What research is going on?

Many research teams throughout the world are studying neck pain. In the UK there have been advances in our understanding of the composition and biochemistry of the discs. Research has also shown that a large part of the normal wear of the spine is genetically determined (that is, there are inherited factors).

Discoveries about the effects of pain on the functioning of the back and neck muscles, the effect of stress and workplace conditions, and the importance of exercises are changing the ways in which neck pain is perceived.

Imaging techniques such as MRI allow a clearer understanding of the structure of the spine and can guide treatment, such as injections into the facet joints.

Glossary

Cartilage – strong material mainly found on bone ends that acts as a cushion and allows the bones to move smoothly on one another. A special type of cartilage is found in the intervertebral discs in the spine.

Facet joint – side joint connecting two vertebral bones.

Intervertebral disc – a circle of fibrocartilage (a tough, fibrous type of cartilage with a pulpy centre) which is found between spinal vertebrae.

Ligaments – tough, fibrous bands anchoring the bones on either side of a joint and holding the joint together.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan – a scan that shows up the soft-tissue structures in the neck as well as the bones. Often used in cases of arm pain. During an MRI scan you have to lie in a tube and it may be unpleasant for those who suffer from claustrophobia.

Osteoarthritis – a condition which can affect any joints in the body, in which the cartilage becomes damaged and the bones deform. Often referred to as 'wear-and-tear' or 'degenerative changes'.

Osteophytes – outgrowth of new bone around the sides of osteoarthritic joints, also known as 'spurs'.

Spondylosis – osteoarthritis of the small joints in the neck and back.