Cervical Spondylosis
If you suffer from neck stiffness, shoulder pain, or tingling sensations in your arms, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What Is Cervical Spondylosis?
Cervical spondylosis, sometimes called arthritis of the neck, refers to the natural wear and tear of the spinal discs and joints in the cervical spine. Over time, the discs lose their hydration and elasticity, resulting in reduced flexibility and cushioning between the vertebrae. As the body attempts to stabilize the spine, it may form bone spurs—bony projections that can narrow the spinal canal or pinch nearby nerves.
This degenerative process is pervasive, affecting more than 85% of people over the age of 60. However, symptoms can appear much earlier depending on lifestyle, posture, and occupational strain.
What Causes Cervical Spondylosis?
The causes of cervical spondylosis often involve a combination of age-related and lifestyle factors, including:
-
Dehydrated spinal discs – natural fluid loss reduces flexibility and height between vertebrae.
-
Herniated discs – inner disc material may protrude outward, pressing on nearby nerves.
-
Bone spurs – overgrowths of bone can narrow the spinal canal and irritate nerve roots.
-
Stiff ligaments – calcified ligaments restrict neck movement.
-
Smoking – accelerates disc degeneration.
-
Previous neck injuries – such as whiplash or sports-related trauma.
-
Genetics – inherited traits may predispose individuals to early spinal wear.
Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
Many individuals with cervical spondylosis experience no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they tend to appear gradually but can intensify suddenly.
Common symptoms include:
-
Persistent neck pain and stiffness
-
Headaches originating from the back of the head
-
Pain that radiates into the shoulders or arms
-
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities
-
Loss of coordination or balance
-
Difficulty turning the head or performing overhead movements
Severe cases can lead to cervical radiculopathy or spinal cord compression, resulting in muscle weakness, loss of fine motor skills, or even bowel and bladder dysfunction. These symptoms require prompt medical attention.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your provider will assess the range of motion in your neck, reflexes, and muscle strength, while also checking for areas of tenderness or nerve irritation.
If cervical spondylosis is suspected, your specialist may order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of degeneration:
-
Neck X-rays – reveal bone spurs, alignment issues, and signs of degeneration.
-
CT scans – offer detailed 3D views of the spine and bone structure.
-
MRI scans – assess soft tissue damage, including discs, ligaments, and nerve compression.
-
Electromyography (EMG) – measures electrical activity in muscles to detect nerve damage or irritation.
These diagnostic tools help pinpoint whether symptoms stem from disc wear, nerve compression, or other spinal disorders.
Treatment Options
Treatment for cervical spondylosis aims to reduce pain, restore motion, and prevent progression of the disease. The best approach depends on the severity of symptoms and the degree of spinal degeneration.
Medications
-
NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) help relieve pain and inflammation.
-
Corticosteroids may be prescribed orally or via injection to reduce swelling around irritated nerves.
-
Muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine) can ease spasms and improve the range of motion.
-
Anti-seizure or antidepressant medications may help relieve chronic nerve pain in some cases.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of managing cervical spondylosis. A therapist guides patients through exercises that strengthen neck and shoulder muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility. Techniques such as gentle neck traction can help relieve pressure on the cervical discs and joints.
Lifestyle and Home Care
Patients benefit from posture correction, ergonomic workstation adjustments, regular stretching, and avoiding prolonged use of phones or screens. Using a supportive pillow and staying active also helps reduce stiffness.
Surgical Intervention
Spine surgery is only recommended in severe cases when conservative care fails or when nerve compression causes significant weakness, pain, or loss of coordination. Common procedures include:
-
Cervical foraminotomy to relieve nerve pressure
These procedures aim to decompress nerves, stabilize the spine, and preserve long-term function.
Living with Cervical Spondylosis
While cervical spondylosis is not curable, most patients manage their symptoms effectively with non-surgical treatments and healthy lifestyle habits. Regular exercise, good posture, and early medical intervention are key to preventing complications and maintaining mobility.
If you experience persistent neck stiffness, radiating pain, or numbness in your arms or hands, contact Texas Orthopedic & Spine Associates. Our team provides advanced diagnostics, customized therapy, and minimally invasive treatments to help you move comfortably again.
If you have any questions for our DFW orthopedic specialists, give us a call at 817-697-4038 or contact us online. Telemedicine appointments are also available.
