Physical examination of cervical spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is a common degenerative bone and joint disease, usually related to aging, long-term poor posture or overuse of the cervical spine. Physical examination is an important means of diagnosing cervical spondylosis, which can reveal symptoms such as limited cervical motion and local tenderness.

1. Cervical spine mobility test

The doctor will ask the patient to perform flexion, extension, lateral flexion and rotation of the cervical spine to observe whether the range of motion is limited. Patients with cervical spondylosis often show a reduced range of motion, especially obvious limitations in extension and rotation.

2. Local tenderness examination

The doctor will press the spinous process, transverse process and surrounding muscles of the cervical spine to check for tenderness. Bone hyperplasia is often accompanied by local tenderness, especially in the spinous process and transverse process area on the back of the cervical spine.

3. Neurological function examination

Osteoarthritis of the cervical spine may compress the nerve roots, causing numbness, pain, or decreased muscle strength in the upper limbs. Doctors will check the muscle strength, sensation, and reflexes of the upper limbs to determine whether there is nerve compression.

The treatment of cervical spondylosis needs to be combined with the severity of symptoms and the specific conditions of the patient.

1. Drug treatment

Commonly used medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and diclofenac, muscle relaxants such as chlorzoxazone, and neurotrophic drugs such as methylcobalamin. These drugs can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve nerve function.

2. Physical therapy

Physical therapy may include cervical traction, heat, electrical therapy, and ultrasound therapy. Cervical traction can relieve pressure on the discs, and heat and electrical therapy can help relieve muscle tension and pain.

3. Lifestyle Adjustment

Avoid lowering your head or maintaining a fixed posture for a long time, use ergonomic pillows and chairs. Perform appropriate cervical spine exercises to strengthen the neck muscles and improve cervical spine stability.

Physical examination of cervical spondylosis is an important basis for diagnosis and treatment. Through a comprehensive examination, doctors can accurately assess the condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. Patients should actively cooperate with treatment and pay attention to posture adjustment and neck protection in daily life to delay disease progression and improve quality of life.