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Skeletal spine Cervical spondylosis
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Cervical spondylosis
Alternative Names: Cervical osteoarthritis Treatment: The goal of treatment is relief of pain and prevention of permanent spinal cord and nerve root injury. Text Continues Below In mild cases, no treatment is required. Symptoms from cervical spondylosis usually stabilize or regress with simple, conservative therapy including a cervical collar (neck brace) to restrict motion and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). Cortisone injections to specific areas of irritation may also be helpful. Rarely, intermittent neck traction may be recommended instead of, or in addition to, a cervical collar. This usually consists of a halter-like device placed on the head and neck and attached to pulleys and weights. For severe cases, hospitalization with complete bedrest and traction for 1 or 2 weeks may be needed. Narcotic medicine or muscle relaxants may help to reduce pain. Surgical decompression of the spinal cord in the neck may be recommended for severe pain or for significant loss of movement, sensation, or function. Surgical procedures may involve removal of bone and disc tissue impinging on the nerves of the spinal cord and stabilization of the neck by fusing the cervical vertebrae. Expectations (prognosis): Most patients with cervical spondylosis will have some chronic symptoms, but they respond to non-operative interventions and do not require surgery. Complications: Chronic neck pain Progressive loss of muscle function or feeling Permanent disability (occasional) Inability to retain feces (fecal incontinence) or urine (urinary incontinence) Calling your health care provider: Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>