CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS

Cervical Spondylosis is a chronic degeneration of the bones (vertebrae) of the neck (cervical spine) and the cushions between the vertebrae (disks). Also known as cervical osteoarthritis, the condition usually appears in men and women older than 40 and progresses with age. Although cervical spondylosis affects both sexes equally, men usually develop it at an earlier age than women do. The degeneration in cervical spondylosis most likely is a result of wear and tear on the neck bones as you age.

The changes that accompany the degeneration, such as developing abnormal growths (bone spurs) on the spine, can lead to pressure on the spinal nerves and, sometimes, the spinal cord itself. Mild cases of cervical spondylosis often require no treatment or may respond to conservative treatment, including wearing a neck brace and taking pain medication.

More severe cases of cervical spondylosis, however, particularly those involving pressure on the spinal nerves or cord, may require treatment ranging from neck traction to stronger medications.

Neck pain and stiffness that gets progressively worse may be an indication of cervical spondylosis. The pain may range from mild to severe and debilitating. The condition may last for several months before improving, or it may become chronic. Other signs and symptoms may include:

Neck pain that radiates to the shoulders and arms

Numbness or weakness in the arms, hands and fingers

Headaches that radiate to the back of the head

Loss of balance

Numbness or weakness in the legs, if the spinal cord is compressed

Loss of bladder or bowel control, if the spinal cord is compressed

As you age, the disks of your spine become drier and less elastic. Degeneration can cause some of the disks to bulge and, in some cases, cause the central cartilage of the disks to protrude through a crack in the ring that surrounds the disk (herniate). The surrounding ligaments become less flexible, and the vertebrae may develop bone spurs.These degenerative changes may be a result of wear and tear throughout your life. An earlier injury to your neck may predispose you to this degeneration. By age 60, most people will show signs of cervical spondylosis on X-ray, although they may not have signs or symptoms.

MEDICAL TREATMENT

Your doctor will take a history of your condition and conduct a physical exam. He or she may test the flexibility of your neck by having you bend your head to your shoulder and turn your head from side to side. Diagnostic tests may include the following:

Nerve functions test

Neck or spinal X-ray

(CT) scan or (MRI)

Myelogram

Without treatment, the signs and symptoms of cervical spondylosis may decrease or stabilize, or they may worsen. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and prevent permanent injury to the spinal cord and nerves.Treatment of mild cases

Mild cases of cervical spondylosis may respond to:

Wearing a neck brace.

Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Doing exercises.

Hospitalization with bed rest and

Taking muscle relaxants,

Injecting corticosteroid medications into the joint.

ACUPUNCTURE and CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS

1. With cervical spondylosis, the disc has prolapsed or has worn out. These can be treated without surgery with our Hi-Tech Energy machine.

2. Acupuncture can help orrect spinal problems. Including vertebra exostosis, displacement, mal position, dislocation and arthritis.