Neck pain

Cervical spine disorders

The term “cervical spine syndrome” covers many symptoms.

The most common disorders of the cervical spine are caused by accidents, especially from sports or road accidents. Typical examples are a cervical sprain (so-called “whiplash”) and vertebral fractures. These have to be operated on quickly if there are signs or even a threat of damage to the spinal cord.

Herniated discs in the cervical spine are often found in the lower cervical vertebrae segments and can be felt in the form of pain in the neck or back of the head,  neck-shoulder-arm pain with discomfort or paralysis. If this cannot be alleviated by physical therapy and pain management, then surgery is necessary.

Narrowing of the spinal canal

Wear and tear on the spine stimulates the self-healing powers in our body. The body responds by growing bone tissue to support and stabilise the vertebrae.  Often this exuberant bone matter leads to osteoarthritis of the facet joints and a narrowing of the spinal canal and the nerve openings (foramina). The consequences are severe back pain, restricted movement and radiating pain, which can sometimes lead to paralysis.

Decompression (relieving pressure on the spinal cord)

If neurological deficits occur such as paralysis, pain, discomfort or limitations in walking distance, a surgical decompression of the spinal canal should be conducted. In this procedure it may be necessary to remove the exuberant bone matter, depending on its intensity. The removal of this exuberant bone matter may lead to an instability of the affected vertebral segments, which must then be stabilised.  The stabilisation of the cervical spine can be achieved dynamically by implanting a disc prosthesis. In some cases a stiffening of the vertebrae may also be necessary, depending of the extent of the stenosis.

Changes in the spine can also be congenital or acquired, such as idiopathic cervical scoliosis (a lateral distortion of the spine). This requires special treatment in specialised scoliosis centres.

Rheumatic diseases in particular can also lead to instability of the upper segments, with possible nerve irritation and pain. Surgical stabilisation is then often necessary.