Natural Arthritis Pain Relief for Back & Neck

Arthritis of the neck or spine, commonly referred to as spondylosis, results when the bones in these body parts deteriorate, usually due to age. This puts too much pressure on other bones, as well as the joints, muscles and discs of the neck and back. Fortunately, many doctors recommend natural pain relief methods that do not involve drugs or surgery, including acupuncture, visits to the chiropractor and utilizing a neck brace from time to time.

Acupuncture involves inserting small needles into the skin in order to relieve pain. The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture recognizes that acupuncture can relieve the pain associated with a variety of symptoms and conditions, including arthritis in the neck and back. The needles are inserted in certain pulse and pain points throughout the head, back and hands. Arthritis patients should consult with their doctor before starting an acupuncture regime. Note also that many acupuncture patients report increased sensitivity to pain throughout their hands, which is sometimes followed by a feeling of nausea.

Though not recommended for extended periods of time, a neck or spinal brace, or cervical collar, can temporarily relieve some of the symptoms associated with neck pain and arthritis. The brace alleviates pain by limiting the range of motion the affected body part can achieve to prevent further injury or pain to the patient. If a brace is worn for longer than a week at a time, however, it may weaken the spinal and neck muscles and even cause the pain it was meant to initially alleviate.

Many patients who have neck and back arthritis seek the help of a chiropractor to manage pain. Many need a referral from their primary doctors before starting a regime with a chiropractor. Once this is obtained, however, the chiropractor will examine the neck and back to determine how severe the arthritis is and the best form of treatment. Treatment typically begins with an X-ray---unless a primary doctor has already provided this---which shows whether any discs are misaligned. Depending on the diagnosis, the chiropractor may suggest osseous manipulation, which uses force to massage tiny tissue fluid bubbles out of the neck and back. A distraction technique may also be used to treat arthritis. This technique stretches the neck and applies muscle-resistance exercises and heat to alleviate pain.