Osteoarthritis of the cervical spine is a condition typical of middle-aged and older people who experience degeneration of the intervertebral discs and joints of the cervical spine.
Symptoms
When the spinal cord is compressed, the first manifestation is usually a change in progress.It becomes unstable, leg movements become jerky (spastic).When the nerve roots are damaged, pain is mainly observed in the neck.Weakness and atrophy of the muscles in one or both arms may develop both before and after signs of spinal cord compression appear.
All symptoms: increased pain during physical activity, pain worsens when bending forward, weakness in one or both arms, jerky gait, neck pain.
When to see a doctor
- For pain in the cervical spine.
- For tingling, loss of sensitivity, pain in the arm, shoulder joint.
- For frequent headaches.
- For dizziness.
Specialists: neurologist (neurologist), neurologist (neurologist), orthopedist.
Reasons
Osteoarthritis of the cervical spine can be accompanied by a narrowing of the spinal cord through which the spinal cord passes.As a result, compression of the nerve roots or spinal cord occurs, causing disruption of their functions.The symptoms that occur can be the result of either compression of the spinal cord or damage to the nerve roots.
Diagnostics
If osteoarthritis of the cervical spine is suspected, the doctor will prescribe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which can identify the area of narrowing of the spinal canal, the degree of compression and the area of the affected nerve roots.
List of diagnostic methods: magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radiography of the spine.
Treatment
Spinal cord dysfunction due to osteoarthritis of the cervical spine may resolve without treatment, but may also progress.Initially, to relieve the condition, the doctor will advise supporting the neck with a special collar, participating in physiotherapy, taking anti-inflammatory drugs, mild pain relievers and muscle relaxants.However, if the MRI scan reveals severe compression or if the disease progresses, surgery is needed to stop the process.However, it will not eliminate changes that have already occurred, as some nerve fibers in the spinal cord are irreversibly damaged.
Treatment methods: surgery, immobilization and orthotics.