CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS

CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS

Definition: Cervical spondylosis is a common age-related condition that affects the cervical spine due to wear and tear on the spinal discs, joints, and ligaments.

Types of Cervical Spondylosis:

• Degenerative Cervical Spondylosis: This is the most common type, which occurs due to wear and tear on the spinal discs, joints, and ligaments.
• Traumatic Cervical Spondylosis: This type occurs due to an injury or trauma to the cervical spine.
• Inflammatory Cervical Spondylosis: This type occurs due to inflammation in the cervical spine.

Pathology:

• The cervical spine consists of 7 vertebrae, with the first vertebra being the atlas and the last being the seventh cervical vertebra.
• The intervertebral discs are located between the vertebrae and act as shock absorbers.
• The facet joints are located on the back of the vertebrae and allow for limited movement.
• The ligaments connect the vertebrae and provide stability.
• In cervical spondylosis, the intervertebral discs degenerate, and the facet joints become enlarged, leading to wear and tear on the spinal joints and ligaments.

Clinical Features:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Limited movement of the neck
• Headache
• Tingling or numbness in the arms or hands
• Weakness in the arms or hands
• Muscle spasms in the neck

Causes:

• Wear and tear on the spinal discs and joints
• Trauma or injury to the cervical spine
• Inflammation in the cervical spine
• Genetic predisposition

Clinical Anatomy:

• The cervical spine is divided into three regions: the cervical vertebrae, the atlanto-axial joint, and the cervical spine muscles.
• The cervical spine muscles include the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and scalene muscles.
• The cervical spine is supplied by the anterior and posterior branches of the cervical nerves.
• The blood supply to the cervical spine comes from the vertebral arteries.

Investigations:

• X-rays: To assess the alignment and degeneration of the cervical spine.
• CT scans: To assess the intervertebral discs and facet joints.
• MRI scans: To assess the soft tissues and nerve roots.
• Electromyography: To assess muscle function and nerve conduction.

Complications:

• Spinal stenosis
• Myelopathy
• Radiculopathy
• Cauda equina syndrome

Management:

• Conservative management: Pain relief, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
• Surgical management: Decompression, stabilization, and fusion.

Homoeopathic Therapeutics for Cervical Spondylosis:

• Arnica montana: For pain relief and inflammation.
• Rhus toxicodendron: For stiffness and limited movement.
• Calcarea carbonica: For degenerative conditions.
• Hypericum perforatum: For nerve pain and numbness.
• Pulsatilla nigricans: For weakness and fatigue.
• Bryonia alba: For pain and stiffness.
• Dulcamara: For neck pain and stiffness.