Arthritis of the Neck: Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical Spondylosis is a form of arthritis that is caused by the degeneration of the bones of the neck and cushions between the vertebrae. This degeneration puts pressure on the spinal cord in the neck and leads to chronic pain and stiffness in the neck. It is the most common condition of the neck that can affect the spinal cord. It has also been referred to as cervical osteoarthritis, neck arthritis and degenerative disk disease of the neck.

Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis include neck pain and stiffness, numbness and weakness of arms, hands and fingers, trouble walking because of weakness or loss of balance, grinding or popping sound or sensation in neck when moving, muscle spasms, headaches, loss of or abnormal sensation in arms, legs or shoulders. A change in walking is usually the first sign. Progressive neck pain is the key indication of Cervical Spondylosis and in most cases is the only symptom.

Tests that are used to diagnose Cervical Spondylosis are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, X-rays and neck flexibility tests. An MRI is used to see bone spurs and other anatomical changes that are caused by the disease and they provide more information than other tests, but X-rays will show narrowing of the canal and disk space and the presence of arthritis. Neck flexibility tests are used to identify the instability in the neck. Types of tests include tilting head to either side and rotating the head to either side.

Mild cases of Cervical Spondylosis are treated by wearing a neck brace, taking nosteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy. More serious cases are treated by hospitalization with bed rest and traction, taking muscle relaxants and corticosteroid medication injections into the joints. If the pain doesn't improve with conservative treatments then surgery may be required.

Complications of Cervical Spondylosis include chronic neck pain, progressive loss of muscle feeling or function, inability to retain feces and urinary incontinence.

The only way to prevent this form of arthritis or any other is to avoid being overweight and maintain healthy bones and joints by including calcium, vitamin C and vitamin D in your diet.

Cervical Spondylosis is primarily due to aging and usually begins between the ages of 30 and 40. It affects men and women equally, but men usually develop the disease at an earlier age than women. The only risk factors for developing the disease are a previous neck injury and aging. There is no cure for any type of arthritis, but it is possible to keep it under control.