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Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis is a common degenerative condition of the cervical spine that is caused by age-related changes in the intervertebral disks (cushions between the vertebrae) and facet joints (the small joints in the back of the neck). Clinically, several syndromes, both overlapping and distinct, are seen: neck and shoulder pain, suboccipital pain and headache, radicular symptoms, and cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). As disk degeneration occurs, mechanical stresses result in osteophytic bars (bone spurs), which form along the ventral aspect (front) of the spinal canal (tube containing the spinal cord).
Treatment
Treatment of cervical spondylosis is designed to reduce pain and irritation to the spinal cord and nerves, while also improving the ability of the patient to participate in normal, everyday activities. Recommended treatment programs usually consist of the following:
*Bracing. Designed to immobilize the spine for short periods to allow inflammation to subside.
*Stretching. These should start with a gentle stretching of all the major muscle groups of the neck.
*Exercise. Specifically designed to build strength in the major muscle groups of the neck.
*Medication. Designed to reduce inflammation, lessen pain and stop nerve irritation.
In some cases, cervical spondylosis may lead to compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots resulting in neurological dysfunction and progressive deterioration. Although this is relatively rare, surgery is indicated in such a situation to remove compression from the nerve tissue (spinal cord and/or nerve roots) and to restore stability to the cervical spine.
Surgery, depending on the situation, may be achieved through either an anterior (front), posterior (back) or combined approach. After relieving the spinal cord and/or nerve compression, the spine is reconstructed by placing bone between the involved vertebra and performing a spinal fusion. Special implants may also be placed to restore the stability of the spinal column and assist in healing of the spinal fusion. |
