Cervical spondylosis, commonly referred to as neck arthritis or cervical
osteoarthritis, is a degenerative condition affecting the bones, discs, and joints of the
neck. It is one of the most common age-related disorders of the cervical spine, with
most people experiencing some degree of it by the age of 60. While many individuals
remain symptom-free, others develop significant pain, stiffness, and even neurological
problems that impact their quality of life.
This blog explores cervical spondylosis in depth, including its causes, symptoms, risk
factors, complications, treatment options, and preventive measures.
What is Cervical Spondylosis?
The cervical spine comprises seven vertebrae (C1–C7), intervertebral discs, ligaments,
and facet joints that provide support and mobility to the neck. Over time, natural wear
and tear leads to degeneration of these structures, resulting in cervical spondylosis.
Key changes include:
● Disc degeneration: Loss of disc height and elasticity reduces shock absorption.
● Bone spurs (osteophytes): Abnormal bony growths form as the body attempts
to stabilize weakened joints.
● Ligament thickening: Spinal ligaments may stiffen, reducing flexibility.
● Facet joint arthritis: The small joints between vertebrae become arthritic and
inflamed.
These changes may narrow the spinal canal or compress nerve roots, causing pain and
neurological symptoms.
Causes of Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis is primarily an age-related condition, but several factors accelerate
its development:
1. Aging – The most common cause. With age, discs dry out and shrink, leading to
degeneration.
2. Repetitive stress – Jobs or activities involving repetitive neck movements,
heavy lifting, or long hours of screen use strain the cervical spine.
3. Poor posture – Slouching, forward head posture, and prolonged screen time
contribute significantly.
4. Previous neck injuries – Trauma such as whiplash increases the risk of early
degeneration.
5. Genetics – Family history of spinal problems can predispose individuals.
6. Lifestyle factors – Lack of exercise, obesity, and smoking accelerate spinal
degeneration.
Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
Symptoms vary from mild stiffness to severe pain and neurological issues.
Common symptoms:
● Neck pain and stiffness (worse in the morning or after long sitting)
● Shoulder, arm, or hand pain (radiating due to nerve compression)
● Headaches (often originating from the neck, called cervicogenic headaches)
● Grinding sensation in the neck during movement (crepitus)
Neurological symptoms (if nerves/spinal cord are affected):
● Tingling, numbness, or weakness in arms, hands, or fingers
● Loss of coordination, difficulty with fine motor skills
● Balance issues or unsteady gait
● In severe cases: bladder or bowel dysfunction (suggestive of cervical
myelopathy, a serious complication)
Risk Factors
Certain groups are more prone to developing cervical spondylosis:
● Age: Over 40 years, especially 50–60 age group
● Gender: Men are more affected at younger ages, but women after menopause
also show higher incidence
● Occupation: People with desk jobs, drivers, or laborers handling heavy loads
● Lifestyle: Smokers, obese individuals, and those with sedentary routines
Complications of Cervical Spondylosis
If left untreated, cervical spondylosis can progress to serious conditions:
1. Cervical Radiculopathy – Compression of nerve roots causing pain, numbness,
or weakness radiating into arms.
2. Cervical Myelopathy – Compression of the spinal cord leading to difficulty
walking, loss of balance, clumsiness in hands, or even paralysis if severe.
3. Chronic Pain Syndrome – Long-term pain affecting sleep, work, and emotional
well-being.
Diagnosis of Cervical Spondylosis
Doctors use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic
tests.
Clinical Evaluation:
● Range of motion test of the neck
● Neurological exam for reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation
Imaging tests:
● X-rays: Show bone spurs and disc degeneration
● MRI scans: Reveal soft tissue damage, nerve compression, and spinal cord
involvement
● CT scans: Provide detailed images of bony structures
● Electromyography (EMG): Measures nerve function in arms and hands
Treatment of Cervical Spondylosis
Most cases improve with conservative treatment. Surgery is required only in severe
cases.
1. Lifestyle Modifications:
● Maintaining good posture
● Using ergonomic furniture
● Taking breaks during long hours of desk work or driving
2. Medications:
● Pain relievers: Paracetamol or NSAIDs (ibuprofen)
● Muscle relaxants: For neck muscle spasms
● Nerve pain medications: Such as gabapentin or pregabalin
● Corticosteroid injections: For severe pain due to inflammation
3. Physiotherapy:
● Strengthening and stretching exercises
● Heat or cold therapy
● Cervical traction for nerve decompression
● Posture training
4. Alternative Therapies:
● Yoga and Pilates for flexibility
● Acupuncture and massage therapy for pain relief
5. Surgical Treatment (only if severe):
● Discectomy: Removing herniated disc pressing on nerves
● Laminectomy or Laminoplasty: Widening spinal canal to relieve cord
compression
● Spinal Fusion: Stabilizing vertebrae using bone grafts/implants
Preventing Cervical Spondylosis
Although aging is inevitable, lifestyle changes can delay or prevent cervical spondylosis
progression:
● Maintain good posture – Keep neck aligned with spine while sitting/standing.
● Limit screen time – Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at
something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
● Regular exercise – Neck stretches, swimming, and walking maintain flexibility
and strength.
● Healthy diet – Calcium, vitamin D, and anti-inflammatory foods support bone
and joint health.
● Quit smoking & manage weight – Reduces risk of degeneration.
Living with Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis is usually manageable with consistent care. Patients should:
● Follow prescribed physiotherapy exercises daily
● Use a supportive pillow and avoid sleeping on the stomach
● Stay physically active but avoid heavy lifting or jerky movements
● Seek medical help promptly if neurological symptoms appear
Conclusion
Cervical spondylosis is a common but manageable condition. While aging is the
primary cause, lifestyle factors such as poor posture, sedentary habits, and stress
worsen the problem. Early recognition and timely treatment can prevent complications
like nerve compression or spinal cord damage. With proper posture correction, regular
exercise, physiotherapy, and healthy living, most patients lead pain-free and active lives
without requiring surgery.
If you experience persistent neck pain, tingling, or weakness in arms, consult a spine
specialist promptly for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
