Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
What Is Cervical Spondylosis?
Cervical spondylosis is the medical term for age-related degeneration of the cervical spine (neck). It includes disc degeneration (drying and thinning of the intervertebral discs), osteophyte formation (bone spurs), and facet joint arthritis. By age 60, over 90% of people show some degree of cervical spondylosis on X-ray — though many have no symptoms at all.
In Faridabad, we see cervical spondylosis presenting earlier than the global average, likely due to the prevalence of desk jobs, smartphone use, and long driving commutes that accelerate cervical degeneration.
Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
- Persistent neck pain and stiffness, especially in the morning
- Reduced range of motion — difficulty turning the head fully
- Headaches originating from the neck (cervicogenic headaches)
- Grinding or clicking sounds with neck movement
- Tingling or numbness in the arms, hands, or fingers
- Weakness in the arms or hands in severe cases
- In advanced cases: balance problems, difficulty walking (cervical myelopathy)
What Causes Cervical Spondylosis to Progress?
Genetics play a role, but lifestyle factors significantly accelerate progression:
- Forward head posture — for every centimetre the head moves forward, cervical loading increases by 2.5 kg
- Prolonged screen use without breaks
- Sleeping with an unsupportive pillow (too high, too flat, or too firm)
- High-impact activities without proper conditioning
- Smoking — reduces disc nutrition and accelerates degeneration
Physiotherapy Treatment for Cervical Spondylosis
Manual Therapy
Gentle joint mobilisation techniques restore restricted cervical segment mobility. We use Maitland grade I–III mobilisations for pain relief and grade IV for restoring range of motion. Soft tissue release targets the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and deep cervical muscles that spasm around degenerated segments.
Traction
Mechanical or manual cervical traction reduces nerve root compression by increasing foraminal space. Particularly effective for radicular symptoms (tingling, numbness in the arm). We use intermittent traction in the clinic and prescribe home traction for appropriate patients.
Therapeutic Exercises
Key exercises for cervical spondylosis management:
- Chin tucks — strengthens deep cervical flexors, corrects forward head posture
- Cervical retraction and extension — based on McKenzie directional preference assessment
- Isometric neck exercises — builds supporting muscle strength without loading degenerated joints
- Scapular stabilisation — reduces upper trapezius overactivity
- Thoracic extension — addressing the mid-back stiffness that drives cervical compensation
Electrotherapy
IFT and TENS provide effective pain relief. Ultrasound therapy reduces inflammation around osteophytes and promotes soft tissue healing. Heat therapy before exercise, cold therapy for acute flare-ups.
Postural Re-education
Correcting the forward head posture that accelerates cervical degeneration is essential. We assess and modify workstation ergonomics, driving position, and sleep setup.
Can Physiotherapy Reverse Cervical Spondylosis?
Physiotherapy cannot reverse the structural bony changes of cervical spondylosis. However, it can significantly reduce symptoms, slow progression, restore mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and help most patients avoid surgery. The majority of patients with cervical spondylosis achieve excellent pain control and functional recovery with physiotherapy.
When Is Surgery Needed?
Surgery is considered only when conservative management (including physiotherapy) has failed after 6–12 weeks, when there is progressive neurological deficit, or when cervical myelopathy (spinal cord compression) is causing balance and coordination problems. The vast majority of patients do not require surgery.
Get Expert Cervical Spondylosis Treatment in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic in NIT-5, Faridabad, we treat cervical spondylosis daily with individualised programmes that combine manual therapy, specific exercise, and postural correction. Book your assessment today.