Understanding Cervical Spine Disorders

By Amin Amini, MD, MS, FAANS

Center for Brain & Spine

. https://www.centerbrainspine.com/

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Understanding Cervical Spine Disorders

Cervical spine disorders refer to medical conditions affecting the cervical vertebrae—the seven small bones that form the neck portion of the spine. These vertebrae support the head’s weight and allow for its movement. Unfortunately, these disorders can lead to a wide range of symptoms and significantly impact daily life. Understanding these conditions, their symptoms, and when to seek medical attention is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Common cervical spine disorders include:

• Cervical spondylosis: cartilage and vertebrae wear out abnormally
• Cervical herniated disc: discs between the vertebrae rupture, protrude, or bulge out
• Degenerative disc disease: discs between the vertebrae break down
• Cervical spinal stenosis: spinal canal narrows around the spinal cord
• Cervical myelopathy: spinal cord damage caused by stenosis or degeneration
• Cervical radiculopathy: pinched nerve or compression

Symptoms of cervical spine disorders may vary depending on the specific disorder but commonly include neck pain, stiffness, radiating pain, numbness or tingling, weakness, and headaches.

Neck pain can be persistent or intermittent, while stiffness can reduce flexibility and make it difficult to move the neck. Radiating pain may spread to the shoulders, arms, or hands. Numbness or tingling sensations are often felt in the arms and hands, and weakness can result in a loss of strength in these areas. Headaches usually originate from the neck base and spread forward.

It’s important to seek medical advice if you experience severe or persistent neck pain, pain that radiates into the shoulders or arms, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands, difficulty with balance or coordination, or symptoms that do not improve with rest and over-the-counter pain medications.

Both nonsurgical treatment options and surgery are available to treat many of the conditions that affect the cervical spine. The choice depends on the cause and severity of the issue. If surgery is required, minimally invasive spine surgery can often be an option. Unlike traditional open surgery, which involves one large incision, minimally invasive surgery is performed through one or more smaller incisions. Working through smaller incisions causes much less damage to muscles and soft tissues than a single long incision.

Understanding cervical spine disorders and recognizing their symptoms are essential steps towards seeking appropriate treatment. Early consultation with an experienced neurosurgeon can lead to more effective management and better outcomes, allowing you to maintain a healthier, more active lifestyle.