Cervical spondylitis, also known as cervical spondylosis, refers to age-related wear and tear of the neck’s spinal discs and vertebrae. It commonly affects people over 40, leading to stiffness, pain, and nerve-related symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can relieve discomfort and prevent complications.
Cervical spondylitis is often the result of degenerative changes over time, including:
Bone Spurs: Overgrowth of bones to repair damage, which may compress nerves.
Dehydrated Discs: Discs lose moisture and shrink, reducing cushioning.
Herniated Discs: Cracks in the disc that put pressure on nearby nerves.
Stiff Ligaments: Ligaments can stiffen, limiting neck flexibility.
Injury or Trauma:Past injuries may speed up degenerative changes.
Patients with cervical spondylitis often experience:
Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, especially after rest.
Radiating Pain: Pain spreading to the shoulders, arms, or upper back.
Numbness or Tingling:Sensory changes in the arms or hands due to nerve compression.
Weakness:Muscle weakness, leading to grip issues or difficulty lifting objects.
Headaches:Occipital headaches starting from the base of the skull.
Restricted Movement:
Dr. Srinivas Thankari uses advanced diagnostic tools to assess cervical spine health:
MRI and CT Scans: Detailed imaging to detect disc degeneration and nerve compression.
X-rays: Assess alignment and detect bone spurs or structural changes.
Physical Examination: A thorough evaluation of symptoms, muscle strength, and reflexes.
Dr. Srinivas, a leading brain and spine surgeon in Uppal, Hyderabad, offers a variety of treatment approaches:
Non-Surgical Treatments:
Medications:Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants.
Physiotherapy:Exercises to strengthen neck muscles and improve flexibility.
Lifestyle Changes: Posture correction and ergonomic adjustments to reduce strain.
Cervical Collar:Temporary support to limit neck movement and reduce pain.
Surgical Treatment (If Required):
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): Removes damaged discs and stabilizes the spine.
Laminectomy:Relieves pressure on the spinal cord by removing bone or ligaments.
Artificial Disc Replacement: Replaces worn-out discs to restore movement.
Receiving early treatment for cervical spondylitis can:
Relieve pain and stiffness in the neck
Improve mobility and quality of life
Prevent complications like nerve damage or chronic pain
Reduce the need for invasive procedures
After treatment, Dr. Srinivas provides personalized care, including:
Pain Management: Medication plans to ease discomfort.
Physiotherapy: Customized exercises to maintain strength and mobility.
Follow-Up Appointments:Ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal recovery.
If you are struggling with neck pain or related symptoms, consult Dr. Srinivas Thankari, an expert in spine care. His experience and personalized approach can help you find effective relief and restore a pain-free, active lifestyle in Uppal, Hyderabad.