Cervical Degenerative Joint Disease

The neck or cervical spine can be divided into three separate areas, each performing different functions due to the orientation of the joints between the vertebrae. The upper cervical spine (C1, C2) is primarily built for rotation. The middle and lower cervical spine (C3–C7) are responsible for flexing, extension, side bending, and rotation.

Cervical Spine Movement: C5-C6 & Neighboring Levels

The greatest amount of movement occurs at cervical vertebrae C5–C6, but the levels of C4–C5 and C6–C7 have almost as much movement. This movement produces more stress on these areas of the spine, leading to the greatest amount of degeneration occurring at these levels.

Spinal and Facet Joints: Function and ImportanceAside from the upper cervical spine (C1, C2), all other cervical vertebral levels consist of three joints. There is one joint with the intervertebral discs connecting the bodies of the vertebrae. Additionally, there are two posterior and lateral joints on each side called facet joints. These facet joints play a critical role in supporting, stabilizing, and facilitating motion of the cervical spine.

Facet Joints and Their Role in the Cervical Spine

Facet joints are synovial joints with smooth, shiny contact surfaces known as articular cartilage. This cartilage allows the bones to slide freely over one another, reducing friction and stress. Each joint is surrounded by a protective capsule and lubricated by synovial fluid. However, facet joints can become irritated or inflamed, leading to pain and dysfunction.

Common Conditions of Facet Joints

Some common conditions affecting facet joints include:

Spondylosis
Osteoarthritis of the spine
Facet joint inflammation
Degenerative joint disease
Facet arthropathy

Degenerative Joint Disease: Causes and Effects

Arthritis is a noninfectious progressive disorder of the joints. In the early stages, the articular cartilage becomes yellow and opaque, showing areas of softening and roughening. As the degeneration progresses, cracks form in the cartilage, exposing the bone underneath. Over time, osteophytes (new bone spurs) form at the joint edges. This mechanical wear can lead to pain, loss of motion, and function at that particular level.

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