Cervical spondylosis, also known as osteoarthritis of the neck, is a condition that affects the discs, bones, and joints in the neck due to aging. As we age, the discs in the cervical spine lose fluid and become stiffer. This condition is common in older and middle-aged individuals.
As the discs and cartilage wear down, bone spurs, or osteophytes, can form in the neck. These growths might enlarge the cervical column or affect the areas where spinal nerves exit, leading to cervical spinal stenosis. This can result in neck pain and stiffness. Although cervical spondylosis usually doesn’t worsen over time, surgery might be necessary in severe cases.
Aging is the main cause of cervical spondylosis. For people over fifty, the discs between vertebrae become less cushioned, and the ligaments and bones thicken, encroaching into the spinal canal. Previous neck injuries or certain activities, like gymnastics, can also contribute to the condition. Poor posture may accelerate spinal changes leading to cervical spondylosis.
Symptoms can include neck pain, stiffness, and less common issues like dizziness, headaches, palpitations, nausea, stomach pain, tinnitus, blurred vision, and memory problems. Some studies suggest a link between chronic neck pain and high blood pressure. Symptoms often improve with rest and are usually worse in the morning and evening.
If cervical spondylosis leads to spinal pressure (cervical stenosis), it can cause cervical myelopathy, characterized by symptoms like difficulty walking and using hands. Another complication is cervical radiculopathy, where bone spurs press on nerves, causing arm pain.
Diagnosis typically starts with a discussion of symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical exam focusing on the neck, back, and shoulders. Doctors may check reflexes and arm and hand strength to assess sensation and observe your gait. Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs might be used for further evaluation.
Most treatments for cervical spondylosis are conservative. Surgery is rare and only considered for severe functional impairments, such as persistent loss of sensation or function in the limbs. The goal of surgery is to relieve nerve and spinal cord pressure, possibly involving implants or vertebrae fusion. Surgery can be approached from the front to remove discs and spurs or from the back for procedures like laminectomy or laminoplasty, which relieve spinal pressure.
All surgeries carry risks, including complications or infections from anesthesia, and are usually followed by rehabilitation programs.
