Neck ? Cervical Spondylosis and Radiculitis

Cervical Spondylosis ? Spur Formation

Cervical Radiculitis ? Pinched Nerve in the Neck

As discs lose their height and cushioning, vertebrae move closer together and spurs form, causing a condition known as spondylosis.  These spurs may grow and start impinging on nerves in the neck, creating a condition known as radiculitis.

Symptoms:

�  Limited neck motion.

�  Deep ache in the neck that worsens over a period of two to three days.  As pain worsens, it spreads over the top of the shoulder blades.

�  Sometimes the pain moves into the chest, mimicking the symptoms of a heart attack.

�  Stiffness in the neck may cause headaches, dizziness, and sleep difficulties.

�  In severe cases, there may be numbness and weakness in the arm and fingers.

Causes:

�  Repetitive impact and bending of the neck.

Concerns:

�  If condition goes untreated, neck mobility may be impaired, there may be chronic pain, and swallowing may become difficult.

What you can do:

�  Use a heating pad.

�  Sleep on an orthopaedic pillow.

�  Seek medical attention.

Medication:

�  For relief of minor to moderate pain, take acetaminophen as directed on the label, or, for the relief of pain and inflammation, ibuprofen or muscle relaxers may be prescribed.