Neck arthritis and headache are related to each other. Neck arthritis due to joint wear and inflammation can cause pressure on neck nerves and muscles, which results in the occurrence of cervicogenic headaches. These headaches start from the back of the head and extend to the forehead and temples. Timely and principled treatment, including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs and lifestyle modification, helps a lot to improve symptoms. Osteoarthritis of the neck is one of the common degenerative diseases among adults that causes pain and limitation of movement. In addition to local pain in the neck area, as we said, this disease also leads to chronic and annoying headaches. Cervical headache can cause symptoms such as pain, tingling, and numbness in the neck, shoulders, and hands. Accurately understanding the relationship between neck arthritis and headache, knowing the symptoms, diagnosis methods and effective treatments will help people to get rid of their chronic pain and have a better quality of life. What is neck arthritis? Neck arthritis or osteoarthritis is wear and tear of the cartilage between the neck vertebrae, as a result of which the bones rub against each other. This abrasion causes inflammation, swelling and reduced movement of the neck joints. Over time, this process can lead to the formation of bone spurs (abnormal ossification) and pressure on nerve roots, exacerbating symptoms of pain and discomfort. Why does neck arthritis cause headaches? Inflammation and cramping of the neck muscles or pressure on the neck nerves can lead to neck headaches. This type of headache usually starts from the back of the head and spreads to the forehead or temples. The difference between this headache and other headaches is that movement or pressure on the neck can aggravate it. The main cause of this headache is the stimulation of pain receptors in the neck area and the sending of pain messages to the brain, which is finally felt as a headache. Read more: Harmful exercises for cervical disc Symptoms of neck arthritis and related headaches - Neck pain and dryness, especially when moving - Pain in shoulders and arm - Headaches that start from the back of the head and reach the temple or forehead - Restriction in neck movement and dry feeling Tingling, burning or numbness in the arms or hands - In severe cases, muscle weakness Common causes of neck arthritis and headache - Aging and natural wear and tear: with increasing age, the cartilage between the vertebrae deteriorates and the bones rub together. - Improper body posture: such as repeatedly bending the head while working with a computer or mobile phone, which puts a lot of pressure on the neck vertebrae. - Previous injuries: blows or accidents that have resulted in damage to the vertebrae or ligaments of the neck. - Heredity and genetic factors: some people may have a more genetic background for arthritis. Diagnosis methods To accurately diagnose neck arthritis and headache and determine its severity, the doctor uses the following methods: - Physical examination: examining the range of motion of the neck, the presence of pain and sensitivity, and neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness. - Medical imaging: 1. Radiography (X-ray): to observe wear and bone changes 2. MRI: more detailed examination of soft structures such as discs and nerves 3. CT scan: in more complex cases for a better view of the bones Non-surgical treatments - Physiotherapy: including stretching and strengthening exercises to increase flexibility and reduce pressure on joints and nerves - Correcting body posture: teaching ergonomic principles to reduce chronic pressure on the neck in the workplace and everyday life - Hot or cold compress: local use to reduce inflammation and relieve pain - Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): reduce pain and swelling - Muscle relaxants: reducing muscle cramps and improving movement ### Specialized drug treatments - NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) to reduce pain and inflammation - Muscle relaxant drugs - In severe cases, local injection of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pressure on the nerves By visiting a pain specialist, you can relieve this condition with non-surgical methods and the latest treatment methods. Usually, injection is one of the treatment methods performed by a doctor in a pain clinic. ### Surgical treatments Surgery is recommended in rare cases and only when: - Severe pressure on the spinal cord or nerves causing weakness or paralysis. - Conservative treatments are not effective. Surgery can include removing bone spurs, stabilizing vertebrae, or removing part of a cervical disc. Prevention of neck arthritis and neck headaches - Maintaining proper body posture while working, studying or using a mobile phone - Avoid prolonged bending - Regular strengthening and stretching exercises for the neck and shoulders - Short and regular breaks during long-term work - Compliance with the principles of ergonomics in the workplace Important points about headaches caused by neck arthritis Headaches caused by neck arthritis usually improve with regular treatments and lifestyle modification; But severe, frequent, or unusual headaches should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions such as tumors or infections.