Question
I have degenerative arthritis and most recently experienced deep muscle left shoulder pain and continual popping in the C1 and 2. Doctor referred me to a Physical therapist who did wonders for the shoulder and neck muscles. This was acoomplished in 8 visits. However, the popping is still an occurance when I tilt my head to either side. At times my neck is very weak and I just feel the need to relax my head. There is no pain when the popping occurs but last night my neck hurt even simply lying on my back in bed. Any suggestions? Should I go back to my family physician ? The popping is so loud that those around me can hear it...Yikes

Answer
Hi Jody,

Chances are the popping is crepitus. This is secondary to the osteoarthritis. OA is treated with glucosamine sulfate with MSM. This OTC supplement has been shown in several large government studies to stop and even reverse OA. Don't expect any results if you are taking Nsaids such or Cox II inhibitors such as Celebrex. These compounds prevent cartilaginous new growth while only masking the symptoms. Get it checked out by your doctor to confirm it is OA.

Good Luck and thank you for your question Jody!

Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com