Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical Spondylosis is a condition that mainly affects middle age and maturing adults and is caused by wear and tear between the bones (vertebra) in the neck. Although pain is common, this condition can be present without pain and you may simply experience limited movement of the neck or a combination of the two.

Frequently the pain spreads down in to one or both arms and may be associated with other symptoms including tingling or numbness affecting the arms or hands.

What causes Cervical Spondylosis?

Cervical spondylosis is age-related degeneration (wear and tear) of the vertebrae (bones) and discs in the neck. To an extent, as we get older everybody develops some degeneration in the cervical vertebrae and dics. Often, over many years the edges of the vertebrae develop small, rough areas of bone called osteophytes and the discs become thinner. This degeneration is a normal ageing process. In many people, this process does not cause any symptoms.

However, in some people, these degenerative changes in the cervical spine may result in nerves, ligaments, muscles and other soft tissues being irritated or impinged which may lead to some of the symptoms listed below.

What are the symptoms/effects of Cervical Spondylosis?

If symptoms develop, they can range from mild to severe and may include:

Neck pain
Pain in to the base of the skull and or shoulders
Increased pain with particular movement or postures
Pain/pins and needles/numbness down the arm and in to the hands and fingers
Neck stiffness, particularly after a night’s rest.
Headaches

Physiotherapy treatment for Cervical Spondylosis

A carefully selected treatment program by our specialist Physiotherapists will aim to relieve pain and stiffness and help you to stay active and independent.

Physiotherapy treatment may include: