Cervical Spondylosis: Treatment, Risks, Causes and Symptoms
Suffering from cervical spondylosis? Want to know in detail about this neck condition? Read this highly informative blog to get a detailed overview of what is cervical spondylosis, its risk factors, causes, common symptoms, cervical spondylosis treatment options & preventive measures. Let’s get started!
What is cervical spondylosis?
A very common condition in senior citizens, cervical spondylosis is a general term used for age-related wear & tear that primarily affects the spinal discs in the neck region. It basically comprises the natural deterioration of discs, ligaments, cartilage & bones in the neck. This typically results in neck stiffness, pain and related symptoms. In chronic cases, cervical spondylosis may comprise a herniated disc, bone spurs or pinched nerves.
Who is most at risk of getting cervical spondylosis?
Following are the risk factors associated with cervical spondylosis:
- Age above 60 years
- Family history of cervical spondylosis
- Long-term neck strain
- Prior neck injury or trauma
- Regular heavy lifting
- Cigarette smoking
- Anxiety or depression
- Regular exposure to a large amount of vibration, such as bus/truck drivers
What causes cervical spondylosis?
Also sometimes referred to as arthritis/osteoarthritis of the neck, cervical spondylosis may be caused by wear & tear related changes like:
- Discs degeneration
- Herniated discs
- Dehydrated discs
- Bone spurs
- Ligaments stiffness
- Osteoarthritis
Most common cervical spondylosis symptoms
Many individuals with cervical spondylosis don’t experience any symptoms at all. In case the symptoms arise, they may include:
- Neck stiffness and/or pain
- Aching soreness in the neck region
- Muscle spasms in the neck & shoulders
- Headaches
- Clicking/grinding/popping noise when moving the neck
- Dizziness, absence of coordination and loss of balance
- Weakness & numbness in the legs, feet, arms, hands or fingers
What are common cervical spondylosis treatments?
In the majority of instances, cervical spondylosis can be treated via conservative treatment options such as ice & heat therapy, massage, physical therapy and spinal decompression treatment. Let’s check them out one by one.
Ice, heat and massage
A combination of massage with ice & heat therapy can help alleviate the symptoms of cervical spondylosis. Application of heat/ice to the neck area for around 20 minutes many times during the day may help provide favourable results. Massage by a certified professional might also assist in relieving symptoms such as neck pain and stiffness.
Physical therapy
Personalised neck muscle strengthening, as well as stretching exercises, may help ease the various symptoms of cervical spondylosis while also enhancing the posture of the forward head and back.
What are the best ways to prevent cervical spondylosis?
Preventing cervical spondylosis is not possible since it’s an age-related condition. However, precautions such as not smoking, maintaining proper posture, avoiding awkward neck positions, and doing regular neck exercises may help reduce the risk of cervical spondylosis.
Conclusion
Do you know over 85% of people above 60 years of age are affected by cervical spondylosis? However, the majority of these people don’t experience any symptoms whatsoever. If you are experiencing any cervical spondylosis symptoms, then get in touch with the Spine Specialists at ANSSI Wellness Centre for an Expert Consultation. Click here to schedule an appointment:
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