Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical Osteoarthritis

Definition:

A disorder that results from abnormal growth of the bones of the neck (cervical vertebrae) and degeneration and mineral deposits in the cushions between the vertebrae (cervical disks).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Cervical spondylosis results from chronic degeneration of the cushions between the neck vertebrae (cervical disks) and mineral deposits (calcification) in the disks. There may be abnormal growths or "spurs" on the vertebrae (the bones of the spine).

This causes gradual compression of one or more of the nerve roots, resulting in progressive pain and movement or sensation abnormalities that resemble herniated cervical disk but are usually less severe. The spinal cord may be compressed (spinal cord trauma) with resultant movement or sensation or function losses of the areas controlled at and below the level of compression.

Risks include old neck injury (which may have occurred several years previously). However, the disorder also occurs commonly in older people who have no history of neck injury . It is thought to result from normal changes of aging.

Prevention:

Many cases are not preventable. Prevention of neck injury (such as proper equipment and techniques when playing sports) may reduce the risk.

Symptoms:

Neck pain (may radiate to the arms or shoulder)
Loss of sensation or abnormal sensations of the shoulder, arms, or (rarely) legs
Weakness of the arms or (rarely) legs
Difficulty moving the head, neck stiffness that progressively worsens
headaches, particularly in the back of the head
Loss of control of the bladder or bowels (if spinal cord is compressed)
loss of balance
Ear noise/buzzing
Muscle weakness (decreased muscle strength, independent of exercise) in the shoulders, arms, or hands

Signs and tests:

Progressive neck pain is a key indication of cervical spondylosis. It may be the only symptom in many cases. Examination often shows limited ability to flex the head toward the side (bend the head toward the shoulders) and limited ability to rotate the head. Weakness or sensation losses indicate damage to specific nerve roots or to the spinal cord. Reflexes are often reduced.

A spine or neck X-ray shows abnormalities that indicate cervical spondylosis.
A CT scan or spine MRI confirms the diagnosis.
A myelogram (X-ray or CT scan after injection of dye into the spinal column) may be recommended to clearly identify the extent of injury.
An EMG may also be recommended.

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is relief of pain and prevention of permanent spinal cord trauma and nerve root injury.

In mild cases, no treatment is required. Discomfort is minimal and often occurs only when triggered by specific head movements. Exercises to strengthen the neck may be recommended. Restriction of neck movement reduces pain. This is often accomplished with a cervical collar (neck brace). Intermittent neck traction may be recommended instead of, or in addition to, a cervical collar. This usually consists of a halter-like device placed on the head and neck and attached to pulleys and weights.

For severe cases, hospitalization with complete bedrest and traction for 1 or 2 weeks may be needed. Analgesics or muscle relaxants may help to reduce pain. Surgical decompression of the spinal cord in the neck may be recommended if there is significant loss of movement, sensation, or function. It may also be needed if pain is severe or if pain is unresponsive to other treatment. Surgical procedures may also include removal of abnormal bone growths, and stabilization of the neck with hardware or by fusion of the cervical vertebrae.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies Some cases are mild and never require treatment. Other cases are progressive and chronic. Some cases are severe. In a few cases, permanent disability results from compression of the spinal cord.

Complications:

Chronic neck pain
Progressive loss of muscle function or feeling
Permanent disability (occasional)
Inability to retain feces (fecal incontinence)
Unable to keep from leaking urine (urinary incontinence)

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if cervical spondylosis has been diagnosed and symptoms worsen, or if new symptoms develop such as loss of movement or sensation of an area of the body.

Unnatural straightening of the neck is maintained by muscle tightness and fixations of the joints in the neck. Traction helps loosen these tight joints and muscles. You should also be seeing a health care professional.

THIS PRODUCT IS NOT FOR RECENT SPRAIN / STRAIN INJURIES, OR ACUTE CONDITIONS.

Air Neck Pro Soft

REAL-Ease Neck Traction and Relaxer

Air Neck Traction IV