Cervical Spondylolysis
Cervical spondylolysis is a degenerative condition like arthritis most often seen in people 40 and older. It occurs when the joints, discs, and ligaments in the neck degenerate over time, forming small bony spurs and thinning of the discs.
Signs and symptoms
(may include one or more):
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Pain radiating to the arms and hands
- Muscle spasms in the neck
- Grinding or crackling sound when moving neck
- Weakness in the arms
- Numbness in the hands
Why it hurts:
Cervical spondylolysis may compress nerves extending from cervical vertebrae or reduce the diameter of the spinal canal, which houses the spinal cord and other nerves.