Cervical spondylosis

Cervical osteoarthritis; Arthritis - neck; Neck arthritis 

• 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.