Neck pain – cervical spine syndrome

cervical spine disorders
The term “cervical spine syndrome” covers many different clinical pictures.

The most common disorders of the cervical spine are caused by accidents, particularly sports or traffic accidents. Typical examples include cervical spine distortion (known as “whiplash”) and vertebral fractures. These require prompt surgery if there is a risk of nerve or spinal cord damage.

Herniated discs in the cervical spine are often found in the lower cervical spine segments and can manifest themselves in the form of neck and occipital pain, neck, shoulder and arm pain with numbness or paralysis. If these symptoms cannot be controlled with physiotherapy and pain therapy, surgery is necessary.

spinal canal stenosis

Signs of wear and tear on the spine stimulate the body's self-healing powers. The body responds by building up bone tissue to support and stabilise the vertebrae. These bone growths often lead to osteoarthritis of the facet joints and narrowing of the spinal canal and nerve openings (foramina). The consequences are severe pain, restricted movement and radiating pain, which in some cases can lead to paralysis.

Decompression (relief of pressure on the spinal canal)

If neurological deficits are present, such as paralysis, pain, abnormal sensations or limitations in walking distance, surgical relief of the spinal canal (decompression) should be performed. Depending on the intensity of the bone spurs, it may be necessary to remove them during this procedure. The removal of these bone spurs can lead to instability of the affected vertebral segments. These must then be stabilised. Stabilisation of the cervical spine can be achieved dynamically by implanting a disc prosthesis. However, in some cases, fusion of the vertebrae may also be necessary. This decision is made depending on the extent of the stenosis.

However, changes to the spine can also be congenital or acquired, such as idiopathic cervical scoliosis (lateral displacement of the spine). This requires special treatment in specialist scoliosis centres.

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