The degenerative process that increases with age can also lead to a condition called calcification among the people, causing an increase in neck pain in the patient. Neck calcification occurs as a result of wear and tear of ligaments and cartilages in the neck. As a result of this wear, in which ligaments become stiff and protrusions occur in the bones, the spinal cord and nerve channels narrow. This narrowing puts pressure on the nerves and as a result, neck pain begins.
With old age, the amount of water in the inner part of the structure called the disc between the vertebrae may decrease, and this prevents the disc from doing its job. With the deterioration of the disc, its height also decreases and more load begins to be placed on the joints located at the back of the neck vertebrae. This imbalance in load distribution and mobility leads to deterioration of the vertebrae and abnormal bone extensions occur. These bone extensions can also cause neck pain. Afterwards, the outer layer of the disc may begin to deteriorate and rupture may occur. If these tears progress well, the inner structure of the disc will come out of the tear, that is, by creating a neck hernia, and press on the nerves that go to the spinal cord and arms.
Neck calcification and neck hernia show very similar symptoms and can occur together.
Neck and arm pain, numbness and weakness in hands and feet may be seen.
If there is only neck pain, strengthening the neck muscles with neck exercises helps to reduce the pain.
In addition, physical therapy methods and injections to the neck area may also be beneficial.
