Cervical spondylosis does not refer to the degenerative changes of the cervical vertebrae alone, but rather the resulting deformation or narrowing of the cervical canal or intervertebral foramen caused by these changes.

by ruoyun5221 on 2012-02-27 18:23:03

Cervical spondylosis refers to the deformity and narrowing of the cervical canal or intervertebral foramen caused by degenerative changes in the cervical vertebrae, which irritates and compresses the spinal cord and nerve roots in the neck, leading to corresponding clinical symptoms. There are many ways to treat cervical spondylosis, but the results after treatment can be poor. However, one major concern for patients with cervical spondylosis is its recurrence. After recovery, the continuous torment of cervical spondylosis recurs. So why does cervical spondylosis easily recur? The doctors from the Orthopedic Rehabilitation Department of the 309th Hospital summarize the main reasons for the recurrence of cervical spondylosis as follows: pathological changes: not the fundamental cause of single cervical vertebrae, many symptoms of cervical spondylosis are due to muscle spasm or muscle atrophy, weakness, changes in the physiological curve of the cervical vertebrae, and dislocation of the anterior joints. These factors cannot maintain the stability of the cervical vertebrae, and damage their stability and mobility, causing imbalance in the external equilibrium of the spine. Fatigue and neck injuries: In cases of cervical spondylosis, due to its relatively poor stability, even after recovery, it takes some time to restore and stabilize its stability. During this early period, many factors such as excessive fatigue, sudden turning of the head, and sudden braking while riding a vehicle causing neck sprains, can easily lead to the recurrence of cervical spondylosis. Internal infections, severe heat, colds, tonsillitis, allergic reactions, etc., are also important factors that lead to recurrence. The systemic reactions caused by these diseases affect the cervical vertebrae. For example, tonsillitis may cause inflammation of the periosteum or joints of the cervical vertebrae. This way, not only can inflammation stimulate, but also due to swelling of the periosteum compressing the nerve roots, making the disease recur or worsen. Related to the structures around the cervical vertebrae: The structures surrounding the cervical vertebrae are relatively complex, with important nerves and blood vessels (the vertebral arteries passing through the transverse foramen are unique to other vertebrae) distributed around them. Additionally, the transverse foramen of the cervical vertebrae is relatively large and often shows significant hyperplasia, which is one of the reasons why it is difficult to prevent recurrence. Difficulties in immobilization: Even during the illness, using collars or neck braces only partially restricts the movement of the cervical vertebrae, and the immobilization after sleeping during the day is even less guaranteed. For many patients with very poor stability of the cervical vertebrae, repeated cervical rotation techniques, and habitual cervical misalignment, this is another reason for recurrence. Related to the anatomy and physiological function of the cervical vertebrae: The cervical vertebrae are the segment of the spine with the smallest range of motion and the weakest structure. The cervical vertebrae can perform post-extension, pre-flexion, left-right rotation, lateral flexion, and combined movements in various directions, with significantly greater range of motion compared to thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. The structures of the cervical vertebrae, such as the vertebral bodies and posterior joints, are weaker than those of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, and unlike other segments of the spine, they lack assistance from structures like the thorax, back muscles, and hip bones, so their stability is relatively better. The above are the main reasons for the recurrence of cervical spondylosis. Understanding the root causes of the recurrence of cervical spondylosis can help fundamentally prevent its recurrence and free oneself from the interference of cervical spondylosis.