Causes and risk factors
Wear and tear or degeneration of the cartilages as the age advances is the most common cause. Any strain to the neck either due to trauma or overuse is another contributing factor. Keeping the neck in one posture while reading or writing, riding bike for long distances along with use of helmets are some of the predisposing factors. Genetic inheritance and smoking has also been linked in causing cervical spondylosis.
Clinical presentation:
Symptoms develop gradually. Pain is the characteristic feature. It is accompanied by stiffness of neck. Headache particularly in occipital region is seen. Pain may vary from person to person. It is dull aching type which radiated to the shoulder and back. As the disc compresses it can lay pressures on the nerves leading to Tingling and numbness and clumsiness in the hands. Difficulty in movement like walking, standing, sitting is experienced by the patient. Muscle weakness, malaise and tenderness are also present. It can also lead to bladder dysfunction.
Investigations:
Diagnosis is done of the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. Certain physical tests can be done. Investigations which can be done are X-ray of the cervical spine. MRI or CT scan can be done to find out the nerve entrapment.
Treatment:
Change in lifestyles is necessary to correct the pain. Correction of wrong postures and regular exercises needs to be adopted. Wearing of braces and neck supports during movement. Cold and hot compressions along with medications can be advised. Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAID), steroids, DMARDS (Diseases modifying anti rheumatic drugs) and pain relieving drugs, topical pain relieving gels and lubricants are advised In severe cases corticosteroid injection can be administered. In cases of stiffness traction of neck along with good physiotherapy plan is advised. Patients who are not responding to medications surgical decompression is required. Calcium and Vitamin D3 along with essential minerals as supplements may be advised.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints. Acupuncture which is the science of insertion of fine needles on the certain stimulating spots on the body has proved to be effective. Certain yoga exercises can also be helpful in relieving the pain and strengthening the muscles.
