Symptoms
There are usually no signs of cervical spondylosis. However, if you experience any symptoms
then you may notice –
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Pain and stiffness around your neck
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Dizziness
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Muscle spasms
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Difficulty in walking or moving around
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Grinding sound when you move your neck
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Headaches
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Reduced coordination and balance
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Tingling and numbness
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Numbness or weakness in the arms, hands, or legs
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Loss of bladder or bowel control
In some situations, cervical spondylosis also may result in a narrowing of the spinal canal
within the bones of the spine.
Causes
Cervical spondylosis, also known as cervical osteoarthritis, is a condition that affects the
joints and discs of the neck. It is primarily caused by age-related changes in the spine and
is more common in individuals over the age of 40. While the exact cause of cervical
spondylosis is not yet known, several factors can contribute to its development. Here are
some of the main causes and risk factors associated with cervical spondylosis –
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Age –
The natural aging process leads to wear and tear on the spine. Over time,
the discs between the vertebrae may become dehydrated and lose their
elasticity. This can lead to the development of cervical spondylosis.
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Disc degeneration –
The intervertebral discs in the neck can degenerate due to age or other factors
such as repetitive stress or injury. As the discs degenerate, they may bulge or
herniate, causing pressure on the spinal nerves and contributing to the
development of cervical spondylosis.
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Spinal degeneration –
The facet joints, which connect the vertebrae in the neck, can undergo
degenerative changes. These changes include the formation of bone spurs or
osteophytes, which can narrow the space available for the spinal nerves and
spinal cord.
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Poor posture –
Chronic poor postures, such as slouching or forward head posture, can put
additional stress on the neck and contribute to the development of cervical
spondylosis. Improper posture can accelerate the wear and tear on the cervical
spine.
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Bone spurs –
The body grows extra bone to make the spine stronger. However, the growth in
bones can attack delicate areas of the spine such as the spinal cord and nerves
causing severe pain.
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Previous neck injuries –
Past neck injuries, such as fractures or sprains, can increase the likelihood of
developing cervical spondylosis later in life. Trauma to the neck can disrupt
the normal structure and function of the spine, leading to accelerated
degeneration.
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Genetic factors –
There may be a genetic predisposition to developing cervical spondylosis.
Certain genetic traits or variations may make some individuals more susceptible
to degenerative changes in the spine.
These factors increase the risk of developing cervical spondylosis, not everyone with these
risk factors will develop the condition. Additionally, some people may experience cervical
spondylosis without any identifiable cause. If you are experiencing symptoms of cervical
spondylosis, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate
diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
Diagnosis and Tests
To diagnose cervical spondylosis, healthcare professionals typically perform a combination
of medical history assessments, physical examinations, and imaging tests. Here’s an overview
of the diagnostic process for cervical spondylosis –
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Medical history –
Your doctor will begin by asking you about your symptoms, their duration, and
any factors that worsen or alleviate them. They will also inquire about your
medical history, previous injuries or surgeries, and any relevant family
history.
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Physical Examination –
A physical examination allows the doctor to assess your neck and neurological
function. They may check for tenderness, range of motion, muscle strength,
reflexes, and sensation in your arms and hands. They will also examine your
posture and evaluate any signs of nerve compression or spinal cord involvement.
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Imaging tests –
Imaging studies are commonly used to visualize the cervical spine and
confirm the diagnosis. These tests include –
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1. X-rays –
X-rays provide a basic view of the bones in your neck, helping
identify bone spurs, degenerative changes, or abnormalities in the
alignment of the vertebrae.
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2. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) –
MRI scans use powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed
images of the soft tissues, such as discs, nerves, and spinal cord.
This helps detect herniated discs, nerve compression, and spinal
cord abnormalities.
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3. Computed Tomography (CT) scan –
CT scans produce cross-sectional images of the neck, providing more
detailed information about the bones and the spinal canal. It can be
useful in identifying bone spurs and narrowing of the spinal canal.
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Electromyography (EMG) –
In some cases, an EMG may be performed to assess the electrical activity of the
muscles and the functioning of the nerves. This test helps determine if nerve
compression is present and which specific nerves are affected.
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Other tests –
Depending on your symptoms and the findings from the above tests, additional
diagnostic procedures, such as a nerve conduction study or blood tests, may be
ordered to rule out other conditions or investigate specific concerns.
It is necessary to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect you have cervical
spondylosis. They will be able to evaluate your symptoms, perform the necessary tests, and
provide an accurate diagnosis. Treatment options can then be discussed based on the severity
of your condition.
Treatments
The treatment of cervical spondylosis aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, improve
mobility, and prevent further progression of the condition. The specific treatment options
can vary depending on the severity of symptoms and individual circumstances. Here are some
common treatments for cervical spondylosis –
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Conservative management –
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1. Medications –
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such
as ibuprofen or naproxen, may help reduce pain and inflammation. In
some cases, stronger prescription medications or muscle relaxants
may be prescribed.
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2. Physical Therapy –
A physical therapist can provide exercises and stretches to improve
neck strength, flexibility, and posture. They may also use
techniques such as manual therapy, heat or cold therapy, ultrasound,
or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain and improve function.
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3. Neck immobilization –
In acute cases or severe pain, a cervical collar or neck brace may
be recommended to restrict movement and provide support. However,
long-term immobilization is generally not recommended.
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4. Lifestyle modifications –
Making lifestyle changes, such as maintaining good posture, avoiding
activities that worsen symptoms, incorporating regular exercise, and
managing weight, can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further
deterioration.
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Medications –
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1. Steroid injections –
Corticosteroid injections into the affected area may help reduce
inflammation and relieve pain. These injections are usually
performed under guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound.
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2. Analgesics –
In some cases, stronger pain medications or muscle relaxants may be
prescribed to manage severe pain and muscle spasms.
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Surgical intervention –
Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail to provide
relief or when symptoms are severe and progressive. The specific surgical
procedure depends on the nature and extent of the spinal cord or nerve
compression. Common surgical interventions include –
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1. Decompression surgery –
This involves removing the bone spurs or herniated discs that are
compressing the spinal cord or nerves.
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2. Spinal fusion –
In some cases, fusion surgery may be performed to stabilize the
spine by joining two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts or
implants.
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3. Artificial disc replacement –
This procedure involves replacing the damaged cervical disc with an
artificial disc, maintaining motion at that level of the spine.
Treatment plans should be tailored to individual needs, and healthcare professionals will
consider factors such as the severity of symptoms, overall health, and patient preferences.
It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate
treatment approach for cervical spondylosis.
Outlook
The outlook for individuals with cervical spondylosis varies depending on the severity of
the condition, the effectiveness of treatment, and individual factors. While cervical
spondylosis is a chronic condition that cannot be completely cured, most people can
effectively manage their symptoms and lead a normal life with appropriate treatment and
self-care.
With proper treatment and lifestyle modifications, many individuals experience a reduction
in pain and improvement in function. Physical therapy exercises and stretching can help
strengthen the neck muscles, improve flexibility, and alleviate symptoms. Medications, such
as NSAIDs and muscle relaxants, can provide relief from pain and inflammation. In some
cases, steroid injections may be beneficial for short-term pain relief.
For individuals who require surgery, outcomes can vary depending on the specific procedure
performed and individual factors. Surgical interventions such as decompression surgery or
spinal fusion can effectively relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves and improve
symptoms.
