Cervical spondylosis is a disorder caused by abnormal wear on the cartilage and bones of the neck (cervical vertebrae) with degeneration and mineral deposits in the cushions between the vertebrae (cervical disks).

Cervical spondylosis results from chronic degeneration of the cervical spine including the cushions between the neck vertebrae (cervical disks) and joints between the bones of the cervical spine. There may be abnormal growths or "spurs" on the vertebrae (the bones of the spine).

These accumulated changes caused by degeneration can gradually compress one or more of the nerve roots. This can lead to increasing pain in the neck and arm, weakness, and changes in sensation. In advanced cases, the spinal cord becomes involved. This can affect not just the arms, but the legs as well.

A previous neck injury (which may have occurred several years prior) can predispose to spondylosis, but the major risk factor is aging. By age 60, 70% of women and 85% of men show changes consistent with cervical spondylosis on x-ray.

• Neck pain (may radiate to the arms or shoulder)
• Loss of sensation or abnormal sensations of the shoulders, arms, or (rarely) legs
• Weakness of the arms or (rarely) legs
• Neck stiffness that progressively worsens
• Loss of balance
• Headaches, particularly in the back of the head
• Loss of control of the bladder or bowels (if spinal cord is compressed)

A pain in the neck that continues to get worse is a sign of cervical spondylosis. It may be the only symptom in many cases. Examination often shows limited ability to flex the head to the side (bend the head toward the shoulder) and limited ability to rotate the head.

Weakness or sensation losses indicate damage to specific nerve roots or to the spinal cord. Reflexes are often reduced.

• A spine or neck x-ray shows abnormalities that indicate cervical spondylosis.
• A CT scan or spine MRI confirms the diagnosis.
• A myelogram (x-ray or CT scan after injection of dye into the spinal column) may be recommended to clearly identify the extent of injury.
• An EMG may also be recommended.
• An x-ray of the lower (lumbar) spine may reveal degenerative changes in this region.