The Spur

See the bone spurs growing on C5 and C6.  Bone will remodel to the demands or pressure placed on it (Wolff's Law, google it)  Notice 2 things about this neck.  First see how straight this cervical spine is?  This is a typical configuration after a trauma such as a whiplash.  Gravity is constantly pushing downward on your neck.  The curve spreads the pressure evenly on the entire cervical spine.  When the curve is reduced the pressure increases greatly on the lower joints.  As the pressure increases beyond capacity your body mutate the bone and joint to strengthen  it for the new demands.  Secondly, notice how the cervical spine leans forward.  This is sometimes called "Forward Head Posture" and it acts like torque, drastically increasing the pressure on the lower part of the cervical spine, causing even bone spur formation.  Once bone spurs form it becomes impossible for the joint to move properly.  Reduced range of motion causes even faster breakdown.  Do you see how the downward spiral begins to speed up?  Let's look at a close up.

If you have never had your cervical spine evaluated by a chiropractor, I urge you to do so now.  If we catch these problems early and reduce the pressure, then correct the curve, you can avoid a lifetime of problems.  If you look up Wolff's Law and mention it on your first visit,  your x-rays are on me.