Cervical spondylosis
Alternative names:
cervical osteoarthritis
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:
Calling your health care provider:
Apply home treatment and call your health care provider if there are signs of complications.
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.
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