Cervical spondylosis

Alternative names:

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.