Cervical spondylosis is also known as neck arthritis or cervical osteoarthritis. It affects the disc and the joints in your neck region. It occurs due to wear and tear of bones and cartilages that are found in the cervical spine. In this article, we will learn about the causes, symptoms and home treatment for cervical spondylosis.
Cervical Spondylosis
Mostly it is an age -related condition and occurs in elderly and middle-aged people but there are other factors responsible for it such as obesity, lack of exercise, neck and spinal injury, arthritis, lifting heavy weight, any previous spinal or neck injury, wrong posture and slipped disc which is a condition of the prolapsed or herniated disc. It is most common in young people.
What is Cervical Spondylosis
In many people, there may not be any noticeable symptoms but in others following symptoms may be observed:
Mostly the symptoms come and go away, but in some people, the pain may last for long. In some cases, the cervical spondylosis causes pressure on the spinal cord and this condition is known as cervical spondylosis with myelopathy. Symptoms of which are tingling, numbness, weakness in legs, arms, feet and hands, loss of bladder control, muscular spasm and abnormal reflexes.
Sometimes cervical spondylosis may result into a complication called as cervical radiculopathy. In this condition, the bone spurs press the nerves while exiting the bones of the spinal column. It is characterized by shooting pain down the arms.
In most of the cases, rest is enough to relieve the symptoms of cervical spondylosis. Your doctor may also suggest you some medications to relieve the pain such as anti-inflammatory drugs and other non-narcotic drugs.
In some cases, the cervical collar may be suggested. You may also consult a physiotherapist who will suggest you appropriate exercise for your condition. In severe cases, epidural steroid injections are suggested as a treatment of cervical spondylosis. Surgery is rarely required.
There are also some natural and effective home remedies that can provide you relief from the symptoms of cervical spondylosis. They are as follows:
Hot and cold compress- By the application of alternate hot and cold compress, you may provide some relief to your symptoms. Hot compress relaxes the muscles and improves the circulation of the blood. On the other hand, cold compress helps in reducing the inflammation and swelling of the affected part.
Just take a hot water bag and wrap it around a clean cloth and apply it to the affected area for about 5 minutes. This is followed by the cold compress for a minute. For this, you need to wrap some ice cubes in a clean cotton cloth and apply it to the affected part.
Repeat the whole process daily for about 10 minutes until you get relief from your symptoms.
Epsom salt bath- Epsom salt contains magnesium that reduces the stiffness and swelling. It also eases pain and other symptoms of inflammation.
Take 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt and put in the bathtub filled with water. Soak yourself in the bathtub for about 15 minutes. Alternately, you may also make a thin paste by adding little amount of water to 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt and apply it to the affected area. After 20 minutes, rinse off with warm water. Repeat this every alternate day until you get relief.
* Those who are suffering from high blood pressure, Heart or kidney disease should avoid doing this and try other alternative methods.
Epsom salt bath
Sesame oil- It is one of the popular remedies used since ages for the treatment of cervical spondylosis. This oil is rich in minerals and vitamin D and K. Thus, it strengthens the bone and reduces the pain.
Mix sesame oil with equal quantities of lavender oil. Apply and massage gently over the affected area. Repeat this 3 times a day until you get relief.
Ginger tea
Above mentioned home remedies are totally safe and effective treatment of cervical spondylosis. If you know any other home remedies for the same please share with us.