Summary:
The rate of radiologically diagnosed cervical spondylosis is estimated at 25%
-50% for people up to the age of 50 and 75% -85% for ages 65 and up.
Pathophysiology cervical spondylosis is described by the gradual degeneration
of the intervertebral disc, the annulus tearing, the subsequent loss of fluid
and collapse over the years. The induced subperiosteal bone formation that
extends across the spinal canal in cases entraps neural structures. Clinically
it can be divided into neck pain syndrome, radiculopathy, myelopathy, vertebral
artery insufficiency and combinations of all the above. There is no evidence of
direct association of cervical spondylosis and osteoporosis. Most studies
suggest an inverse relationship between the two clinical entities, although
recent studies illuminate a fairly common genetic background. Physical therapy
is one of the most important parts of a conservative treatment program. Studies
have shown the superiority of exercise programs containing education of
proprioception, strengthening and improving muscle strength and timing in
relation to analgesic medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories and muscle
relaxants. Finally, many treatment protocols are yet to be explored for their
effectiveness against the symptoms of cervical spondylosis, especially when the
range of therapeutic techniques is limited or amended due to the coexistence
ofosteoporosis.
Keywords:
cervical spondylosis, osteoporosis, physical therapy, exercise, rehabilitation
