One in two Americans will develop osteoarthritis and 27 million adults currently are living with it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The prevalence of osteoarthritis increases rapidly among those 45 or older. The pain of osteoarthritis can often interfere with ability to work. However, neck strengthening exercises help alleviate some of the pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, according to MayoClinic.com. Osteoarthritis develops over time and occurs when the cartilage in your joints becomes worn down. Osteoarthritis can affect virtually any joint in the body. The hands, hips, knees, neck, and lower back are the most commonly effected areas of the body.
Symptoms
Osteoarthritis symptoms are likely to develop slowly and can worsen over time. Pain, tenderness, stiffness, loss of flexibility, bone spurs, and a grating sound of sensation are symptoms of osteoarthritis, according to MayoClinic.com. Osteoarthritis can be caused by age, joint injury, heredity, muscle weakness or obesity.
Treatment
While there is no known cure for osteoarthritis, there are treatment options. Osteoarthritis can be treated with anti-inflammatory medicines, cortisone shots, physical therapy, avoiding joint stress, braces, shoe inserts, pain management, joint replacement, and fusion of certain joints and bones, according to MayoClinic.com. Another option is exercise.
Neck Strengthening Exercises
Neck strengthening exercises can increase your range of motion, mobility, and strengthen the cervical spine. Developing strength in the neck can take weeks or even months, according to Virginia Tech's Schiffert Health Center.
One exercise includes slowly touching your chin to your chest and then raising your head back to see the ceiling. Relax and then repeat.
You can also slowly tilt your head from side to side and try to touch your ear to the shoulder. Relax and repeat.
Another option is turning your head to the left and then to the right. Try stretching your neck as far as possible, but not to the point of pain.
Virginia Tech also recommends performing these exercises in the shower with warm water running.
Additionally, you can try using a neck-raise machine can help strengthen the neck and its surrounding muscles. Shoulder raises and military presses can also help.
Warnings
You should always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise regime. Only your doctor can help to determine whether neck strengthening options will be helpful in fighting osteoarthritis. Any neck strengthening exercise that is uncomfortable should be stopped immediately. If you experience pain while exercising, you should visit your doctor.
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