Cervical Spondylosis Symptoms: Identifying Spine Degeneration

Neck Pain & Stiffness: Identifying Cervical Spondylosis Early

Cervical spondylosis refers to the age-related deterioration of the spinal discs and vertebrae in the neck region. As these discs dry out and become thinner over time, symptoms similar to osteoarthritis begin to appear, most notably, the development of bony outgrowths called bone spurs.

This condition is prevalent, especially as people age. Studies suggest that over 85% of individuals over the age of 60 show evidence of cervical spondylosis. The symptoms of cervical spondylosis are usually very mild or, in some cases, even nonexistent. 

However, when cervical spondylosis symptoms are present, they can often be treated quite effectively with non-surgical treatment. Keep reading to learn about this condition in-depth.

What are the Common Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis?

Most individuals with cervical spondylosis have no issues at all. However, when symptoms of cervical spondylosis develop, they can vary significantly in intensity and may develop gradually or arise suddenly.

Shoulder blade pain is one of the most common indications. Others might suffer pain radiating down to the fingers from the arm. These aches intensify during some activities, including:

• Maintaining one position for a long time (e.g., prolonged sitting or standing)
• Sustained sitting posture
• Coughing or sneezing
• Pushing the head back

The second common symptom is muscle weakness, making lifting arms or holding things tightly difficult.

Some of the other common symptoms of cervical spondylosis are:

• A firm neck that worsens over time
• Headaches, predominantly at the back of the head
• Numbness or tingling predominantly in the shoulders and arms, and sometimes the legs

Less frequent but more severe symptoms can include problems with balance or loss of bladder or bowel control. These symptoms, or overall symptoms in all patients, must be considered medical emergencies and are urgently in need of assessment.

What are the Causes of Cervical Spondylosis?

The vertebrae and supportive tissues that make up the spine and neck area typically deteriorate throughout life. This gradual process results in a variety of structural changes, including:

• Dehydration of the Discs: The discs between the bones in the spine, which are shock absorbers, dry out and reduce in size by age 40. This raises the friction between bones.
• Herniation of the Discs: Small cracks can develop in the outer casing of spinal discs with age. The soft inner core may bulge through the cracks, potentially compressing nerves or the spinal cord.
• Bone Spur Formation: As the discs deteriorate, the body forms extra bone to stabilise the spine. The spurs can compress spinal nerves, causing pain and other symptoms.
• Hardening of Ligaments: Ligaments that bind bones together tend to lose their elasticity over time, which reduces the neck's flexibility.

What are the Risk Factors of Cervical Spondylosis?

Various factors increase the risk of developing cervical spondylosis symptoms. They are as follows:
 

• Advanced Age: The condition is mainly due to age and tends to occur more among older individuals.
• Occupational Stress: Repetitive neck movement, overhead work, or poor posture can contribute to the development of symptoms and may hasten the degenerative process.
• Spot Injury to the Neck: Those with a history of neck injury are at higher risk of developing premature spondylosis.
• Genetic Factors: Genetic inheritance of spine diseases can make some individuals predisposed to manifest symptoms of cervical spondylosis earlier or more severely.
• Smoking: Smoking has been a proven link to augmented neck pain, which can support cervical spondylosis symptoms specifically.

What is the Diagnosis of Cervical Spondylosis?

Health professionals start with a physical examination to determine whether an individual suffers from cervical spondylosis. They will most often enquire about any history of neck injury and elaborate details about the current symptoms.

During the test, the practitioner will also examine the neck, shoulders, arms, and legs for mobility, muscle power, reflexes, and coordination. For the confirmation of the diagnosis and determination of the extent of the spinal changes, the following tests can be performed:

• Imaging Scans: X-rays, MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging), and CT (computed tomography) scans provide detailed images of bones, discs, and nerves in the neck region. These devices detect abnormalities such as bone spurs or disc degeneration.
• Myelography: During this test, a contrast dye is injected into the spinal canal. A CT scan is then done to see how the nerve roots and bone spurs communicate.
• Electromyography (EMG): This test measures how nerve impulses move from the spinal cord to other muscles, showing where the nerve damage is.

What is the Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis?

Treatment of cervical spondylosis is symptomatic, anti-inflammatory, and functional. Standard treatment options involve:

• Medicines: General over-the-counter drugs such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen or naproxen relieve pain and inflammation. In some cases, physicians may also prescribe muscle relaxants or certain medications for nerve pain or spasms.
• Physical Therapy: A physiotherapist can develop a customised exercise regimen to stabilise neck muscles, increase flexibility, and encourage proper posture. Manual therapy, such as massage or manipulation, can also relax tight muscles and enhance movement.
• Heat and Cold Therapy: Hot or cold packs can be applied to the neck to alleviate inflammation and pain. Alternating between the two can be even more beneficial.
• Collar or Neck Braces: Short-term use of a soft cervical collar may be recommended during acute flare-ups to provide rest and limit painful motion. However, prolonged use is discouraged as it can lead to muscle weakening. A physical therapist can advise on proper use.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be directly injected into the involved region of the neck to manage inflammation and alleviate pain. To ensure accuracy, they are frequently image-guided using techniques such as fluoroscopy.
• Surgery: If other treatments fail or the symptoms are severe, surgery may be an option. Some procedures can include the removal of bone spurs, decompression or relief of compressed nerves, or spinal fusion.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Adopting healthier habits, such as improved posture, preventing neck strain, stopping smoking, and maintaining proper weight, is one way to assist in long-term control of the symptoms and prevention of wear and tear on the spine.

Talk to your physician about the best nonsurgical treatment for your symptoms. In some instances, medication plus physiotherapy works best.

Cervical spondylosis is a common age-related health condition that can be severe if left untreated. The cost of treatment varies depending on the therapies required. First-line treatments like physical therapy and medication are typically manageable, while advanced options like injections or surgery are more significant investments. It is advisable to discuss treatment plans and associated costs with your doctor.