What are the causes and risk factors for Cerveical Spondylosis? Find out about the symptoms, nonsurgical treatment options, and X-rays. The most important part of the diagnosis process is a MRI or X-ray. Your healthcare provider will use these tests to diagnose your condition. A diagnosis for cervical spondylosis requires a thorough medical examination.
Symptoms of cervical spondyloesis can be debilitating and may even impair your ability to move around. This degenerative disease of the neck causes cartilage and disks to wear down and develop a painful condition called cervical spondylosis. As a result, spinal cord nerves can become compressed, causing less space between vertebrae and the pain may even radiate to your arms and legs. The condition generally occurs with age and can lead to severe pain, especially in the neck and back.Symptoms of cervical spondyloesis include neck pain, loss of bladder and bowel function, weakened muscles, and weakness. Some patients may develop a combination of these symptoms. Fortunately, treatments can help ease pain and decrease the chance of permanent damage, and most patients can lead normal lives after being diagnosed with cervical spondylosis. Physical therapy is often prescribed, and includes exercises to strengthen muscles in the neck and shoulders.
A number of nonsurgical treatment options exist for cervical spondylosis, including physical therapy and stretching exercises. Doctors may also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants to alleviate the pain. A soft neck brace may be recommended to help limit the range of motion and ease irritation. Corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications may help relieve the symptoms, but more aggressive surgery is sometimes necessary.Conservative treatment options for cervical spondylosus include home remedies. Ginger is an effective home remedy because it has anti-inflammatory and circulation-boosting properties. Apple cider vinegar, on the other hand, is an alkalizing, anti-inflammatory remedy. Neem has a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect. Taking neem regularly may help relieve some of the symptoms of cervical spondylosis.
The most common complication of cervical spondylosis is the compression of the spinal cord, a condition known as cervical spondylotic myelopathy. MRI plays an important role in the diagnosis of CSM and shows the relationship between the spinal cord and the posterior structures of the spine. Static MRI scans are only useful for demonstrating the static position of the spinal cord, but dynamic MRI is helpful for understanding the pathogenesis of CSM and inform surgical decision-making.The MRI scan can reveal the extent of the stenosis in the cervical region and its location, as well as any associated myelopathy. As the technology continues to become more accessible and affordable, MRI scans for Cervical Spondylosis can help physicians identify the exact source of a patient's pain. A T2-weighted gradient-echo technique is the most effective method for imaging the bone and osteophytic components of a spinal stenosis pattern.
The X-ray for cervical spondylosis should show widening of the space between the spinous processes, which may be indicative of ligamentous injury or fracture. The angulation of the cervical spine should be greater than 11 degrees on lateral views, if this is present. The spinal canal should be at least thirteen millimeters wide. Any less is a sign of a compromised spinal cord.A plain X-ray is necessary in every suspected patient of cervical spondylosis. It will evaluate the intervertebral disk spaces, uncovertebral joints, and facet joints. It will also reveal the presence of osteophytes. A flexion-extension view may also be required to detect any instability. During this procedure, a doctor will examine the spine to detect any abnormalities.