Cervical Spondylosis (Neck Osteoarthritis)

What is it?

Cervical spondylosis is a condition of the neck which results in pain and stiffness. It is an age related condition in which the discs and vertebrae degenerate or suffer from ‘wear and tear’. In a normal vertebral segment the bones are adequately separated by a full size disc, the ligaments are nicely aligned and the cartilage covering the bone ends is defect free. The effects of degeneration result in a narrowed joint space, thinned discs, worn cartilage and tightened ligaments. When the joints become closer together the pressure on the ends of the bones becomes greater leading to further wear. The body responds by increasing the surface area of the joint ends by laying down new bone along the edges of the joints. These projections of new bone are called osteophytes and they are often responsible for nerve root compression which can lead to cervical radiculopathy (trapped nerves).
 

Causes

Degeneration generally increases with age, is more common in men than women and changes can start by the age of 30. It is thought that approximately 95% of men and women over the age of 70 will show signs of cervical spondylosis. Certain posture types can increase the likelihood of developing wear and tear symptoms earlier. As with many conditions, education, postural awareness and preventative treatment can reduce the symptoms.
 

Treatment
 

Following a thorough examination and assessment of the presenting problem, advice and treatment may include the following:
 

• Advice regarding activity modification and reducing aggravating factors

• Electrotherapy i.e. Interferential / TENS to control pain

• Soft tissue mobilisation to restore normal tissue feel and function

• Joint mobilisations to the neck, upper back, shoulder and elbow if appropriate to improve neck range of movement

• Acupuncture to reduce pain, normalise tissue tone and improve blood flow

• Individually tailored exercise programme to stretch, strengthen and mobilise appropriate areas including postural re-education