Degenerative Disc Disease in the Neck

Degenerative disc disease in the neck, also known as cervical degenerative disc disease, is one of the most common causes of chronic neck pain and stiffness. While the term “disease” can sound alarming, this condition is actually a natural part of aging for many people. At The Orthopedic Partners, our spine specialists offer both non-surgical and surgical treatment options to help relieve pain and restore function.

What Is Degenerative Disc Disease in the Neck?

Between each vertebra in the spine is a disc that acts as a cushion, helping to absorb shock and allow smooth motion. These discs are made up of a tough outer layer and a gel-like inner core. Over time, wear and tear can cause the discs to dry out, lose height, or become less flexible, a process referred to as degenerative disc disease (DDD).

When DDD occurs in the cervical spine (neck), the reduced cushioning and disc space can lead to inflammation, nerve compression, and painful movement. In some cases, this condition may also contribute to bone spurs or spinal stenosis (narrowing around the spinal cord or nerves).

Symptoms of Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease

The symptoms of degenerative disc disease in the neck can range from mild discomfort to significant pain that interferes with daily activities. Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent neck pain or stiffness
  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
  • Pain that radiates to the shoulders, arms, or upper back
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
  • Muscle weakness in the upper limbs
  • Reduced range of motion in the neck
  • Headaches, especially at the base of the skull

Pain may come and go or flare up with specific movements such as turning your head or looking up and down.

What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease in the Neck?

Cervical disc degeneration typically occurs as part of the natural aging process. Discs lose hydration and elasticity with time, making them more prone to damage. Other contributing factors include:

  • Repetitive neck movements or strain
  • Poor posture (e.g., forward head position from screen use)
  • Prior neck injuries or trauma
  • Genetics or family history of spinal issues
  • Smoking, which reduces disc nutrition and accelerates degeneration

While disc degeneration is common, not everyone with disc changes experiences symptoms.

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing cervical DDD or experiencing symptoms:

  • Age over 40
  • Sedentary lifestyle or poor core/neck strength
  • Repetitive strain from work, hobbies, or sports
  • History of whiplash or neck injury
  • Smoking or other factors that affect disc health

How Is Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosed?

Our spine specialists begin with a thorough exam and discussion of your symptoms, posture, and activity levels. We then use imaging studies to assess the condition of your cervical discs:

  • X-rays can show disc height loss, bone spurs, or alignment problems. X-rays are obtained routinely to help diagnose the cause of persistent neck pain.
  • MRI scans provide detailed images of discs, nerves, and soft tissues. An MRI is obtained when there is concern for spinal cord or nerve compression.
  • CT scans provide additional details regarding the bony anatomy of the spine and are occasionally obtained to further evaluate sources of neck pain.

We’ll help you determine whether your symptoms are coming from a degenerated disc or another spine condition that needs attention.

Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease in the Neck

Most people with cervical DDD improve with conservative treatments. However, if symptoms worsen or nerve compression is present, surgical care may be recommended.

Non-surgical Treatments

  • Physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles and improve posture
  • Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
  • Heat or cold therapy to ease muscle tension and stiffness
  • Activity modifications to avoid positions that worsen symptoms
  • Steroid injections for temporary relief of nerve-related pain
  • Radiofrequency ablations to relieve pain from arthritic joints in the neck

Surgical Treatment

When conservative care doesn’t relieve symptoms or there’s evidence of nerve or spinal cord compression, surgery may be appropriate. Options include:

  • Cervical Disc Replacement: Replaces the degenerated disc with an artificial one to preserve motion and avoid fusion
  • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): Removes the damaged disc and stabilizes the spine with a small implant
  • Posterior Cervical Fusion or Laminoplasty: May be used when there is spinal cord compression at multiple levels of the spine.

At The Orthopedic Partners, we incorporate robotic-assisted and computer-navigated surgical tools in many procedures to improve precision and outcomes.

When to See a Spine Specialist

If neck pain or stiffness is interfering with your daily life, or you’re experiencing arm numbness, weakness, or shooting pain, it’s time to see a spine specialist. Early evaluation helps prevent symptoms from worsening and ensures you get the right treatment before nerve function is affected.

Relief from Neck Pain Starts Here

Living with neck pain isn’t something you have to accept. At The Orthopedic Partners, our team will help you understand the cause of your pain and create a personalized treatment plan, whether that’s physical therapy or advanced spine surgery.

Schedule a consultation with our spine team today and take the first step toward lasting relief.