CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS

Cervical spondylosis is also known as cervical arthritis. It refers to degenerative changes in the spine that affect the cervical (neck) vertebrae. Arthritis may result from bony spurs and problems with ligaments and disks. With cervical spondylosis, the spinal canal may narrow causing compression of the spinal cord and nerves to the arms. Injuries can also compress the spinal cord. Nerves become inflamed by the compression and cause pain that ranges from mild discomfort to severe, crippling dysfunction. Nearly everyone over the age of 50 will experience some degeneration of the cervical spine. The changes that occur are progressive and not everyone will develop cervical spondylosis.

The main symptom and sometimes the only symptom of cervical spondylosis is progressive neck pain. There may be headaches or loss of balance. Neck pain and stiffness may worsen with upright activity. Grinding or popping may be felt or heard during movement. Eventually degenerative changes can cause pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. This can cause pain and tenderness in the neck. There also may be numbness and weakness in the arms, hands, and fingers and trouble walking due to weakness in the legs. Loss of balance may occur.

Seek medical evaluation and care for chronic neck pain. The goal of treatment is to relieve the pain and keep the spinal cord and nerve roots from being injured. Mild cases may not need any treatment. Symptoms usually get better with a neck brace or collar to keep the neck from moving. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen may be used. NSAIDs should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).

If the cervical spondylosis is severe, bed rest with traction on the neck may be needed. Rarely, surgery is needed to take the pressure off the spinal cord. Small pieces of bone and the disc may be taken out. A fusion of the vertebrae may be done to make the neck stable. Most people do not need surgery. On-going symptoms can usually be relieved with pain medicines. Most of the time, cervical spondylosis cannot be prevented.

Healthy behaviors can be the key to good spinal health. It is believed that exercise, good body mechanics, learning correct lifting techniques, and good posture may postpone arthritis.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File BONE3456.rf2 VRS# 7643 Data Version 7.0