Cervical spondylosis

Definition

Cervical spondylosis is a disorder caused by abnormal wear on the cartilage and bones of the neck (cervical vertebrae). The tissue wears away (degeneration) and mineral deposits form in the cushions between the vertebrae (cervical disks).

Alternative Names

Cervical osteoarthritis; Arthritis - neck; Neck arthritis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Cervical spondylosis is caused by chronic wearing away (degeneration) of the cervical spine, including the cushions between the neck vertebrae (cervical disks) and the joints between the bones of the cervical spine. There may be abnormal growths or "spurs" on the the bones of the spine (vertebrae).

These changes caused by degeneration can over time press down on (compress) one or more of the nerve roots. In advanced cases, the spinal cord becomes involved. This can affect not just the arms, but the legs as well.

A previous neck injury (which may have occurred several years before) can make a person more likely to develop spondylosis, but the major risk factor is aging. By age 60, 70% of women and 85% of men show signs of cervical spondylosis on x-ray.

Symptoms

• Headaches, particularly in the back of the head
• Loss of balance
• Loss of control over the bladder or bowels (if spinal cord is compressed)
• Loss of sensation or abnormal sensations of the shoulders, arms, or (rarely) legs
• Neck pain (may radiate to the arms or shoulder)
• Neck stiffness that gets worse over time
• Weakness of the arms or (rarely) legs

Signs and tests

Examination often shows limited ability to bend the head toward the shoulder and rotate the head.

Weakness or loss of sensation can be signs of damage to specific nerve roots or to the spinal cord. Reflexes are often reduced.

The following tests may be done:

• CT scan or spine MRI
• EMG
• Spine or neck x-ray
• X-ray of the lower (lumbar) spine
• X-ray or CT scan after dye is injected into the spinal column (myelogram)