Spondylosis--or cervical spondylosis--is a condition in which disks and joints in the vertebrae degenerate, causing spinal compression. It typically starts in the neck, but can also begin to affect the spinal cord as the condition worsens. Spondylosis commonly develops as people age, with more than 85 percent of cases reported in people 60 and older, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. However, younger people, including teens, can develop the condition, often because of a neck injury, spinal surgery or severe arthritis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cervical spondylosis typically develop slowly, but some people may experience a sudden onset of symptoms. Common symptoms include headaches, weakness in the arms, neck stiffness, pain in the neck that can radiate to the shoulders and arms and loss of feeling or strange sensations in the arms, shoulders and sometimes legs, Medline Plus reports. More rarely, spondylosis can cause balance to become impaired. Some people may also lose control over their bladder, particular if the condition is causing the spinal cord to compress.
Diagnosis
In many cases, your doctor may suspect spondylosis because of symptoms you describe. However, because most cases of the condition are not diagnosed in teens, your doctor may first rule out several other conditions before arriving at a diagnosis of cervical spondylosis. Medical imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI can confirm the diagnosis, Merck reports. These tests can reveal deformities and places where the spinal cord has narrowed.
Treatment
To start, doctors often treat cervical spondylosis by offering methods of relieving the pain and discomfort the condition causes. Your doctor may suggest pain-relief medications to alleviate pain. A soft cervical collar can also limit neck movement and help with symptoms. Physical therapy is also common to help stretch and strengthen the affected muscles, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. If pain becomes severe or chronic or if the condition begins to affect your ability to move your neck, surgery may be considered. However, surgery is generally reserved for those who have not responded well to other treatments. Additionally, some people suffering from chronic pain may not benefit from surgery because of other conditions.
Prognosis
A teen diagnosed with cervical spondylosis may experience symptoms of the condtion throughout his life. However, many people respond well to nonsurgical treatment options and do not require surgery, Medline Plus reports. However, because of the early onset, teens may experience complications caused by spondylosis, including loss of function in the neck and spine muscles. In some cases, spondylosis can cause permanent disability.
