What You Need to Know
Your back and spine take a lot of abuse over the years. Even the movements of everyday living can cause degenerative changes, arthritis, and other conditions. One common condition is known as cervical spondylosis.
affects your neck as you age. It is caused by wear and tear in the bones, discs, and other structures of the region known as the cervical spine.
The cervical spine consists of seven bones or vertebrae. This area of your spine supports the weight of your head and allows for a wide range of motion, making it particularly vulnerable to wear and tear over time.
Degenerative cervical spine changes are common in people over 60 and can contribute to a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to nerve-related issues and severe pain.
Cervical spondylosis is often linked to osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down over time. In cervical spondylosis, osteoarthritis is frequently the underlying cause of the pain, stiffness, and inflammation resulting in neck discomfort.
How Does Cervical Spondylosis Change the Spine?
As you age, several degenerative changes can occur:
- Age-related arthritis causes the cartilage that cushions the joints in your neck to wear down, leading to stiffness and pain.
- Discs between your vertebrae lose moisture, becoming thinner and less effective as shock absorbers. This can reduce the space between vertebrae and lead to increased friction and discomfort.
- The outer layer of your spinal discs can crack, potentially leading to , where the inner material pushes out and presses on nearby nerves.
- As the cartilage wears down, your body may form bone spurs, known as osteophytes, in an attempt to stabilize the spine. These spurs can press on nerves, leading to pain and neurological symptoms.
What Causes Cervical Spondylosis?
The primary cause of cervical spondylosis is the natural aging process. However, other factors can contribute to its development, including:
- Previous neck injuries
- High-level or high-impact athletic activities
- Heavy lifting
- Repetitive movements
- Carrying extra body weight
What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis?
Symptoms can vary widely. Some people may not experience any, while others may have significant discomfort. Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the neck that worsens with certain movements or prolonged activity
- Decreased neck flexibility and stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- A shooting or burning pain that radiates from the neck into the shoulders, arms, or hands
- A feeling of numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, or fingers
- Weakness in the arms or hands
- Pain that radiates to the back of the head or the forehead
- Loss of balance or coordination
What Are the Risk Factors for Cervical Spondylosis?
Several factors can increase your risk, such as:
- Age, especially over 60
- A family history of spinal conditions or osteoarthritis
- Previous neck injury
- Jobs or activities that require repetitive neck motions or heavy lifting
- A high body weight
- Smoking
- A sedentary lifestyle
How is Cervical Spondylosis Diagnosed?
If you’re having symptoms, your doctor will likely start with a physical exam and ask about your medical history. They may also recommend imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to see how much deterioration is happening in your spine and to determine if any nerves are being pinched.
Can Cervical Spondylosis Be Treated?
Treatment for cervical spondylosis depends on the severity of your symptoms and the extent of spinal degeneration. While conservative treatments won’t reverse the degenerative changes in your cervical spine, they can help manage symptoms. Initial options include:
- Avoiding activities that worsen your symptoms
- Exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your neck and increase flexibility
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or over-the-counter pain relievers
- Corticosteroid injections around the affected nerves or
If conservative treatments don’t relieve your symptoms, may be an option. The type of surgery will depend on the specific issues in your cervical spine, with the goal of relieving pressure on your nerves. Surgical options include:
- Removing bone spurs
- Removing a damaged disc to relieve nerve compression
- Spinal fusion
Seek Care for Cervical Spondylosis with Experienced Physicians
If you are experiencing symptoms of cervical spondylosis, schedule an appointment with one of our specialists today for a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to help manage your symptoms.
Don’t continue to suffer from chronic back pain – today!
