Cervical Spondylosis in Mona Vale
Cervical spondylosis describes age-related changes that occur in the joints and discs of the neck and may contribute to pain, stiffness and reduced movement.
At Helix Recovery in Mona Vale, we assess your symptoms and movement to determine what may be contributing to your neck pain and develop an individual treatment and rehabilitation plan.
What is Cervical Spondylosis?
Cervical spondylosis is a broad term used to describe age-related changes within the cervical spine, including changes to the discs, facet joints and surrounding bone.
These changes become increasingly common as we get older and are often described on X-rays or MRI scans as degeneration, arthritis, disc degeneration or osteophytes.
Importantly, degenerative changes are also commonly found in people without neck pain. Imaging findings therefore need to be considered alongside your symptoms and clinical examination rather than assumed to be the cause of pain.
Common Symptoms
Neck pain or aching
Neck stiffness
Reduced neck movement
Pain aggravated by certain movements or prolonged positions
Pain around the shoulder or upper back
Headaches in some people
Arm symptoms if a nerve becomes irritated
How We Assess Cervical Spondylosis
Neck pain can arise from several different structures, and degenerative findings on imaging don't always explain a person's symptoms.
Your assessment may include neck movement, joint and muscle testing, neurological screening and examination of the shoulder and upper back where relevant.
The aim is to determine the likely source of your symptoms and identify factors that can be addressed during treatment and rehabilitation.
How We Treat Cervical Spondylosis
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Progressive exercise rehabilitation
Neck mobility exercises
Neck and upper-back strengthening
Activity and load modification
Gradual return to work, gym or sport
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Cervical spondylosis is a broad term for age-related changes in the neck and can include osteoarthritis of the cervical facet joints as well as changes to the discs and surrounding bone.
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No. Degenerative changes are common as we age and can be present without causing symptoms. This is why imaging findings need to be interpreted alongside your symptoms and examination.
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Yes. Exercise can help improve movement, strength and your neck's tolerance to everyday activities even though it doesn't reverse the structural changes seen on imaging.
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Not necessarily. Imaging may be useful in certain circumstances, but it isn't routinely required for uncomplicated neck pain. Further investigation may be recommended depending on your symptoms and examination findings.
Common Questions
Persistent Neck Pain or Stiffness?
If neck pain or stiffness is affecting your work, training or everyday activities, a thorough assessment can help determine what may be contributing and develop an appropriate management plan.