News

Search

Home > Specialties > Spine > Conditions > Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is a common degenerative condition of the cervical spine that most likely is caused by age-related changes in the intervertebral disks. 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, which form along the ventral aspect of the spinal canal.

Treatments:

The recommended treatment program for active spondylosis is usually a combination of the following:

• Bracing to immobilize the spine for a short period (e.g. 4 months) to allow the pars defect to heal
• Pain medications and/or anti-inflammatory medication, as needed
• Stretching, beginning with gentle hamstring stretching and progressing with additional stretches over time
• Exercise that is controlled and builds gradually over time, with restrictions on extension (bending backwards)

On rare occasions, spondylosis that is not healing or may have neurological components can require surgery to provide internal fixation and stability to the area, and if necessary, to reduce pressure on the nerves.

• Occasionally, a decompressive laminectomy may be needed to reduce pressure on the nerves in the area. This procedure tends to increase spinal instability.
• A spinal fusion may be needed to provide stabilization of the affected area of the spine.

If both a decompressive laminectomy and spinal fusion are needed, then both procedures are done as part of the same surgery.

View Physicians