What to Know About Cervical Spondylosis |
Posted: September 28, 2022 |
Cervical spondylosis, also known as cervical arthritis or arthritis of the neck, refers to changes caused by wear-and-tear arthritis (osteoarthritis) that affect the bones, disks, and joints of the neck over time. This condition affects more than 85% of people over the age of 65. Neck pain and stiffness are the most common symptoms of cervical spondylosis. It is also possible to have cervical spondylosis without experiencing any symptoms. The majority of patients respond favorably to treatment, which includes medication and physical therapy. This article discusses the symptoms and causes of cervical spondylosis, as well as its diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of Cervical ArthritisThe terms "cervical spondylosis" and "osteoarthritis of the neck" refer to degenerative neck changes that occur over time. The most common symptoms of cervical spondylosis are neck pain and headaches in the back of the head. The neck may also feel stiff, with symptoms worse in the morning and improving throughout the day. The symptoms of cervical spondylosis can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily life. Pain begins gradually and worsens over time in people who have cervical spondylosis symptoms. As cervical spondylosis progresses, you may notice pain that worsens at night, symptoms that improve with rest, pain that radiates to the shoulders or shoulder blades, pain and symptoms that disrupt sleep, sometimes waking you up in the middle of the night, tenderness with pressure on the neck, inability to turn the head or bend the neck, and a clicking or grinding noise when turning the neck. Causes of Cervical ArthritisWhereas degenerative changes are frequently associated with cervical spondylosis, other conditions and factors may contribute to it. Other causes of cervical spondylosis include neck injuries, autoimmune diseases, spinal disk wear, age, and genetics. DiagnosisA cervical spondylosis diagnosis begins with a discussion of symptoms and medical history with a healthcare provider. They will inquire as to what symptoms you have experienced, what causes them, and what alleviates them. A physical examination of the neck, back, and shoulders follows. Your doctor will examine the back of your neck for tenderness, weakness, and limited range of motion. Your provider will also examine your reflexes, muscle strength, and gait to determine if the spinal cord or spinal nerves are under pressure. Imaging can provide additional information and help to confirm a cervical spondylosis diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide more detailed images that can be used to pinpoint pinched nerves. More detailed images of the spinal cord and nerve roots can be obtained with a computed tomography (CT) scan. Nerve function tests can help your doctor determine whether nerve signals are reaching the muscles properly. TreatmentMedicinesNSAIDs, corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications are among the medications used to treat cervical spondylosis. Physical TherapyA physical therapist can show you how to stretch and strengthen the muscles in your neck and shoulders. Physical therapy can also help with pain and stiffness management. Lifestyle and At-Home TherapiesPain, stiffness, and swelling can be relieved through lifestyle changes and at-home remedies. Changes in lifestyle, such as changing posture, can help to reduce inflammation and stress on the neck. Smoking cessation can also help to reduce inflammation. Home therapies may provide some relief. Cold treatment, for example, can reduce swelling, while heat treatment may relieve pain. Alternative MedicineAlternative medicines are therapies that are not part of traditional medicine. Alternative treatments for cervical spondylosis include chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy. Acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points, may also be beneficial in reducing neck pain. Massage therapy may also aid in the relief of neck pain and stiffness. SurgeryWhen all other treatments for cervical spondylosis have failed, your healthcare provider may refer you for surgical treatment. If neurological symptoms are severe or if neck arthritis causes severe pain or disability, surgery may be recommended. Cervical spondylosis surgery may include the removal of bone spurs, a portion of the cervical vertebra, or a herniated disk. Parts of the cervical spine that have been removed are fused together using hardware and bone grafts.
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