Degree of disability (GdB)
In the case of a chronic cervical spine syndrome, no general degree of disability can be determined. The degree is primarily aimed at Provided that there is no restriction of movement or instability, the degree of disability in chronic cervical spine syndrome is zero. In the case of minor functional limitations, a maximum degree of disability of ten is usually specified.
The maximum value of 100 is usually not reached until the patient is unable to walk or stand, which a chronic cervical spine syndrome alone usually does not lead to. Between these extremes, in principle, all gradations are possible. – The extent of the movement restriction,
- Any deformation or instability of the spinal column
- And the number of affected spinal column sections.
Is a chronic cervical syndrome curable?
Once a cervical spine syndrome has become chronic, often no complete cure can be achieved and the affected person suffers sometimes more and sometimes less from the symptoms. The aim of the treatment of a chronic cervical spine syndrome is therefore usually no longer the healing but the best possible alleviation and control of the symptoms. This is achieved through various factors, such as Often, in the case of chronic complaints, social and psychological factors also have a great influence on the development and perception of complaints, so that the best possible handling of the symptoms is also strived for in these aspects through support. In some cases it is even possible to achieve freedom from symptoms after some time and thus to achieve a cure. – the learning of relaxation techniques,
- Regular physical activity and
- The occasional use of painkillers.
Sick leave
In the case of a cervical spine syndrome, the doctor often issues a certificate of incapacity to work (“sick note”) for a few days. This is necessary if the symptoms can be attributed to the work or if a worsening of the symptoms can be expected through further work. However, the sick note should definitely be used to help combat the causes of the cervical spine syndrome through physical activity.
Under no circumstances should one simply take it easy on oneself in such a case. Frequent and long-lasting sick leave for a cervical spine syndrome should generally be avoided, as this is more likely to contribute to a chronification of the symptoms. A chronic cervical spine syndrome as well as other diseases of the spine are among the most common causes of early retirement.
However, most applications for reduced earning capacity due to back problems are initially rejected by the German Pension Insurance. Often several rehabilitation measures have to be carried out first and lengthy medical assessments have to be made. It is also strongly recommended that people with cervical spine syndrome take active measures early on to prevent long-term incapacity to work.
An important aspect here is the regular implementation of a professionally balancing and individually suitable exercise programme. Only if, despite all efforts and the best possible social and psychological support, there is no prospect of maintaining the ability to work, should an application for early retirement be considered. Support is usually provided by the family doctor.
The continuation of the topic can be found here: Cervical Spine Syndrome – Effects and ConsequencesThe pseudo-radicular symptoms of a chronic cervical spine syndrome are radiating pain or sensations such as tingling or numbness in the shoulders or arms, which cannot be clearly assigned to the area of supply of individual nerves or segments. In contrast to the radicular symptoms, pseudoradicular symptoms do not arise from the localised impairment of an individual nerve or nerve fibre, but rather from a non-specific irritation of nerves, for example through muscle tension in the neck. Further secondary diseases of the cervical spine syndrome can be found under: Cervical spine syndrome – effects and consequences