Cervical osteoarthritis

Cervical osteoarthritis, also known as cervical spondylosis, is a degenerative condition that affects the joints and discs in the neck. It is a common condition, particularly among older adults, and can cause a range of symptoms including neck pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. In this article, we will discuss the diagnosis, phenotypes, and treatment of cervical osteoarthritis.


Diagnosis:

The diagnosis of cervical osteoarthritis is typically made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies. During a physical exam, a doctor will assess the range of motion, strength, and tenderness of the neck. Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be used to visualize the extent of damage to the joints and discs in the neck. Blood tests may also be performed to rule out other types of arthritis or autoimmune conditions.


Phenotypes:

There are several different phenotypes or patterns of cervical osteoarthritis. The most common phenotypes are discogenic cervical spondylosis, facet joint cervical spondylosis, and mixed cervical spondylosis.

Discogenic cervical spondylosis: This phenotype is characterized by the degeneration of the intervertebral discs in the neck, which can cause pain and stiffness.

Facet joint cervical spondylosis: This phenotype is characterized by the degeneration of the facet joints, which can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.

Mixed cervical spondylosis: This phenotype involves a combination of discogenic and facet joint degeneration, and can cause a range of symptoms including pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.