Cervical spondylosis, a degenerative condition affecting the neck, can lead to excruciating pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. This issue is often associated with ageing and wear and tear on the spine, making it more common among older individuals. Understanding the symptoms and causes of cervical spondylosis is crucial in finding effective solutions for managing this condition.
Also Read: Secrets To Manage Painful Neck Pain And Cervical Spondylosis Naturally
Symptoms and Causes of Cervical Spondylosis
Identifying symptoms and early signs of cervical spondylosis is crucial for taking timely corrective actions to mitigate potential damage. Often mistaken for neck strain or fatigue, many individuals forego treatment, inadvertently exacerbating their condition.
Keep an eye out for the following symptoms of cervical spondylosis:
- Neck pain that radiates to other areas like the shoulder and arm, accompanied by numbness or a tingling sensation. The pain may range from dull to sharp and worsen with movement or activity.
- Frequent headaches, particularly those originating from the back of the head, may be a sign of cervical spondylosis.
- Grinding sensation in spinal discs when moving the neck side-to-side.
- Progressive weakness in the arms and legs, leading to difficulty in maintaining balance. This weakness may occur due to compression or damage to nerves in the cervical spine.
Early signs of cervical spondylosis can also include tingling or numbness in the arms, hands, or fingers, indicating compression or irritation of nerves in the cervical spine.
Also Read: Causes of Neck Pain
Causes of Cervical Spondylosis
As we age, we are more prone to various health conditions, and cervical spondylosis is one of them. This degenerative condition affects the neck and can cause excruciating pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. While ageing is one of the primary causes of cervical spondylosis, there are other contributing factors that we need to be aware of.
Drying and Shrinking of Spinal Discs
The spinal discs act as cushions between spinal vertebrae, but with ageing, they dehydrate and shrink, losing their ability to provide cushioning. This results in bone-on-bone contact, leading to extreme pain and stiffness.
Neck Injuries
Previous neck injuries can cause damage to the cervical spine, contributing to the development of cervical spondylosis. Read more about How to Treat Muscle Spasms In your Neck With Ayurveda?
Faulty Posture
Repeated movements or postures that strain the neck, such as holding the head forward for prolonged periods, can contribute to the development of cervical spondylosis. Maintaining good posture can help reduce the risk of developing cervical spondylosis and reduce symptoms in individuals who already have the condition.
Genetics
There may be a genetic component to the development of cervical spondylosis, as some individuals may have a higher risk of developing the condition due to their genes.
Smoking
Smoking has been linked to the development of cervical spondylosis, damaging the discs in the spine and contributing to the degeneration of the cervical spine. It can also reduce blood flow to the spinal tissues, impairing the body’s ability to repair damage to the spine.
Obesity
Being overweight can strain the cervical spine and contribute to the development of cervical spondylosis.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or spinal stenosis, can increase the risk of developing cervical spondylosis.
Gender
Women may be at a higher risk of developing cervical spondylosis than men.
Age
As mentioned above, cervical spondylosis is a natural part of ageing. However, it can be prevented with a few lifestyle adjustments.
Occupational Factors
If your job involves repetitive neck movements or awkward sitting positions that strain your neck, the chances of developing cervical spondylosis increase significantly.
Understanding the Degeneration Process
The intervertebral disc, which acts as a cushion between the vertebrae of the spine, deteriorates with age, leading to the progressive nature of cervical spondylosis. As individuals age, the discs in the cervical spine lose moisture and elasticity, causing them to shrink and become less flexible. This process can result in the development of osteophytes or bone spurs, which compress the nerves and contribute to the degeneration of the cervical spine.
Complications of Cervical Spondylosis
If left untreated or allowed to progress, cervical spondylosis can result in various complications, including:
Herniated disc: Degeneration of discs in the cervical spine can make them more susceptible to tears or ruptures, leading to a herniated disc. This can exert pressure on nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. Other symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and challenges with balance and coordination.
Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress or irritate the spinal cord or nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, and weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.
Cervical myelopathy: Degenerative changes in the cervical spine can lead to compression or damage of the spinal cord, causing symptoms such as pain, weakness, and coordination difficulties.
Chronic pain: Cervical spondylosis can lead to persistent pain, significantly affecting an individual’s quality of life.
Disability: In severe cases, cervical spondylosis can result in disability, particularly if it hampers an individual’s mobility or daily activities.
If you are experiencing symptoms of cervical spondylosis, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. Early treatment can assist in managing symptoms and preventing the development of complications.
Ayurvedic Solutions for Cervical Spondylosis
In Ayurveda, the symptoms of cervical spondylosis are attributed to imbalanced Vata dosha. However, the Ayurvedic approach to cervical spondylosis has been successful in naturally addressing the condition.
Ayurveda utilizes medications and Panchakarma therapies such as medicated enema or Basti, which can help alleviate the symptoms of cervical spondylosis. The duration and nature of these therapies may vary based on the individual’s response to the therapy.
Also Read: 5 Effective Ayurvedic Herbs for Cervical Spondylosis Relief
Let’s explore the Ayurvedic approach to treating cervical spondylosis in more detail.
Ayurvedic therapies for cervical spondylosis are not standardized as they are tailored to an individual’s age and condition, and are based on their body’s response.
