The human spine, which forms the structure of our bodies, is a complex and important structure. The cervical spine, which includes the neck, is more likely to have aging-related change and degeneration among its many areas. Cervical spondylosis is a problem that affects the cervical vertebrae, intervertebral discs and surrounding tissues.
It develops as a result of increased wear and strain on the cervical spine as we age. This degenerative disorder can affect our everyday activities and also the quality of life by causing pain and limited mobility in the spine. Although it often happens to the elderly, certain risk factors make it possible for the disease to impact younger people as well.
In this blog, we aim to provide useful knowledge on the cervical spondylosis treatment so you can make decisions about your health, whether you have neck pain or are just interested in learning more about spinal health.
The cervical spine, which is made up of seven tiny vertebrae which are numbered from C1 to C7, is the top part of the vertebral column. It is an essential part for full motion and nerve function because it protects the sensitive spinal cord, supports the weight of the head, and allows for movement.
Let’s have a look at the C1 to C7 structure,
1. C1 (Atlas): The atlas or first cervical vertebra, is special in both structure and function. It carries the weight of the skull and enables the head to nod “yes” by going up and down.
2. C2 (Axis): The second cervical vertebra, also known as the axis, connects to the atlas at a key point, allowing the head to be rotated in a “no” motion from side to side.
3. C3 to C7: These vertebrae, which range in size from C3 to C7 are smaller than those in the lower parts of the spine. They are in charge of supporting the weight of the head and supplying flexibility for neck movements.
4. Intervertebral Discs: There are intervertebral discs or “discs”, between each pair of cervical vertebrae. These discs have a soft, gel-like centre called the nucleus pulposus, which is covered by a fibrous ring called the annulus fibrosus. These discs serve as shock absorbers, protecting the vertebrae during motion and preserving the flexibility of the spine.
5. Facet Joints: Facet joints, which are tiny joint cartilage that allow smooth motions between the vertebrae, bring adjacent vertebrae together. These joints are essential for preserving the neck’s stability and flexibility.
6. Spinal Cord and Nerves: The spinal cord is a network of nerves that passes through the cervical spine’s middle and branches out to different regions of the body. These nerves allow the brain to communicate with the body and regulate movement and sensation. The main job of the vertebrae and the components around it is to protect the spinal cord.
7. Ligaments and muscles: Ligaments, which connect bones and give the cervical spine more stability, are powerful, fibrous structures. Together with the bones and joints, the muscles in the area of the neck and upper back promote posture and ease movement.
There are multiple factors that can cause the cervical spondylosis, such as
1. Old age: As we age, the spinal discs naturally lose water content and become less flexible. This process is known as disc degeneration.
2. Lifestyle: Long-term bad posture and poor body mechanics can place an excessive amount of strain on the cervical spine.
3. Genetics: The weakening of the spinal discs and other structures in the neck may be influenced by genetic factors, according to studies.
4. Injury or trauma: Accidents, falls, and other traumatic injuries to the neck can lead to damage.
Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
1. Neck pain and stiffness: It is often felt at the base of the neck and may radiate to the shoulders and upper back. The pain may increase and it can be tough to bear.
2. Arm pain: The compression of the spinal nerves can affect the nerve pathway that can cause the tingling and numbness in the arms and hands.
3. Headaches: Due to muscle tension and nerve irritation there can be headaches too that can impact person quality of life.
Diagnosis tests
A combination of medical history, physical examination and advanced imaging tests is used to make the diagnosis.
1. The doctor will enquire about the patient’s symptoms, including the kind and length of neck pain, any other symptoms such as arm pain or weakness including any previous neck trauma or injuries.
2. MRI scans: An MRI scan provides detailed images of soft tissues, including the intervertebral discs, spinal cord and nerve roots.
3. Electromyography: These tests check electrical activity in the muscles and nerves to identify any compression or injury to the nerves.
4. X-rays: X-rays are commonly the first imaging modality used to visualize the cervical spine.
Common treatments
Depending upon the severity of the condition and individual patient factors, several common treatment options are available
1. Pain management: Ibuprofen and naproxen are frequently used to treat pain and inflammation. Analgesics or muscle relaxants are sometimes used to treat pain.
2. Physical therapy: Specially designed exercises and stretches can help improve the flexibility and strength of the neck and surrounding muscles. Physiotherapists can also apply methods like pressure and manual therapy to ease pain and relieve pressure on the cervical spine.
3. Cervical spine collars: When cervical spondylosis is in its acute stage, soft cervical collars or neck braces may be given to offer support and limit movement. Long-term use is not advised because it may cause neck muscles weakness.
4. Assistive devices: To support the neck and maintain normal posture while sleeping or engaging in other activities, patients in some situations may benefit from using adaptive tools like cervical pillows or orthotic devices.
Surgery
Surgery is required when other treatments are unable to control symptoms or when the problem has advanced to a serious level. The patient stays asleep and pain-free during the treatment by using a general anaesthetic. Depending on the surgical method, the surgeon will make an incision in either the neck or the back. In order to relieve pressure on the nerves or spinal cord, the surgeon will carefully remove herniated discs, bone spurs or other sources of compression. To stabilize the spine, the surgeon may undertake joint surgery or artificial disc replacement. The surgical site will be treated and the incision will be stitched up.
Is surgery good option for you?
While surgery might be an option in severe cases or when conservative treatments fail to provide relief, it is generally considered the last resort due to the following reasons:
1. Infection, haemorrhage and negative anaesthetic reactions are just a few of the dangers that are a part of every surgery.
2. Following surgery, recovery can be long and may call for a lot of time away from work or limited activities.
3. Surgery may not always be guaranteed and there may be issues.
4. Damage to nerves or blood vessels during surgery on the cervical spine may result in further issues.
The choice to have surgery should be taken following a careful assessment and conversation with a qualified spine doctor, who can evaluate the individual’s particular condition.
Prolotherapy treatment for Cervical Spondylosis
Prolotherapy involves injecting a solution, often a mixture of a local anaesthetic and dextrose (sugar water), directly into the affected areas. This injection triggers a localized inflammatory response, which stimulates the body’s natural healing processes and increases blood flow to the area. This can reduces the pain and discomfort.
The affected ligaments and discs can become weakened and damaged. Prolotherapy can encourage the growth of stronger, healthier tissues, stabilizing the spine and reducing the pressure on the nerves.
It provides a non-surgical option for people who might not be good surgical candidates or who would rather start by considering less invasive therapy choices. The process usually needs a little downtime. After therapy, patients can get back to their regular activities.
EPAT therapy
With the help of EPAT therapy patient can also get help in cervical spondylosis. The acoustic waves stimulate blood flow and metabolic activity in the affected area, promoting the body’s natural healing process and providing pain relief. These waves increase blood circulation in the treated region, which helps deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the damaged tissues.
Improved blood flow can accelerate the healing process and reduce inflammation in the cervical spine. EPAT treatment triggers the production of growth factors and stimulates the formation of new blood vessels, which aid in tissue regeneration. This can be beneficial for repairing damaged discs and joints in the cervical spine.
It is a non-surgical option, making it a safer and less risky alternative to surgical interventions. The sessions are short and require no downtime. Patients can resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure.
Conclusion
Look for the cervical spondylosis treatment in Pune offered by the Prolotherapy Clinic as the spinal cord or nerve roots may become compressed in severe cases of, leading to severe damage. Dr Vikram Rajguru’s effective treatment has helped many people overcome the spinal problems and managing the pain. With higher success rates he has helped many people in their orthopedic problems. You can also consult with him at the Prolotherapy clinic.
