What is cervical spondylosis?
 With growing age , the bones and the discs will degenerate. Bone spurs (osteophytes) may form and spinal canal may narrow (stenosis). These changes are known as cervical spondylosis.

What are the symptoms?

• Neck pain
• Constant deep ache that radiates over the shoulder and down to the arms, hands and fingers.
• Numbness or weakness of the arms, hands, fingers or legs
• Muscles spasm, neck stiffness
• Headache
• Difficulty in walking
• Dropping objects and difficulty in buttoning shirts.

What investigation do I need?
X-rays and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) studies are helpful. EMG and NCV is some times required

What are the treatment options?

• Rest - In the acute phase, you may need to wear a cervical collar to limit neck movement and relieve the nerve irritation.
• Medication - (NSAIDs) or other pain relievers TENS can also help.
• Surgery - Anterior or posterior surgery may be required if there is cord compression.

 
PREVENTION
There is no specific way to prevent this condition. However, some lifestyle modifications may slow the process of the degeneration.

 

Lifestyle Modifications include:

• Regular strengthening and flexibility exercises for neck and back muscles
• Regular aerobic exercises e.g. running, swimming, cycling
• Postural awareness to maintain good posture
• Workplace modifications to reduce stress to the back and neck
• Quit smoking
• Maintain healthy weight range

 

CERVICAL DISC REPLACEMENT AS A TREATMENT OPTION
32 year old male with neck pain. In young adult aim of surgery is to preserve motion. Underwent cervical disc replacement.

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion as a treatment option.