Cervical spine Flashcards
Why is the cervical spine prone to disease?
it is very mobile so is more likely to become injured
Who is most likely to suffer from cervical spondylosis?
> 40yrs, female
What are the symptoms of cervical spondylosis?
Dull neck ache that radiates to shoulders and upper arms
May also experience tingling in arms
Spondylitic process can be progressive and bony root entrapment may occur. What may you see in terms of the patient?
Localising neurological signs
What is the management of cervical spondylosis with no localising signs?
Analgesia
NSAIDs
Use of a soft collar
Physio to relieve muscle spasm
Why should a patient with cervical spondylosis go to counselling?
They need to understand this is lifelong and recurrent attacks are likely
What is the management of cervical spondylosis with nerve entrapment confirmed?
Surgica fusion of the vertebra and decompression of the nerve root
is cervical disc disease more or less frequent than in the lumbar spine?
Less frequent
Where is most likely to be affected by cervical disc disease?
Lower cervical discs
What are the symptoms and signs of cervical disc disease?
Pain
No Hx. of neck trouble
Restricted movement of neck as muscles may be in spasm following disc prolapse
What is the management of cervical disc disease?
Rest
Gentle traction
Supporting collar
When would you undertake surgery in the management of cervical disc disease?
Localising signs present
Symptoms do not improve or regress
What is the surgical management of cervical disc disease?
Fusion of affected vertebrae
