brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Cervical Spondylosis
Treatment of Cervical Spondylosis
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs A soft neck collar Sometimes surgery For spasms, a muscle relaxant Without treatment, symptoms of spinal cord dysfunction due to cervical spondylosis sometimes lessen or remain the same, but they may worsen. Initially, especially if only nerve roots are compressed, a soft neck collar to support the neck and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such asibuprofenmay provide relief. If they do not, surgery may be needed. If the spinal cord is compressed, surgery is usually needed. An incision may be made through the front or back of the neck. Then, part of the affected vertebrae is removed to make more room for the spinal cord—a procedure called laminectomy. Bone spurs, if present, are removed, and the spine may be stabilized by fusing the vertebrae together. Surgery prevents additional nerve damage, but it usually does not reverse the existing nerve damage. The earlier the surgery, the better the outcome. Because the spine may be unstable after surgery, people may need to wear a rigid brace to hold the head still while healing occurs. If muscle spasms occur, muscle relaxants (such asbaclofen) may help relieve them. 