Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative condition that affects the neck vertebrae and joints. It affects both men and women over age 40, but usually develops in men at an earlier age than women. According to MedHelp.org, 70 percent of women and 85 percent of men show signs of cervical spondylosis in an X-ray by age 60.
Definiton
Cervical spondylosis, also known as cervical osteoarthritis, is the wear and tear of vertebrae in the neck that comes with aging. The bone and cartilage deteriorate and form bone spurs, which can compress the spinal cord and cause narrowing of the spinal canal. Compression of the nerves may cause temporary or permanent nerve damage.
Causes
As people age, the spinal and cervical disks dry out and lose elasticity, and ligaments that connect bones and muscles in the neck stiffen. A neck injury increases the risk of developing cervical spondylosis.
Symptoms
The most common symptom is pain and stiffness in the neck. Other symptoms include tingling sensations in the arms and hands, pain that radiates into the shoulder, arm or chest. Some people may experience headaches that are located in the back of the head. If the spinal cord is being compressed, there may be numbness and weakness in the arms and hands.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cervical spondylosis is based on a patient's medical history, physical exam and symptoms. If the physician suspects cervical spondylosis, he may order tests to confirm the diagnosis. The most common tests used in diagnosis include magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography scan, and X-rays of the neck. A cervical myelogram is a test that uses a special dye injected into neck to identify clearly any abnormalities such as disk herniation, or narrowing of the spinal canal.
Treatment
Mild cases of cervical spondylosis are treated by using anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, a soft or firm neck brace to limit movement of the neck, and exercises to strengthen the neck muscles. More severe cases are treated with cortisone injections in the joints between the vertebrae, and muscle relaxants. If there is too much pressure on the spinal cord, the physician may hospitalize the patient for bed rest and traction on the neck. When all other treatments fail, surgery may be needed.
Tags: spinal cord, arms hands, cervical spondylosis, most common, narrowing spinal, narrowing spinal canal, spinal canal