Cervical Spondylosis (Neck Arthritis) – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Care

What is Cervical Spondylosis (Neck Arthritis)?

Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative condition that occurs when the intervertebral discs in the neck lose their moisture content and elasticity, leading to the breakdown of the spinal structures. The vertebrae may develop bone spurs, and the joints may become stiff, which can irritate the surrounding nerves, causing pain or discomfort. Over time, the wear and tear may lead to a reduction in the movement of the neck, resulting in chronic pain and stiffness.

Key Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis

Symptoms of cervical spondylosis vary depending on the severity of the condition and the extent of degeneration in the cervical spine. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Neck pain and stiffness: This is the most common symptom, often worsening after prolonged sitting or activity. The pain may be constant or intermittent and may radiate into the shoulders and upper back.

• Radiating pain: Pain may travel down the arms or into the upper back and may be accompanied by numbness or tingling sensations in the arms or hands.

• Headaches: Chronic neck pain and stiffness can lead to tension headaches, particularly at the base of the skull.

• Limited neck mobility: The neck may become stiff, making it difficult to rotate the head from side to side or tilt the head backward.

• Muscle weakness: In more severe cases, nerve compression can result in weakness in the arms, hands, or shoulders.

• Balance issues: In rare cases, cervical spondylosis may cause issues with balance and coordination due to nerve compression in the neck.

What Causes Cervical Spondylosis?

The most common cause of cervical spondylosis is aging. As we age, the intervertebral discs lose water content, making them less flexible and more prone to damage. This breakdown can cause changes in the structure of the bones, ligaments, and joints in the neck. Other contributing factors to cervical spondylosis include:

• Repetitive motion: Activities that require repetitive neck movements, such as working at a desk for long hours, heavy lifting, or sports that strain the neck, can increase the risk of developing cervical spondylosis.

• Injury: A previous neck injury, such as whiplash or a fall, can accelerate the degeneration of the cervical spine.

• Genetics: Some individuals may be more predisposed to developing cervical spondylosis due to their genetic makeup.

• Poor posture: Maintaining poor posture, such as slouching or craning the neck forward, can place excess strain on the cervical spine, increasing the likelihood of degeneration over time.

How Is Cervical Spondylosis Diagnosed?

A physiotherapist, doctor, or other healthcare professional will typically start by taking a full medical history and performing a physical examination. This includes assessing your posture, neck mobility, and strength. If necessary, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be ordered to provide a clear view of the spine's condition and any possible nerve compression.

How We Treat Cervical Spondylosis at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we take a holistic, evidence-based approach to treat cervical spondylosis. Our team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, exercise physiologists, and other specialists work together to provide individualized care tailored to your needs.

Physiotherapy for Cervical Spondylosis

Physiotherapy plays a key role in treating cervical spondylosis. Our physiotherapists use a combination of manual therapy, joint mobilizations, postural correction, and strengthening exercises to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve neck mobility. Physiotherapy aims to:

• Relieve pain and reduce muscle tightness

• Improve neck flexibility and strength

• Correct postural issues that may be contributing to symptoms

• Help with daily function and quality of life

Occupational Therapy for Neck Arthritis

Occupational therapy can assist in adapting your environment and daily activities to reduce neck strain. Our occupational therapists can:

• Provide ergonomic advice for workstations to improve posture and reduce strain during long periods of sitting

• Recommend adaptive equipment and modifications in your home to make tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or driving easier on your neck

• Offer techniques to minimize neck stress during daily activities

Exercise Physiology for Cervical Spondylosis

Exercise physiology is essential for strengthening the muscles around the neck and upper back. Our exercise physiologists will develop a personalized exercise program that includes stretching, strengthening, and postural exercises. This helps in:

• Restoring mobility and flexibility

• Strengthening supporting muscles to take the load off the cervical spine

• Preventing further degeneration and managing chronic symptoms

Shockwave Therapy and eMTT Therapy

We also use advanced technologies like shockwave therapy and eMTT therapy (electromagnetic transduction therapy) to provide relief from neck arthritis symptoms. These treatments:

• Stimulate the healing process by improving circulation and promoting cell regeneration

• Help reduce inflammation and pain in the affected areas

• Speed up the recovery process and enhance the effects of other treatments

How to Prevent Cervical Spondylosis

While aging is unavoidable, there are steps you can take to slow the progression of cervical spondylosis and reduce the risk of further degeneration. These include:

• Maintaining good posture: Focus on sitting and standing with proper alignment to avoid straining the neck.

• Strengthening neck muscles: Regularly practicing neck exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the cervical spine, offering better support.

• Ergonomic adjustments: Make adjustments to your workstation or daily activities to minimize neck strain, especially during long periods of sitting or working on a computer.

• Taking breaks: Ensure you take regular breaks to stretch and move, especially if your job involves prolonged sitting or repetitive motion.

Get the Right Care for Cervical Spondylosis Today

If you are experiencing the symptoms of cervical spondylosis, it's important to seek professional help to manage the condition and improve your quality of life. At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we are committed to providing the most effective treatments and rehabilitation options to help you feel better and regain mobility.