Do you often experience neck pain and discomfort? Does the pain extend to your shoulder blades and arms? You may be suffering from cervical spine disorder.
It is a condition that affects the cervical spine, which is the part of the spine that is present in the neck. It is a common condition and can occur in individuals of any age group. However, it is more prevalent in people above the age of 40.
If you are experiencing symptoms of cervical spine disorder, it is important to diagnose the condition early and take necessary measures to prevent the pain from worsening.
What is Cervical Spine Disorder?
The cervical spine disorder is a condition that affects the seven vertebrae of the cervical spine. It is a common condition and can occur due to several reasons such as age-related wear and tear, degeneration, injury, and trauma.
The cervical spine disorder is known to cause neck pain and stiffness, which may radiate to the shoulders and arms. The pain may also be accompanied by numbness and tingling sensations in the arms. In severe cases, it may lead to weakness in the arms and hands.
Symptoms of Cervical Spine Disorder
The symptoms of cervical spine disorder may vary based on the severity of the condition. Below are some of the common symptoms:.
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Pain that radiates to the shoulders and arms
- Numbness and tingling sensation in the arms
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Muscle weakness in the arms and hands
- Lack of coordination and difficulty in walking
- Difficulty in maintaining balance
- Difficulty in controlling bladder and bowel movements (in severe cases)
Diagnosing Cervical Spine Disorder
If you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you may be suffering from cervical spine disorder. The condition can be diagnosed through a series of tests.
Below are some of the common tests that are used to diagnose cervical spine disorder:.
- Physical Examination – A physical exam may be conducted by a healthcare professional to check for any abnormality or tenderness in the neck and arms.
- X-ray – An X-ray can reveal the presence of bone spurs or a narrowed spinal canal.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – An MRI creates detailed images of the spine and can help identify any herniated discs or nerve roots that are compressed.
- Computed Tomography (CT) scan – A CT scan can reveal a more detailed image of the spine and can help identify any abnormalities that may not be visible on an X-ray.
- Electromyography (EMG) – An EMG test measures muscle activity in the arms and can help identify any nerve damage.
Online Test for Cervical Spine Disorder
If you are experiencing symptoms of cervical spine disorder and want to get a quick diagnosis, you can take an online test.
An online test can help determine the severity of your condition and provide you with guidance on what measures you can take to alleviate the pain. An online test usually includes a series of questions related to your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.
Based on your responses, the test will provide you with a personalized report that contains information about your condition and what treatment options are available to you.
Prevention and Treatment of Cervical Spine Disorder
The best way to prevent the onset of cervical spine disorder is to maintain good posture and exercise regularly. Below are some of the common treatment options available for cervical spine disorder:.
- Physical Therapy – A physical therapist can help you perform exercises that can help reduce the pain and improve mobility.
- Medications – Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help alleviate the pain.
- Surgery – In severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
The Bottom Line
Cervical spine disorder is a common condition that can cause neck pain, stiffness, and discomfort. It can occur due to several reasons such as age-related wear and tear, degeneration, injury, and trauma.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of cervical spine disorder, it is important to diagnose the condition early and take necessary measures to prevent the pain from worsening. An online test can help provide you with a quick diagnosis and treatment options, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a more thorough examination and treatment.