Who Gets Cervical Arthritis?
Professional gymnasts, dancers, and surfers have an increased likelihood of cervical arthritis (spondylosis), along with manual laborers, as they have a higher degree of stress and strain placed on the head and neck throughout life. Maintaining a healthy posture and strong neck and back muscles may ameliorate some of this damage, along with appropriate rest and prompt treatment on any sudden trauma. Contact sports play a role in the development of cervical arthritis as repeated minor, or major, trauma to the neck, head, and spine can lead to progressive damage of the tissues and structures of the cervical region. Other lifestyle factors, such as smoking, poor nutrition, and certain medications may exacerbate other causes of cervical arthritis. Bones may be softened/decalcified by the excessive use of antacids, including the protein-pump inhibitors (PPIs) Prilosec, Prevacid, and Nexium. A recent study by Gray, et al (2010), found that women who regularly used PPIs for 8yrs had a 25% hig
