Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative condition that most often affects people over 50.

Causes of Cervical Spondylosis

The condition results when bones in the neck (cervical spine) progressively degenerate, resulting in bony spurs and problems with ligaments and discs. Over time, arthritis of the neck (cervical spondylosis) may also result. The spinal canal may narrow (stenosis) and compress the spinal cord and nerves to the arms. Injuries can also cause spinal cord compression.

Cervical Spondylosis Symptoms

Cervical spondylosis can lead to chronic pain and stiffness in the neck that may also radiate to the upper extremities. You may experience numbness and weakness in the arms, hands and fingers, and feel or hear grinding or popping in the neck when you move. Muscle spasms or headaches may originate in the neck. Symptoms may range from mild discomfort to severe, crippling dysfunction.

Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis

If symptoms are mild, your doctor may recommend a variety of non-surgical treatments, including: rest and the use of a soft cervical collar or neck brace to limit neck motion; medication with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory prescription; and physical therapy.

Surgical Options for Cervical Spondylosis

Surgery may be necessary if you have severe pain that does not improve with other treatments or progressive neurological symptoms. Surgery may remove bone spurs or disc material (decompression) and provide lasting relief.

Related Providers
Related Testimonials
  • Spinal Interventional Procedure "Dr. Charlu helps me manage pain without taking pain medicine." Provider: Balaji (Bobby) S Charlu MD
  • Spinal Interventional Procedure "Dr. Charlu is a great doctor and always explains everything to you. He is very caring." Provider: Balaji (Bobby) S Charlu MD
  • Cervical Discectomy "Dr. Gordon provides first class care!" Provider: Michael L Gordon MD
  • Total Hip Replacement "Nice office, nice people, good Doctor and immediate support staff. I can tell Dr. Mudiyam treats his employees well and that everyone there loves what they do." Provider: Ram Mudiyam MD
  • Laminectomy / Foraminotomy "Everyone in Dr. Mudiyam's office is very helpful and attentive, and Dr. Mudiyam himself is fantastic!" Provider: Ram Mudiyam MD
  • Spinal Injections Epidural/Facet "Dr. Charlu explains things so I understand and has helped me manage my pain issues well." Provider: Balaji (Bobby) S Charlu MD
  • Lumbar Decompression w/ Fusion (posterior) "I felt he could accomplish through surgery what he told me was possible in our first meeting." Provider: Richard S Lee MD
  • Lumbar Discectomy "Clear explanations every step of the way." Provider: Michael L Gordon MD
  • Spinal Interventional Procedure "The treatment was done quickly, efficiently and with minimal discomfort. Dr. Charlu really knows what he is doing and has a top-notch assistant. It was almost fun." Provider: Balaji (Bobby) S Charlu MD
  • Lumbar Discectomy "All staff were knowledgeable, responsive, helpful, and thorough. Process was smooth and efficient. Thank you!" Provider: Michael L Gordon MD
  • Spinal Interventional Procedure "Dr Safman is always caring, attentive to my concerns and an excellent doctor." Provider: Kimberly Safman MD
  • Cervical Discectomy "From surgery date to post surgery, the contact , concerns, and follow up has been excellent." Provider: Richard S Lee MD
Patient Reviews are anonymous and provided through GetWell, a HIPAA compliant patient engagement tool.
Related Videos
Related Blogs
Related Locations