Cervical spondylosis is also known as cervical osteoarthritis and degenerative osteoarthritis refers to the deterioration of the vertebrae and discs in the neck as we get older- specifically, the cervical spine, which is the section of the spine in the neck. When people get older, they start to lose moisture and elasticity in the soft tissues of the back, tendons, ligaments and esp. the gel-filled cartilage pads ( discs) that act as cushions between vertebrae. As these discs dry out, they became more fragile and cracks and fissures can form.

Simply, it is a degenerative condition that affects the vertebrae and soft tissues in the cervical portion of the spine. The edges of the vertebrae often develop small rough areas of bone called osteophytes. It can lead to bouts of stiffness and neck pain.

Cervical spondylosis with radiculopathy

It is defined as a cervical nerve root (a nerve in the neck area of the spine) that has become compressed and is sending radiating symptoms and distress signals throughout the neck and upper extremities along the entire path of nerve branches.

The symptoms include pain, tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness, etc. Cervical nerve roots can become compressed for a variety of reasons, the majority of which involve degenerative changes to bone or tissue over time. Eg. herniated disc, bulging disc, bone spurs, and spinal stenosis.

Signs and symptoms – Cervical spondylosis

In most cases, patients just experience pain in the neck and a bit of stiffness, and perhaps the occasional headache.

Neck pain- the pain may spread, reaching the shoulders and the base of the skull. Pain gets worse when the head is moved. The pain can reach the head and arms. Neck stiffness-more common after a long period of Inactivity ( sleep).

Headaches generally start at the back of the head and gradually move to the upper half of the front.
Others- rarely, bladder function problems, coordination difficulty. Weak arms and legs. Lack of dexterity.

When the brain is affected. , the blood supply to the brain is affected which results in dizziness and even blackouts

Dysphagia- Rare swallowing difficulty when the bones press against the esophagus.

Kottakkal Ayurveda is a center for Ayurvedic massage, treatment, healing, herbal medicine, and lifestyle practices. Our team of dedicated Ayurveda practitioners, trained in the art of Ayurveda are here to support your transformation and wellbeing. Kottakkal Ayurvedic Treatment Centre is the premier provider of Ayurvedic services in Dubai (Deira, Satwa), Ajman and we’re excited to share these restorative techniques with you.

Causes of cervical spondylosis

Multiple reasons are there.

1. Aging- the most common cause of spondylosis. Natural wear and tear of the body begin to break down the spine, causing spinal discs to lose water and become more brittle.
2. Family history

3. Obesity- carrying extra weight on your frame increases the load that the spine has to bear, accelerating the wear and tear.

4. Previous neck injury or trauma

5. Long-term activities such as carrying axial loads, professional dancing, gymnastics may contribute to higher risk.

6. Genetic cause

7. Smoking may also increase the risk of developing cervical spondylosis.

Ayurvedic treatments of cervical spondylosis-

In Ayurveda. , the traditional Panchakarma treatments are the best to reduce neck pain and disc compression. The treatments are aimed at

1. Reducing the inflammation in tissues
2. Increasing blood circulation to the area
3. Correction of calcium metabolism.

Severe and chronic cases of spondylitis require panchakarma treatments.

The treatments given for cervical spondylosis include Abhyangam, patrapotalaswedam, lepanam, Sirodhara, shashtika pinda swedam, Kayasekam, greeva pichu, greeva vasti, etc.