How can spondylosis of the cervical spine be managed?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have numbness on the right side of my face, right arm, and right hand. My blood pressure is normal.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Is the onset sudden, or has it developed gradually over the past few days? If it is gradual and has been present for a long period, it is most likely spondylosis of both cervical spines. This is a spinal condition where numbness, pain, and other symptoms occur due to nerve compression between the vertebrae. Do you have any history of trauma to your spine? Does the pain increase with neck movement? Is it associated with tingling or a 'pins and needles' sensation? If so, this further supports the diagnosis. You will need a vitamin D test, an X-ray of the cervical spine (AP/lateral view), and possibly an MRI if the X-rays are not informative.

The treatment for this includes physiotherapy to relieve nerve compression, traction, a cervical collar, medications, and, if none of these help, surgery. In the meantime, you can take vitamin B complex tablets once a day, which is a nerve vitamin. You should consult a neurologist for these investigations. If the problem is sudden and short in duration, it could be a minor stroke and will require further investigation.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.