Osteoarthritis in the neck (sometimes called Cervical Osteoarthritis) is typically described as pain that radiates to the shoulder and/or between the shoulder blades. The pain is usually at its worst in the mornings and typically improves a little throughout the day. Near the end of the day, it may become more severe and can include headaches that are usually felt in the back of the head. Bone spurs can often irritate or damage a nerve in this area and symptoms such as pain, tingling, or numbness can appear in the arms. If the spurs, or osteophytes, impinge on the spinal cord, it can lead to cervical myelopathy, which is a condition that includes dysfunction of the spinal cord. Besides resting this area, treatment may also include neck exercises that improve strength in the neck. This helps build muscle in the area and provide support for the joints. Many seek the help of a chiropractor to help adjust the neck and relieve episodes of pain. This is often done for those with chronic pain and involves visiting the chiropractor on a regular basis. For this form of Osteoarthritis, weight issues have little to do with the occurrence because the neck does not have receive very much pressure from weight being placed on the joints as in the case with the knees and hips. The idea is to build strength in the neck, easing pressure from the joints. Cold applications can be applied for swelling and heat can be applied for the stiffness. Topical ointments and solutions can also be applied to help ease pain and reduce inflammation. It is important to treat Osteoarthritis in the neck as immediately as possible since it can cause damage in other areas, such as the spinal cord. It goes without saying that the spinal cord is highly important when it comes to moving around. Without the mobility and flexibility of the spinal cord, our lives can be affected in devastating ways. So, although it may be a less common form of Osteoarthritis, it is surely one of the most serious.