Cervical Spondylosis

Introduction

Pain in the neck is common and may be a natural of aging in people over 50. Like the rest of the body, bones in the neck (cervical spine) progressively degenerate as we grow older. Over time arthritis of the neck (cervical spondylosis) may result from bony spars and problem with ligaments and disks. The pain that results may range from mild discomfort to severe, crippling dysfumction.

Symptoms

1. Neck pain and stiffness may be worse with upright activity.

2. You may feel or hear grinding or popping in the neck when you move.

3. Muscle spasm or headaches may originate in the neck.

The condition can make you feel irritable and disturb your sleep and impair your ability to work see your doctor soon for diagnosis and treatment.

Doctor's exam

Medical History

Tell the doctor if you have any illnesses or chronic condition.

Physical exam

The doctor may identify tender spots along the back of your neck and evaluate your ability to move the neck in various directions.

Imaging

X-ray, MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging).

Treatment

If you have Cervical Spondylosis, symptoms may last for several months or become chronic. Most of the time if symptoms are mild, the doctor may recommend a variety of non surgical treatment.

Rest

You may need to wear a soft cervical collar or neck brace to limit neck motion and relieve nerve irritation.

Physical Theraphy :

A cervical traction device, hot and cold therapy or active exercise programmer may help relieve symptoms.

Surgical treatment :

Your doctor may recommend surgery to relieve compression of nerves or the spinal cord if you have severe pain that doesn’t improve with more conservative treatment or if your nerve in your arms or legs are getting worse. The surgical procedure will depend on your underlying condition, such as bone spur or spinal stenosis.