cervical disc with spondylosis

What is Cervical Spondylosis?

Cervical spondylosis, also known as neck arthritis, is a common, age-related condition that affects the joints and discs in your cervical spine, which is located in your neck. Over time, the wear and tear on the cartilage and bones of the cervical spine can lead to degenerative changes.

Symptoms

While many individuals with cervical spondylosis do not experience symptoms, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Neck pain and stiffness, which may worsen with activity
  • Pain that radiates to the arms or shoulders
  • Headaches, particularly in the back of the head
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms and hands
  • Muscle weakness in the arms, shoulders, or hands
  • Difficulty with balance or coordination, in severe cases

Causes

The primary cause of cervical spondylosis is aging. As we age, the discs in the cervical spine gradually break down, lose fluid, and become stiffer. Other factors that can contribute to the development of cervical spondylosis include:

  • Genetic factors, as it can run in families
  • Occupation or activities that involve repetitive neck movements or prolonged postures
  • Previous injuries to the neck
  • Smoking, which may damage the spinal discs
Consultation

Spondylosis Treatments

Call us at anytime at 1-888-409-8006 and ask us about the Possible Treatments & Procedures for Cervical Spondylosis.

Consultation

Diagnosis

Diagnosing cervical spondylosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. During the exam, a doctor will check for:

  • Range of motion in the neck
  • Reflexes and muscle strength
  • Any pain triggered by movement
  • Signs of nerve damage, such as numbness or changes in reflexes

Diagnostic imaging tests may include:

  • X-rays to detect bone spurs and other abnormalities
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to get a better look at the discs and nerves
  • Computed Tomography (CT) scans for a detailed cross-sectional image of the bone

Treatment Options

Treatment for cervical spondylosis aims to relieve pain, help you maintain your usual activities as much as possible, and prevent permanent damage to the spinal cord and nerves. Treatment options include:

  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections are used to decrease inflammation and pain.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises to stretch and strengthen muscles in the neck and shoulders can help relieve the symptoms.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Including ergonomic changes at work, regular exercise, and quitting smoking.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, where conservative treatments fail and there is evidence of nerve compression causing severe symptoms, surgery may be recommended to remove bone spurs or parts of your neck’s discs and vertebrae to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

At Spine & Orthopedic Center, our team of experts is here to help you understand and manage your condition for a healthier, more comfortable life. If you are experiencing symptoms of cervical spondylosis, please contact us to schedule an appointment.