Symptoms
The symptoms of a cervical spine syndrome are varied. Pain often occurs in the neck and throat area and may radiate into one or both arms. Muscle hardening (so-called myogeloses) in the neck and arm area, as well as dizziness and headaches are also typical symptoms.
As a consequence of an acute cervical spine syndrome, a torticollis can develop. If the problem extends into the arms, tingling or numbness may also occur (so-called paresthesia/hypaesthesia) and in severely affected persons, paralysis may be noticeable. In some cases, visual disturbances and/or ringing in the ears may also occur.
The symptoms of the cervical spine syndrome are therefore very varied and do not always immediately indicate the cause of the problems. Especially symptoms such as headaches or dizziness can have very different origins, so that different factors must always be taken into account. You will find comprehensive information on this topic in the article “Cervical Spine Syndrome Symptoms” You will find comprehensive information on this topic in the article “Cervical Spine Syndrome Symptoms
Causes
The causes of the problem are as varied as the symptoms of the cervical spine syndrome. For example, degenerative changes (wear and tear) of the spine, which in turn can also have various causes, come into consideration. In addition, the so-called spinal nerves (the nerves that emerge from the vertebrae of the cervical spine) can be irritated and then cause pain and/or tingling sensations.
Such irritation can be caused by tension in the shoulder and neck muscles, instability of the cervical spine or degeneration of the vertebrae. The classic herniated disc and also whiplash as a result of an accident can also be causes for the cervical spine syndrome. In rare cases, a tumor can also be the trigger for the problem.
Furthermore, the blockage of one or more vertebrae and bad posture are possible causes. The psyche also plays an important role in this syndrome, since, for example, internal tension and occupational stress have a negative effect on posture and the sensitive structures of muscles and nerves. It is not uncommon for the problem to originate from the temporomandibular joint, which is connected to the neck and nape of the neck via various structures.
Stress is processed to a large extent in the jaw, so that this should definitely be taken into consideration as a trigger. This is only an extract of the possible causes. The trigger of the complaints varies from case to case and must be individually investigated. In most cases, several factors are involved at the same time and a comprehensive diagnosis is important in order to determine them. Topics that might interest you are:
- Physiotherapy for a cervical spine syndrome,
- Exercises against shoulder and neck pain,
- Exercises against headaches
- Disc protrusion in the HWS – Physiotherapy
- Pinched nerve in the cervical spine
