Neck pain is becoming increasingly common in today’s modern lifestyle. Hours spent in front of computers, looking down at phones, or maintaining poor posture have made cervical spine problems a daily struggle for many. One of the most frequent conditions causing chronic neck pain is cervical spondylosis.
Cervical spondylosis, also known as cervical osteoarthritis, is a degenerative condition of the neck spine that develops with age. However, it is no longer restricted to older people—young adults are also experiencing it due to prolonged screen time and sedentary habits.
In this blog, we will discuss cervical spondylosis in detail—its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention tips.
What is Cervical Spondylosis?
Cervical spondylosis is a condition caused by wear and tear of the bones, discs, and ligaments in the cervical spine (the neck region of the spine). These changes lead to stiffness, pain, and sometimes nerve compression.
It is a progressive condition, which means it worsens over time, but not everyone experiences severe symptoms. Some may live with mild discomfort, while others may face significant mobility issues.
Causes of Cervical Spondylosis
Several factors contribute to cervical spondylosis, including:
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Aging
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With age, spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity, leading to degeneration.
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Repetitive Stress
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Jobs requiring constant neck movement or poor posture accelerate wear and tear.
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Sedentary Lifestyle
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Prolonged sitting with poor ergonomics increases pressure on the cervical spine.
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Injuries
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Past neck injuries or whiplash can trigger early degeneration.
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Genetics
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Some people inherit a higher risk of developing spinal problems.
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Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
Not everyone with cervical spondylosis shows symptoms, but common complaints include:
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Persistent neck pain and stiffness.
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Pain radiating to the shoulders, arms, or hands.
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Headaches, especially at the back of the head.
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Tingling, numbness, or weakness in arms or hands (due to nerve compression).
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Grinding sensation in the neck during movement.
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Loss of balance in severe cases.
Diagnosis of Cervical Spondylosis
A spine specialist may use the following methods to diagnose the condition:
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Physical Examination – To check range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength.
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X-rays – Reveal bone changes, bone spurs, or disc narrowing.
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MRI Scan – Provides detailed images of soft tissues, discs, and nerves.
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CT Scan – Helps in identifying spinal canal narrowing.
Treatment Options
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
Most patients improve with conservative management, such as:
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Medications: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
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Physiotherapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve posture and mobility.
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Heat or Cold Therapy: Relieves muscle spasms and stiffness.
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Lifestyle Modifications: Ergonomic changes at work, posture correction, and exercise.
2. Interventional Treatments
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Epidural Steroid Injections: Reduce inflammation and nerve pain.
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Traction: Helps relieve pressure on spinal nerves.
3. Surgical Treatments
Surgery is recommended only if conservative methods fail or if there is severe nerve compression. Procedures include:
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Laminectomy (removal of part of vertebra).
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Discectomy (removal of damaged disc).
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Spinal fusion for stability.
Lifestyle Tips to Manage Cervical Spondylosis
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Posture Correction
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Keep your screen at eye level.
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Sit with your back supported and shoulders relaxed.
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Regular Exercise
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Neck stretches, yoga, and strengthening exercises help maintain flexibility.
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Avoid Long Screen Time
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Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
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Use the Right Pillow
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A supportive pillow that keeps the neck aligned with the spine.
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Quit Smoking and Maintain Healthy Weight
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Reduces pressure on spinal structures and promotes healing.
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Complications if Untreated
If ignored, cervical spondylosis can lead to:
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Chronic pain affecting daily life.
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Cervical radiculopathy (nerve root compression causing arm pain/numbness).
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Cervical myelopathy (spinal cord compression leading to coordination issues).
