Cervical spondylosis (arthritis severe neck)

Neck | Orthopaedics | Cervical spondylosis (arthritis severe neck) (Disease)


Description

Cervical spondylosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal wear on the cartilage and bones of the neck called the cervical vertebrae. These modifications later contribute to the development of cervical osteoarthritis in the joints that links neck bones.

Symptoms often develop slowly over time, but they may start or get worse suddenly. The pain may be mild, or it can be deep and so severe that you are unable to move. Beside neck pain, signs and symptoms of cervical spondylosis may include: shoulder, arm or chest pain; tingling and pinprick sensations in your arms, hands, legs or feet; numbness and weakness in your arms, hands, legs or feet; lack of coordination; difficulty walking; abnormal reflexes; loss of bladder or bowel control, or urinary or bowel retention. Cervical spondylosis is the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in older adults.

Causes and Risk factors

Cervical spondylosis is caused by chronic wear on the cervical spine. The major risk factor is aging. By age 60, most women and men develop signs of cervical spondylosis on x-ray. Other factors that increase the risk to develop spondylosis are: being overweight and not exercising; having a job that requires heavy lifting or a lot of bending and twisting; past neck injury; past spine surgery; ruptured or slipped disk; severe arthritis; small fractures to the spine from osteoporosis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis to confirm cervical spondylosis include physical exam, among with a spine X-ray, Computer Tomography (CT) scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Treatment is usually conservative in nature. Physical therapy may be effective for restoring range of motion, flexibility, and core strengthening and anti-inflammatory drugs controls the pain.

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