Cervical spondylosis also known as degenerative osteoarthritis is a condition that causes neck pain and stiffness. Also known as cervical osteoarthritis, the condition usually appears in men and women older than 40 and progresses with age. Cervical spondylosis affects both sexes, but men usually develop it at an earlier age than women. Cervical spondylosis usually affects middle-aged and older people. The changes that accompany the degeneration, such as developing abnormal growths (bone spurs) on the spine, can lead to pressure on the spinal nerves and, sometimes, the spinal cord itself. Over the years, the vertebrae (bones in the neck) undergo 'wear and tear' which can lead to cervical spondylosis. Mild cases of cervical spondylosis often require no treatment or may respond to conservative treatment, including wearing a neck brace and taking pain medication. More severe cases of cervical spondylosis, however, particularly those involving pressure on the spinal nerves or cord, may require treatment ranging from neck traction to stronger medications to surgery.

Cervical spondylosis is a chronic degeneration of the bones (vertebrae) of the neck (cervical spine) and the cushions between the vertebrae (disks). spinal canal may narrow (stenosis) and compress the spinal cord and nerves to the arms. The degeneration in cervical spondylosis most likely is a result of wear and tear on the neck bones as you age. In addition to pressing on the nerves they may also press on blood vessels temporarily blocking blood flow. When someone with cervical spondylosis turns their head quickly this obstructs blood flow causing them to feel dizzy, faint, and sometimes to see double. The symptoms can be treated with simple painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines that ease pain and discomfort. With aging, the bone of the spine overgrows and narrows the spinal canal in the neck. As a result, the spinal cord or the spinal nerve roots (the part of spinal nerves located next to the cord (see How the Spine Is Organized ) are compressed, causing dysfunction.

Causes of Cervical Spondylosis

The common Causes of Cervical Spondylosis :

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.
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 .
These body types are more prone to cause strain or tear of the neck tisues.

Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis

Some Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis :

Headaches.
Loss of sensation or abnormal sensations of the shoulders, arms, or (rarely) legs.
Neck stiffness that progressively worsens.
Loss of balance.
Weakness of the arms or (rarely) legs.
Neck pain (may radiate to the arms or shoulder).

Treatment of Cervical Spondylosis

Wearing a neck brace (cervical collar) during the day to help limit neck motion and reduce nerve irritation.
Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) for pain relief.
Doing exercises prescribed by a physical therapist to strengthen neck muscles and stretch the neck and shoulders. Low-impact aerobic exercise, such as walking or water aerobics, also may help.
Injecting corticosteroid medications into the joints between the vertebrae (facet joints). The injection combines corticosteroid medication with local anesthetic to reduce pain and inflammation.
Taking muscle relaxants, such as methocarbamol (Robaxin) or cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), particularly if neck muscle spasms occur, and taking narcotic medications to relieve severe pain.
Can help relieve symptoms and strengthen neck and shoulder muscles. Low-impact aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming, may also be beneficial.

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