Cervical spondylosis is one of the most common, age-related conditions that affect the joints and discs in your cervical spine, which is in your neck. It is also know as neck arthritis or cervical osteoarthritis. It develops due to the wear and tear of cartilage and bones. Even though it’s largely the result of age, it can be caused by other factors as well.
Understanding what bring about cervical spondylosis is something worth considering when looking to change your life for the bones. Well, the bones and protective cartilage in your neck are prone to wear and tear and can lead to cervical spondylosis. Of course, there are other possible causes of cervical spondylosis you should know about.
One such common cause of cervical spondylosis you should know about is bone spurs. These overgrowths of bone are the result of the body trying to grow extra bone to make the spine stronger. But the extra bone can press on delicate areas of the spine, such as the spinal cord, and nerves, leading to pain.
Another possible cause of cervical spondylosis is dehydrated spinal discs. Your spinal bones have discs between them, which are thick, padlike cushions that absorb the shock of lifting, twisting, and other activities. The gel-like material inside these discs can dry out over time. This caused your bones (spinal vertebrae) to rub together more, which can be painful. This process can start to happen in your 30s.
You can also develop cervical spondylosis due to herniated discs. Spinal discs can develop cracks, which allows leakage of the internal cushioning material. This material can press on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to symptoms such as arm numbness as well as pain that radiates down an arm.
However, the greatest risk factor for cervical spondylosis is aging. Cervical spondylosis often develops as a result of changes in your neck joints as you age. Disc herniation, dehydration, and bone spurs are all results of aging.
Factors other than aging can increase your risk of cervical spondylosis. These include; neck injuries, work-related activities that put extra strain on your neck from heavy lifting, smoking, genetic factors, and being overweight and inactive.
Most people with cervical spondylosis don’t have significant symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they can range from mild to sever and may develop gradually or occur suddenly. Be sure to research more on cervical spondylosis to find out more!
