A disorder characterized by compressed spinal discs is called cervical spondylosis. As a person ages, the bones and cartilage in the spine begin to degenerate and form bone spurs. The degeneration of the cervical disks and joints can cause the spinal discs to compress, which puts excess pressure on the nerve roots.
Causes
The most common cause of compressed spinal disc disorder is the normal degeneration of the bones because of aging. As a person ages, the spinal discs begin to dry out and lose elasticity and the ligaments that connect the neck bones and muscles begin to stiffen. MayoClinic.com notes that most men and women exhibit some signs of cervical spondylosis by the age of 30, but symptoms do not usually appear until later years. Other causes of cervical spondylosis include prior neck injuries, severe arthritis and previous neck surgeries.
Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of developing the disorder. Genetics play a significant role in the development of cervical spondylosis. Smoking also increases the risk of cervical spondylosis. Those whose jobs require significant neck motion also have an increased risk of developing the disorder. Mental health problems and depression are also thought to contribute to the compressed spinal disc disorder, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Symptoms
The most frequent symptoms of cervical spondylosis are pain and stiffness in the neck. Pain can range from mild to severe and is often exacerbated by looking up or down for extended periods of time and is relieved by lying down. The pain might also radiate down through the shoulders and into the arms or chest. Tingling sensations and numbness often accompany pain and are most apparent in the arms, legs, hands and feet, according to MayoClinic.com. Other symptoms include difficulty walking, loss of balance, abnormal reflexes and loss of bladder control. Headaches and muscle spasms might also occur.
Treatment
Nonsurgical treatment options for the compressed spinal disc disorder include a combination of physical therapy, medications and soft collars that limit the range of motion of the neck. Alternating application of heat and ice can also help to reduce severity of symptoms. Injections of steroids or anesthetic medications directly into the spinal column can help reduce pain. Medline Plus notes that surgery is only considered for those whom experience severe pain or for which nonsurgical treatments were ineffective. Surgery consists of fixing the compression and relieving pressure on the nerves.
Prevention
Because cervical spondylosis develops in part to advancing age, there may not be a way to completely prevent the compression from occurring. MayoClinic.com recommends a number of techniques that can decrease the chances of developing the disorder. Regular physical exercises and neck exercises can increase strength and flexibility. Avoiding high-impact activities, such as running, and maintaining good posture can also decrease the risk of developing the compressed spinal disc disorder.
