint disease may not respond to conservative treatments. If your condition has progressed to a certain point, surgery may be necessary. Dr. Skovrlj is a leading spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive spine procedures. He may offer the following surgical options:
- Endoscopic decompression
- Laser facet rhizotomy
- Facet thermal ablation
- Endoscopic foraminotomy
Though surgery may reduce your pain, it cannot always prevent a recurrence. This is why it’s important to speak with a spine specialist at the earliest sign of neck pain. By treating pain promptly, spine specialists can improve your chances of a more complete recovery.
Treat Neck Pain at NU-Spine
If you are struggling with cervical degenerative joint disease or another form of neck pain, don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with the spine experts at NU Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today for an initial consultation, or visit one of our New Jersey locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, and Hainesport.