Understanding Degenerative Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

A series of segments make up the spine and neck. The segments have three joints--one disc and two facets. By the mid-20s, the facets and joints have worn against each other enough to start degenerating. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is the main reason people experience neck pain.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of DDD including neck pain, numbness, tingling and pain that radiates down the shoulder blades into the arms.

Features

• By 60, everyone has some evidence of DDD, but it doesn't always cause pain or symptoms.

Diagnosis

• The doctor can diagnosis DDD by performing a physical exam to measure range of motion, ordering x-rays and possibly suggesting a C.T. scan or a MRI to check for disc rupture.

Treatment

• Treatment depends on severity and usually begins with non-surgical options like physical therapy and exercise. Surgery is sometimes warranted if non-surgical options fail.

Fun Fact

• Some people find different positions can either cause or alleviate episodes of neck pain.