Chiropractic Management of Cervical Strain Associated with Osteoarthritis

Because of Amos's age and the condition of his neck, his chiropractic treatment consists of a gentle type of manipulation that tractions or stretches the neck called "distraction technique". The chiropractor combines this treatment with gentle muscular resistance therapy, light stretching, and moist heat packs.

The chiropractor does perform gentle manual manipulation to the mid-back to increase the motion in this region. In the mid-back normal osteoarthritis of the spinal joints is found. But there is still enough motion in the joints to open up the joints, stretch soft tissue in the region, and decrease muscular tension.

The neck and mid-back work is combined with flexion-distraction of the low back. Chiropractic flexion-distraction uses a special table to treat the low back. In Amos's case, this means increasing motion in the lumbar (low back) spinal joint segments.

Importance of Home Care
Home care is an important aspect of chiropractic care and Amos is given neck exercises, suggestions regarding day-to-day activities and sitting in order to help maintain his progress.

Further, Amos is encouraged to swim. Within a month of treatment, Amos is much improved. He does not have full range of motion in his neck because of his arthritis, but he has better movement. He is now without significant neck and arm pain. He continues to have episodes of occasional aching in his upper back. He sees his chiropractor occasionally for maintenance care.