Cervical Spondylosis

 

Definition

Cervical spondylosis is a type of osteoarthritis that affects the cervical spine, which is the portion of the spine that runs through the neck. It is characterized by the degeneration of the intervertebral discs and the formation of bone spurs (osteophytes) in the cervical spine. The degeneration of the intervertebral discs can cause the spine to lose some of its normal curvature, leading to a condition known as lordosis.

Causes of Cervical Spondylosis

 Cervical spondylosis is a condition that involves the deterioration of the bones, discs, and other structures in the neck (cervical spine). It is a common cause of neck pain and can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Aging: As we age, the bones, discs, and other structures in the cervical spine can degenerate, leading to cervical spondylosis.
• Wear and tear: The cervical spine is subjected to a lot of wear and tear over time, which can contribute to the development of cervical spondylosis.
• Poor posture: Poor posture, such as slumping or looking down at a phone or computer screen for long periods of time, can put extra strain on the neck and lead to cervical spondylosis.
• Genetics: Some people may be more prone to developing cervical spondylosis due to their genetics.
• Previous injuries: Previous injuries to the neck, such as whiplash or a fracture, can increase the risk of developing cervical spondylosis.

Occupations that require repetitive neck movements or poor neck posture: Certain occupations, such as construction work or office work, may increase the risk of developing cervical spondylosis due to the repetitive neck movements or poor neck posture that they may require.

Sign and Symptoms

 It can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Neck pain and stiffness: This is the most common symptom of cervical spondylosis. The pain may be constant or may only occur when you move your neck in certain ways.
• Headaches: Cervical spondylosis can cause headaches that originate in the neck and radiate up into the head.
• Numbness and tingling: Some people with cervical spondylosis experience numbness or tingling in the arms or hands.
• Weakness: The condition can cause weakness in the arms and hands, which can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
• Balance problems: Cervical spondylosis can affect your balance and coordination, leading to dizziness or a feeling of unsteadiness.
• Difficulty walking: In severe cases, cervical spondylosis can cause difficulty walking or even a loss of bowel or bladder control.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Medical and Physiotherapy Management

The medical management of cervical spondylosis typically involves a combination of non-surgical and surgical treatments. Non-surgical treatments include:

• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles in the neck and improve flexibility. This can help to reduce pain and improve function.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications, such as muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Heat and ice: Applying heat or ice to the affected area can also help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Orthotics or cervical collar: In some cases, a cervical collar or orthotic device can be worn to help support the neck and reduce strain on the affected area.
• Injections: Epidural injections or nerve blocks may be used to manage chronic pain in the cervical spine.

Surgical treatment may be considered if the non-surgical treatment options fail to provide adequate relief. There are several types of surgeries that may be used to treat cervical spondylosis, including:

• Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF): This is a procedure that involves removing the damaged disc and fusing the two adjacent vertebrae together.
• Posterior cervical foraminotomy: This is a procedure that involves removing a small portion of the bone to widen the foramen and relieve pressure on the nerve.
• Artificial disc replacement: This is a procedure that involves replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one.

It is important to note that, not all the patients with cervical spondylosis need surgery. Your doctor will consider several factors, such as your age, overall health, and the severity of your symptoms, when determining the best treatment plan for you.

Physical therapy, medication, and education on proper posture, exercise and ergonomic positioning at home and work place can be the first line of treatment. Consult with a orthopaedic surgeon or physiatrist to discuss the best treatment plan for you.