The cervical spine, consisting of the top seven bones of your spine, supports and mobilizes the head. These bones are connected by a network of nerves, joints, and muscles. Cervical spondylosis refers to age-related wear and tear affecting the discs and joints in the neck, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis: Common symptoms include chronic neck pain and stiffness, which may extend to the shoulders and upper chest. You may experience arm weakness, muscle tightness and spasms, and reduced head mobility. Nerve pinching can cause numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the neck, arms, or hands. Clicking or grating noises during head movement are common and usually not a concern. However, severe cases may result in dizziness and blackouts due to vertebral artery compression, requiring medical attention.
Causes of Cervical Spondylosis: The flexibility and head support provided by the neck make it prone to injuries and degenerative conditions. Aging is the primary cause, leading to osteoarthritis, which wears down vertebrae and discs. Bone spurs formed due to inflammation, herniated discs, and ligament stiffness further restrict joint motion and compress nerves. Other contributing factors include repetitive stress, poor posture, previous neck injuries, and certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
Diagnosis of Cervical Spondylosis: Doctors diagnose cervical spondylosis through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging. Physical exams assess range of motion, pain location, and nerve and muscle function. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs help visualize degenerative changes and the condition of bones, discs, nerves, ligaments, and cartilage, confirming the diagnosis and ruling out other potential causes of neck pain.
Treatments for Cervical Spondylosis: Most mild to moderate cases are managed without surgery. Pain relief medications, muscle relaxants, and certain antidepressants can alleviate symptoms. Physiotherapy helps improve posture, strengthen neck muscles, and enhance flexibility. Cold or hot compresses and electrical stimulation may also provide relief. Under a therapist’s supervision, traction therapy using weights, pulleys, or air bladders can gently stretch the neck and alleviate nerve compression. For persistent pain, doctors might recommend corticosteroid or anesthetic injections near nerve roots, joint spaces, or neck muscles. Surgery, rarely needed, may be considered for severe nerve root or spinal cord compression, with minimally invasive procedures preferred to reduce infection risk and preserve essential structures.
Understanding cervical spondylosis and its treatment options can help individuals manage symptoms effectively and improve their quality of life.
