Cervical Spondylosis Treated in Houston, Cypress & Tomball TX

Cervical spondylosis is a type of wear-and-tear arthritis that specifically affects the joints, cartilage and bones in the neck. As the tough but flexible cartilage in the spinal facet joints breaks down and wears away, the exposed bone surfaces may begin to grind painfully against each other during movement.

Also known as osteoarthritis of the neck, cervical spondylosis commonly develops along with the natural aging process, but it can be accelerated by an injury. Usually, the condition arises after age 30 and gradually worsens with time.

What Are the Signs of Cervical Spondylosis?

Cervical spondylosis may not cause any discomfort or require treatment, especially in its early stages. When it does, the main symptom is neck pain that worsens with movement, which may be accompanied by:

• A stiff neck
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Muscle spasms in the neck
• Clicking sounds or grinding sensations during neck movement

Additionally, cervical spondylosis can alter the structure of the spine. For instance, an inflamed facet joint may encroach on the spinal canal and press on the spinal cord or a nerve root. A pinched nerve in the neck can cause neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling sensations and muscle weakness in the arms, hands, legs or feet.

How Can Cervical Spondylosis Be Managed?

Mild to moderate cervical spondylosis symptoms can often be alleviated with ice applications and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, for severe neck pain or neurological symptoms, it’s important to see a physician who can provide an accurate diagnosis and suggest an appropriate treatment plan, which may include bracing, physical therapy, ultrasound therapy or surgery.

Even though spinal degeneration is considered to be a normal part of aging, cervical spinal osteoarthritis does not have to interfere with your active lifestyle. If you are limited by neck pain, you may want to explore your surgical options with R. Alexander Mohr, MD. Dr. Mohr is a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon who focuses his practice exclusively on the management of cervical spondylosis and other painful spine conditions.

If you’d like to meet with Dr. Mohr, contact Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine today to request an appointment at one of his office locations in Houston, Cypress or Tomball, TX.