Cervical Spondylosis (Severe Neck Arthritis)
Description
Severe arthritis of the neck. This arthritis occurs because of the extensive motion that occurs in the neck. All patients experience some wear and tear of the neck joints as they age but some have more severe damage causing significant pain and loss of function. As the arthritis develops there can be the development of bone spurs, or osteophytes. The rough edges of these bone spurs can irritate the nearby nerves, ligaments and muscles causing pain. Spodylosis is one of the most common causes of pain in the elderly.
Symptoms
Neck pain, increased neck pain with movement, neck stiffness, numbness, weakness.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray, CT scan and/or MRI will be done to identify the extent of the degeneration.
- X-Ray
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Therapy depends on the extent of the disease and symptoms. Treatment includes: pain medications, muscle relaxants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen (Tylenol), exercise and physical therapy. Surgery is considered for persistent pain, loss of sensation, or weakness.
Related Videos
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Cervical spondylosis (Severe neck arthritis)?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.