 |
| Cervical Spondylosis Treatment |
Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative disease affecting the spinal discs and
joints in the neck. It commonly occurs due to wear and tear associated with
aging. The following article discusses the causes, symptoms and various
treatment options available for cervical spondylosis.
Causes of Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis is usually a chronic, progressive degeneration of the
cervical discs and facet joints. Some common causes include:
Aging: The cervical discs begin to dry out and lose elasticity as we grow
older, making the spine more susceptible to injuries and stress. This is the
most common cause of cervical spondylosis.
Wear and tear: Repetitive strain on the neck from activities like manual labor,
sports or improper posture can exacerbate disc degeneration over time.
Injuries: Traumatic injury to the neck such as fall, whiplash or physical
assault can damage spinal structures and lead to premature spondylosis.
Congenital defects: Some people may be born with narrower spinal canals which
can predispose them to spondylosis due to nerve impingement.
Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
The common symptoms of cervical spondylosis include:
Neck pain - Usually described as a dull, throbbing ache in the neck that may
radiate to shoulders, arms or hands. Pain is often worsened by neck movements.
Stiffness and restricted movement of the neck
Tingling, numbness or weakness in arms and hands
Headaches - Frequently felt in the back of the head and neck area.
Shoulder or arm pain
Dizziness or problems with balance in severe cases due to nerve pressure.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis
Mild to moderate cases of cervical spondylosis are often initially treated
through non-surgical measures:
Physical therapy and exercises - Stretching and neck strengthening exercises
help improve mobility and alleviate pain.
Pain medications - Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen
or topical heat/cold therapy may relieve pain and inflammation.
Lifestyle changes - Proper ergonomics, avoiding prolonged phone/computer use
and adopting a healthy posture can reduce strain on the neck.
Cervical traction - Devices that gently pull on the head and neck can
decompress the spine in some cases.
Epidural steroid injections - Anti-inflammatory corticosteroids injected into
the epidural space may temporarily relieve arm/neck pain.
Alternative therapies - Acupuncture, yoga, chiropractic treatment and massage
are also beneficial adjuncts for cervical spondylosis.
Surgical Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis
When conservative Cervical
Spondylosis Treatment fails to alleviate severe and persistent pain or
neurological deficits, surgery may be recommended:
Laminectomy - Removal of part of lamina bone pressing on spinal cord/nerves to
relieve their compression.
Discectomy - Removes damaged discs pressing on nerves. Sometimes a fusion
procedure is also performed.
Corpectomy - Specially indicated ifvertebral body is eroding into the spinal
canal. The involved vertebra is partiallyremoved.
Foraminotomy - Enlarging the openings where spinal nerves exit vertebrae to
reduce pressure/pinching.
Vertebral fusion surgery - When an unstable segment of neck is causing issues,
fusion with bone graft and plates/screws is performed for stability.
Artificial disc replacement - As an alternative to fusion, the damaged disc can
be removed and replaced by an artificial prosthetic disc in some cases.
Outcomes of Cervical Spondylosis Treatment
With appropriate non-surgical or surgical treatment guided by symptoms and
diagnostic tests, most cervical spondylosis patients find considerable relief
from pain and improved quality of life. However, complete cure is usually not
possible as it is a degenerative process. Even after surgery, exercises and
lifestyle modifications should be continued to maximizelong term benefits. With
proper management, the condition can usually be controlled effectively to allow
for an active lifestyle.
cervical spondylosis is a common health issue affecting the aging population.
While non-surgical options work well for mild cases, more advanced spondylosis
may necessitate surgical decompression or stabilization procedures. With a
combination of medical, physical and mindfulness-based approaches, long-term
control of the condition can be achieved in vast majority of people.
Get More Insights On This Topic: Cervical
Spondylosis Treatment