Osteoarthritis of the neck is one of the most common forms of neck pain for people over the age of 50. It results from chronic degeneration of the cervical spine, including the cushions between the neck vertebrae and the joints between the bones of the cervical spine. This degeneration can lead to depression of one or more of the nerve roots. This can result in pain in the neck and arms. If the spinal cord becomes involved, pain in the legs may also result. The degeneration of the discs between the vertebrae means that the discs lose some of their ability to absorb shock. The risk of a herniated disk is also increased.

The early stages of neck osteoarthritis are not usually accompanied by inflammation. In severe advanced cases, however, bits of cartilage may break off and float around inside the joints. Bone spurs may also develop.