For those seeking alternative therapies for cervical spondylosis, certified Ayurvedic practitioners recommend and administer the following treatments:
Abhyanga Swedam
Abhyanga-Swedam is an Ayurvedic massage therapy followed by fomentation, typically lasting 60 to 90 minutes. Administered by a certified practitioner, this treatment involves gentle strokes and deep kneading using medicated massage oils. Gentle pressure applied around the neck area can be beneficial for cervical spondylosis. Fomentation aids in the penetration of the medicated oil into the tissues.
Sarvangadhara
Sarvangadhara is an oil-dripping therapy where warm, medicated oils are poured over the entire body (sarvanga). This therapy is said to benefit individuals with various musculoskeletal issues, promoting relaxation and addressing aches, fatigue, and stress.
Kati Vasti
Kati Vasti is an Ayurvedic therapy focused on back and neck pains. A trained practitioner administers this specialized oil therapy for the neck, back, and shoulders. Warm, medicated oil is pooled over the affected area, followed by a gentle massage to maximize the therapy’s benefits.
Pinda Swedna
Pinda Sweda is a traditional massage therapy that involves using a cloth bag filled with warm medicated oils and herbs. The bag is made from high-quality cloth and the contents are tailored to the specific health issue being addressed. During the massage, the bag is placed on the joints, muscles, and tendons to reduce pain, inflammation, and other ailments.
Book Your Appointment For Getting Effective Relief from Cervical Spondylosis. Click Here!
Ayushakti Ayurved Herbal Medicines for Cervical Spondylosis Pain Management:
Sandhiyog:
Sandhiyog is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation containing analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It includes Balsamodendron mukul (Guggul), Vitex negundo (Nirgundi), and Paederia foetida (Prasarani), known for their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects on cervical spondylosis.
Pain Mukti MJ:
Pain Mukti MJ is an herbal medicine that provides analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits for cervical spondylosis. It contains Boswellia serrata (Shallaki, Rasna) for pain relief and Punarnava and Shunthi for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Sandhical:
Sandhical is an herbal supplement designed to provide calcium support for cervical spondylosis. It contains Pinctadamargaritifera (MuktashuktiPishti) and Cissusquadrangularis (Asthishrunkhala) to help maintain bone health and support the skeletal system.
Rasnadi Guggul:
Rasnadi Guggul is an herbal medicine with block removal action for cervical spondylosis. It contains Zingiber officinale (Shunthi), Ricinus communis (Erandamool), Balsmodendron mukul (Guggul), Pluchea lanceolata (Rasna), and Cedrus deodara (Devdaru) to help alleviate blockages and provide analgesic effects.
Mahavat Nasak:
Mahavat Nasak is an herbal medicine known for its analgesic properties, containing Tribulus Terrestris (Gokshur), Trigonellafoenumgracium (Methi), and Oldenandiacorynbosa (Parijat) to address the pain associated with cervical spondylosis.
Suhruday (Meta Boost):
Suhruday, also known as Meta Boost, is an herbal medicine designed to regulate metabolism. It contains Balsmodendronmukul (Guggul), Trachispermumammi (Yavani), and Inularacemosa (Pushkarmool) to support metabolic functions in individuals with cervical spondylosis.
Preventing Cervical Spondylosis:
While ageing is inevitable, there are ways to prevent cervical spondylosis.
- Maintaining good posture, and exercising regularly.
- Avoiding smoking is one of the lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of developing cervical spondylosis.
- Individuals with a family history of cervical spondylosis should be mindful of their posture and lifestyle habits.
Also Read: 5 Simple Exercises for Quick Relief from Neck Pain
In conclusion, understanding the causes of cervical spondylosis is crucial in finding effective solutions for managing this condition. By making simple lifestyle adjustments, we can prevent the development of cervical spondylosis and live a pain-free life.
If you are struggling with the symptoms of cervical spondylosis, consider exploring Ayurvedic treatments to find relief and improve your quality of life. Ayushakti Ayurved, with our team of certified practitioners, offers personalised Ayurvedic consultations and treatments to address cervical spondylosis and other health concerns.
Take the first step towards managing your cervical pain by scheduling a consultation with Ayushakti Ayurved. Don’t let cervical spondylosis hold you back from living your best life.
For powerful health transformation stories, subscribe to the Ayushakti YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/AyushaktiTV
For regular health tips & updates visit Ayushakti’s Social Media Pages:
- Facebook – Ayushakti Ayurved | Facebook
- Instagram – Ayushakti Ayurved (@ayushakti)
- Pinterest – ayushaktiayurveda
Get all the updates about Ayushakti Ayurved on WhatsApp directly. Click here to Join our WhatsApp Channel
Ayushakti’s mission is to help people in every way possible. Our Ayurvedic experts are available to give you a consultation either over the phone or through a video consultation. We recommend customised diets, home remedies, and detox therapies to help you find long-term relief from health problems. Book your consultation here: https://bit.ly/3ZroV31
If you would like to know the location or visit one of our centres, please click here: https://www.ayushakti.com/home/p/contact
For more information, write to us at info@ayushakti.com. You can contact us on our toll-free numbers – 18002663001 (India) & +18002800906 (Global).
Blog Author: Dr Ashwini Borate
Expert Review: Dr Smita Pankaj Naram
Co-Founder, Ayushakti Ayurved Pvt Ltd
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before trying or consuming any medicines, home remedies or treatments mentioned in this blog. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.