Neck pain is common, but persistent neck pain should not always be ignored.
Cervical spondylosis refers to age-related wear and degenerative changes affecting the bones, discs and joints of the neck. It becomes more common with increasing age, although symptoms can also occur in younger adults.
What are the common symptoms?
Symptoms can vary from person to person. Common complaints include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Pain around the shoulder blades
- Pain travelling from the neck into the shoulder or arm
- Tingling or numbness in the arm or hand
- Headache arising from the neck
- Reduced neck movement
If the spinal cord or nerves are significantly compressed, some patients may also develop weakness, difficulty with hand coordination, imbalance or difficulty walking.
What causes cervical spondylosis?
With age, the discs between the cervical vertebrae may gradually lose hydration and height. The joints and bones can also undergo degenerative changes.
These changes may sometimes narrow the space available for the spinal nerves or spinal cord, producing neurological symptoms.
Does cervical spondylosis require surgery?
No. Most patients do not require surgery.
Treatment depends on the symptoms, examination findings and severity of the condition. Non-surgical treatment may include activity modification, medications, physiotherapy, posture correction and appropriate neck exercises.
Surgery may be considered when there is significant spinal cord or nerve compression, progressive neurological weakness or persistent symptoms despite appropriate conservative treatment.
When should you consult a spine specialist?
Consider specialist evaluation if neck pain is persistent, frequently recurring or associated with:
- Pain travelling into the arm
- Persistent numbness or tingling
- Weakness of the arm or hand
- Loss of hand coordination
- Difficulty with balance or walking
Urgent medical assessment is particularly important when neurological weakness or walking difficulty is rapidly worsening.
Specialist Neck & Spine Evaluation in Mandya
Dr. Yogananda ML
MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics)
FISS – CMC Vellore
Orthopaedic & Spine Surgeon
Shree Krishna Ortho and Spine Care, Mandya
Appointments: +91 88670 34565
