Spondylosis - Cervical Spondylosis

In spondylosis there is a spinal degeneration of a discs or spinal joints. There are two types of spondylosis are as Cervical Spondylosis and Lumbar Spondylosis.

Cervical Spondylosis : Cervical spondylosis is caused by abnormal wear on the cartilage and bones of the neck (cervical vertebrae) with degeneration and mineral deposits in the cushions between the vertebrae (cervical disks).

CAUSESOF CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS :-

1.Injury :cervical spondylosis can be caused by previous injury, repeated fractures or dislocations of the joints of neck. These cause abnormal tear of joints, ligaments and the structures surrounding the joints.

2.Bad Posture: Incorrect posture adapted by habit or due to poor skeletal set up in the neck predisposes abnormal tear of the neck joints.

3.Occupational strain : The physical discomfort, physical strain, intensity of work and duration of working hours all constitutes the occupational strain.

4.Body type : Body type also predisposes cervical spondylosis

- Thick necks with hump at the back

- Long backs

5.Life style: The various styles of activity adapted in daily life can cause strain or tear of the structures of the neck and lead to cervical spondylosis. An example is awkward positions adapted while sleeping.

What are the symptoms of spondylosis?

- Neck pain (may radiate to the arms or shoulder)

- Loss of sensation or abnormal sensations of the shoulders, arms, or (rarely) legs

- Weakness of the arms or (rarely) legs

- Neck stiffness that progressively worsens

- Loss of balance

- Headaches, particularly in the back of the head

- Loss of control of the bladder or bowels (if spinal cord is compressed)

A pain in the neck or in the lumbar region that continues to get worse is a sign of cervical spondylosis.

A spine X-ray shows the abnormalities that indicate the cervical spondylosis. A CT scan or spine MRI confirms the diagnosis. Myleogram may also recommended for clearly identify the extent of injury.

No treatment is required. Symptoms from cervical spondylosis usually stabilize or get better with simple, conservative therapy, including:

- A cervical collar (neck brace) worn for a short period of time to restrict motion

- Cortisone injections to specific areas of irritation

- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)