Cervical Spondylosis (Neck Arthritis)

Cervical Spondylosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Have you experienced neck pain or stiffness? If so, you may be dealing with cervical spondylosis. This condition refers to the natural wear and tear on the neck’s spinal discs and joints, affecting up to 85% of people over 65. Cervical spondylosis can cause pain, headaches, and other symptoms as the cartilage in the neck wears down.

At Orthopedic Institute, our team of specialists helps many patients with cervical spondylosis manage their pain and improve their quality of life.

d rendered medically accurate illustration of a woman having a painful neck

Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis

Symptoms of cervical spondylosis can vary, but some common signs include:

  • Neck pain: Can range from mild to severe, often worsening in the morning or at the end of the day.
  • Headaches: Frequently felt at the base of the skull.
  • Neck stiffness: Inactivity can cause stiffness and discomfort.
  • Popping or grinding sounds: This can happen as the cartilage in the neck joints breaks down.
  • Reduced range of motion: You may notice limited neck movement.
  • Muscle tightness or spasms: The muscles around the neck may feel tight or fatigued.
  • Nerve symptoms: Pinched nerves in the neck can cause arm pain, numbness, tingling, or even weakness.

If left untreated, some patients may also experience balance problems or weakness in the arms and legs.

Causes of Cervical Spondylosis

Several factors can increase the risk of developing cervical spondylosis:

  • Age: The most common cause, with symptoms often starting in your 40s or 50s.
  • Genetics: If family members have cervical spondylosis, you may be more likely to develop it.
  • Injury or surgery: Past trauma or surgeries can speed up the degeneration process.
  • Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to increased neck pain and arthritis.
  • Occupation: Jobs that involve repetitive neck movements or heavy lifting can contribute to degeneration.

Evaluation: Diagnosing Cervical Spondylosis

When you visit an orthopedic specialist, they will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. Diagnostic tools may include:

  • X-rays: Help visualize bones and check for any disc or joint damage.
  • MRI: Provides a detailed look at your discs, nerves, and spinal cord, useful for diagnosing pinched nerves.
  • CT scans: Offer a closer look at bone structures in the spine.
  • Blood tests: Used to rule out autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment Options for Cervical Spondylosis

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Most cases do not require surgery, and non-surgical treatments can effectively reduce pain and discomfort.

Non-surgical Treatments

  • Physical therapy: Strengthening the neck muscles can help reduce stress on the spine and improve flexibility.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications: These can help reduce pain and swelling in the neck.
  • Activity modification: Avoiding heavy lifting and repetitive neck motions can help.
  • Injections: Steroid injections or nerve blocks can reduce inflammation and pain caused by arthritis or pinched nerves.
  • Other treatments: Some patients find relief with alternative therapies like acupuncture, dry needling, or chiropractic care.

Feeling anxious about an injection?

Getting the care you need should not be stressful. Orthopedic Institute now offers nitrous oxide to help you relax during your procedure. Ask your provider today if nitrous oxide could be right for you.

At Orthopedic Institute, the doctors focus on creating a treatment plan that avoids surgery whenever possible. Patients improve within 6-12 weeks of non-surgical treatment.

Surgical Options

If non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be an option. Procedures focus on relieving nerve pressure, often improving symptoms like arm pain or weakness. Depending on your situation, the surgery may be performed from the front or back of the neck.

Surgeons at Orthopedic Institute are highly skilled in these procedures and will guide you through the process if surgery becomes necessary.

Recovery from Cervical Spondylosis

Recovery depends on the type of treatment you receive. If you undergo surgery, here is what to expect:

  • Follow-up visits: Typically scheduled 2-3 weeks after surgery to check the incision and healing progress.
  • Activity restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or twisting for up to three months.
  • Pain management: It is common to experience some neck pain during the recovery period.
  • Physical therapy: Often starts a couple of weeks post-surgery to help restore strength and mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cervical Spondylosis at Orthopedic Institute

At Orthopedic Institute, our board-certified spine specialists are experienced in diagnosing and treating cervical spondylosis. Our goal is to create a personalized treatment plan that helps reduce pain and improve mobility. Whether you are seeking non-surgical treatments or considering surgery, we’re here to support your recovery every step of the way.

For expert care and effective treatment in the greater Sioux Falls area, contact Orthopedic Institute today.