If you’ve been experiencing neck pain, stiffness, or even discomfort in your arms and hands, you may be dealing with a condition known as cervical spondylotic disease. It’s a common ailment, particularly among individuals as they age, and it affects the cervical spine – the portion of the spine in your neck. If you’ve felt like your neck pain is only getting worse over time, or if you’ve noticed tingling, weakness, or numbness in your arms or hands, it’s important to understand what’s going on in your body and how you can get the help you need to feel better. This blog will give you an in-depth look at cervical spondylotic disease, its causes, symptoms, and the available treatment options. By the end, you'll have the information you need to make informed decisions about your health and seek care from a specialist who can help you manage this condition effectively.
Cervical spondylotic disease is a term used to describe the natural wear and tear that happens in the spine as we age. Specifically, it refers to degenerative changes in the portion of your spine at your neck known as the cervical spine. Over time, the discs between the vertebrae in the neck lose their flexibility, water content, and shock-absorbing qualities. The degeneration of these discs can lead to bone spur formation which can result in nerve compression and irritation.
Although the term "spondylotic" may sound complex, it simply refers to changes in the bones and discs of the spine. As these changes occur, sometimes they can lead to a spectrum of symptoms that have potential to disrupt your daily life.
Cervical spondylotic disease is primairly caused by the natural aging process. What happens as you age is the discs in your spine gradually lose hydration and this causes them to begin to shrink. When they shrink, it can cause the vertebrae in your neck to shift, putting added pressure on the surrounding nerves and tissues. In some cases, bone spurs or herniated discs can form as the body attempts to compensate for these changes.
While the natural aging process is the primary cause of cervical spondylosis, other factors can contribute to its development. These include:
Genetics can play a role in the likelihood of developing cervical spondylotic disease. Because of this, some people can be more prone to developing it.
Previous injuries to the neck, such as whiplash, can speed up the degenerative process in the cervical spine.
Jobs or hobbies that involve frequent or repetitive neck movements (such as working on a computer or lifting heavy objects) can contribute to the development of this condition.
Smoking, poor posture, and lack of exercise can all increase the risk of cervical spondylosis.
Cervical spondylotic disease can cause a variety of symptoms that may affect your neck, arms, and even your upper back. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person, and some individuals may not even experience noticeable discomfort until their condition progresses further.
Common symptoms of cervical spondylotic disease include:
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Ignoring these signs can lead to further damage and potentially more severe complications in the future.
If you suspect that you have cervical spondylotic disease, it’s crucial to see a healthcare provider, ideally an orthopaedic specialist, who can accurately diagnose the condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan for you. Your doctor will review your medical history and do a physical exam to assess the range of motion in your neck, check for any tenderness, and may perform neurological tests to evaluate reflexes, strength, and sensation in your arms and hands.
To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following imaging tests:
X-rays: An X-ray of the cervical spine can show signs of degeneration, such as disc narrowing, bone spurs, or changes in the vertebrae.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI proovides more detailed images of the soft tissues which includes discs, nerves, and the spinal cord. It can help identify any herniated discs, nerve compression, or other issues.
CT scan: A CT scan provides a detailed view of the bones in the cervical spine and may be used when an MRI is not possible or to get a clearer picture of bone changes.
Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity in your muscles and can help determine if nerve damage is present.
Once a diagnosis is made, your doctor will discuss various treatment options with you. The goal of treatment is to manage your symptoms, improve your mobility, and prevent further degeneration. In most cases, nonsurgical treatments are effective for managing cervical spondylosis.
Physical therapy can often be the first line of treatment for cervical spondylotic disease. A physical therapist will work with you to strengthen the muscles surrounding your neck and spine, improve posture, and teach you exercises to increase flexibility and range of motion.
Therapists may also use techniques such as traction to relieve pressure on the spine or heat and cold therapy which can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce you pain and inflammation in the neck. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants or stronger pain medications if the discomfort is severe. This is something youwould want to discuss with your care provider.
For nerve-related symptoms, such as tingling or numbness, oral steroids or corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation around the nerves and alleviate symptoms.
If conservative treatments aren’t providing enough relief, your doctor may recommend a cervical epidural steroid injection. This involves injecting a corticosteroid into the space around the spinal cord to reduce inflammation and lower pain.
Surgery is generally considered a last resort for individuals with severe symptoms that don’t respond to nonsurgical treatments. Surgical options may include:
Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery and help you decide whether it’s the right choice for you.
If you’ve been dealing with chronic neck pain or symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or hands, it’s important to seek care from a specialist. Seeking care early can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life. A spine specialist can evaluate your condition and work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
You don't have to stay in pain. Contact one of our ONJ divisions to schedule an appointment.
Cervical spondylotic disease is a common condition that can cause you pain and discomfort in you neck, arms, and hands, often due to the natural aging process. While the condition can be frustrating, there are man options for effective treatments to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you’re experiencing neck pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness, don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. Schedule with one of ONJ's specialists today to get a diagnosis so you can start a treatment plan and get back to feeling better.
Your health is important, and with the right care, you can manage cervical spondylotic disease and get back to living your life with less pain and more mobility.
