WHAT IS CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS

Cervical Spondylosis, commonly referred to as neck arthritis, cervical spondylosis is a degenerative condition that affects the bones, discs, and joints of the cervical spine (the neck). While it is a natural part of the aging process, it can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain. Understanding cervical spondylosis, including its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options, can help you manage the condition and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Neck Pain and Stiffness

  • The pain can range from mild to severe and may worsen with movement, especially when turning the head or looking up. Stiffness in the neck can limit your range of motion, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

Headaches

  • Headaches, particularly at the base of the skull, can be caused by tension in the neck muscles and irritation of the nerves in the cervical spine.

Numbness or Tingling in the Upper Limbs

  • This can result in nerve compression in the neck, resulting in numbness or a tingling sensation in the shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers.

Muscle Weakness in the Arms

  • Muscle weakness can affect your ability to perform simple tasks like holding objects, writing, or even gripping items. This occurs due to pressure on the spinal nerves that control the muscles of the upper limbs.

Difficulty with Balance and Coordination

  • It can also lead to issues with balance and coordination. This occurs when the condition affects the spinal cord, leading to a condition known as myelopathy. It may cause dizziness, unsteady walking, and difficulty maintaining balance, which can increase the risk of falls and injuries.

Neck Crepitus

  • These sounds are caused by the movement of bones or cartilage in the neck joints, occurs mostly while turning or tilting head. It is usually harmless, it can be associated with the wear and tear of the cervical spine.

Fatigue in the Neck and Upper Back

  • Often occurs as a result of continuous muscle strain and tension as the body compensates for the changes in the cervical spine. It is felt as a constant heaviness or tightness in the neck and upper back, especially after long periods of sitting or standing.

CAUSES

Degeneration of Spinal Discs

  • Due to the aging process, the discs lose their ability to absorb shock and maintain flexibility. They become dehydrated and begin to flatten, reducing their cushioning effect. This loss of cushioning increases friction between the vertebrae, leading to wear and tear, pain, and stiffness in the neck. Over time, the degeneration of spinal discs can result in disc herniation or bulging, further contributing to these symptoms.

Bone Spurs (Osteophytes)

  • In response to disc degeneration, the body may form bone spurs, also known as osteophytes. These bony outgrowths form on the vertebrae as the body tries to stabilize the affected areas of the spine. While bone spurs are a natural part of the aging process, they can narrow the space around the spinal cord and nerve roots. This can cause compression, leading to pain, numbness, tingling sensation etc.

Loss of Spinal Elasticity

  • As we age, the ligaments and tendons in the neck lose elasticity. This reduction in flexibility can compromise the stability of the cervical spine, making it more susceptible to injury and further degeneration.

Wear and Tear from Repetitive Stress

  • Chronic wear and tear on the neck due to repetitive movements or prolonged stress. Poor posture, excessive sitting, or frequent heavy lifting can place continuous pressure on the cervical spine. Over time, these repetitive motions can lead to accelerated degeneration of the spinal discs and joints. Jobs or activities that involve bending the neck forward (e.g., desk work, driving, or using a smartphone) can contribute to this type of strain.

Genetic Factors

  • A family history of neck problems or other forms of spinal degeneration contributes to a higher risk of developing this condition. Genetic factors can influence how your body responds to aging and wear on the spine, making you more susceptible to the degenerative changes associated with cervical spondylosis.

Previous Neck Injuries

  • A history of neck injuries, such as fractures, sprains, or trauma from accidents, increases the likelihood of developing cervical spondylosis later in life. These injuries can damage the spinal discs, ligaments, or vertebrae, making them more susceptible to degeneration over time.

TREATMENT AT SANJEEVANAM

At Sanjeevanam, we offer a comprehensive approach including Ayurveda, physiotherapy, and yoga, which focus on reducing pain and stiffness, improving mobility, and enhancing overall well-being and quality of life. Through time-tested therapies and herbal remedies, Ayurveda addresses the root causes of cervical Spondylosis while promoting holistic recovery.

  • Restores Strength & Mobility: Helps regain physical strength.
  • Addresses Effects: Treats issues like pain, reduction in mobility, stiffness, etc.
  • Customized Therapy Plans: involve personalized physical therapy and occupational therapy sessions.
  • Individualized Care: Tailored to the specific needs of the person based on the severity of the pain and associated complaints.
  • Duration Varies: The length of treatment depends on the intensity and duration of pain, other complications, and the progress made.

Ayurveda

  • Ayurvedic treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage) Kayasekam, and Pinda Sweda (herbal bolus massage) help relieve muscle tension, reduce pain, stiffness and enhance flexibility. Localized treatments such as Greeva Vasthi (medicated oil treatment for the neck) and Shiro Vasthi (retaining medicated oil on the head) target specific discomforts and promote healing. Pachakarma treatments such as Nasyam (instillation of herbal oils through nostrils) and Virechana (purgation) help to detoxify the body as well as promote the tone of the muscles.

Physiotherapy

  • Personalized physiotherapy focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, strength, and motor functions, and helping patients regain physical independence.

Yoga

  • Yoga enhances flexibility, improves posture, balance, and mental well-being, aiding in both physical and emotional recovery.
  • At Sanjeevanam, this integrated approach of Ayurveda, Yoga and Physiotherapy speeds up to achieve the goal of pain reduction and other associated complaints, which holistically improve quality of life by using specialized treatments that help patients recover and regain independence in daily activities.

FIND OUT WHAT WE HAVE MORE

    BOOK APPOINTMENT







      SAY HELLO

      Get in touch with us today!

      Contact and feel free to ask about more details