Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical Spondylosis refers to wear and tear changes to your spine in your neck. It is sometimes referred to as neck arthritis and is a very common and natural part of aging. By age 60, it has been estimated that 9 out of 10 people have cervical spondylosis. It is a chronic condition and may get worse over time. It is a natural and expected condition. Neck pain can be treated with conservative therapy. With cervical spondylosis the neck may ache, hurt or feel stiff. Treatments can improve symptoms and keep it from getting worse. Situations that may make it worse include obesity, smoking, neck strain, family history, neck injury and looking up or down for extended periods daily.
Causes
Aging is the main cause of spondylosis of the neck. The spinal discs (rubbery cushions between the spinal bones) may dry out with aging. This can lead to spondylosis.
Symptoms
Some people have cervical spondylosis without symptoms. If there are symptoms they may include
- Neck aching and pain
- Neck stiffness
- Headaches
- Knot in the neck
Diagnosis
Cervical Spondylosis can cause long term (chronic) neck pain and affect quality of life. It is important to see a physician when symptoms are first noticed. Cervical Spondylosis is diagnosed with:
- Physical Exam which includes examination for neck flexibility, walking gait, muscle strength and flexibility and knots in the neck
- Tests and spinal images with X-ray, CT or MRI
- Muscle and nerve function with nerve conduction study and EMG (Electromyography)
Treatment
Nonsurgical treatments can relieve symptoms and prevent severe spinal cord damage:
- Physical Therapy to strengthen neck and upper back muscles
- Medications to relieve pain
- Neck Collars
- Muscle Relaxant Medications
- Cervical Epidural Steroid injection (for significant pain)
- Radiofrequency Ablation (for significant pain)
Regenerative Medicine
These treatments work by strengthening the supporting structures of the spine and stimulating natural tissue repair without the harmful side effects of steroids and nerve burning procedures.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): uses your own concentrated platelets and growth factors to repair soft tissues, reduce inflammation, and improve muscle and ligament health. In patients with facet joint pain, PRP can enhance stability, promote joint regeneration, and support stronger spinal musculature.
- Stem Cell Therapy (Bone Marrow Concentrate): For more advanced cases, stem cell - based treatments can enhance regeneration of joint tissues, decrease inflammation, and support long-term structural improvement. These procedures use your body’s own healing cells to restore spinal integrity and mobility naturally
These Regenerative treatments are most effective when combined with a targeted physical therapy program that focuses on improving spinal strength, flexibility, and controlled mobility.
Surgery
Surgery may be recommended if there is spinal chord damage or long term pain and nerve damage.