CERVICAL SPONDYLITIS

By Shikha SaxenaRoll No. 17

INTRODUCTIONInflammation of one or multiple bony

vertebrae of the spine.Spondylitis is one of the most common causes

of back and neck pain and is essentially the result of an inflammation of the vertebral joints.

If not treated it may lead to Slipped disc, which if not treated leads to Spondylosis.

Cervical Spondylitis

Slipped Disc

Spondylosis

CausesAny injury to vertebrae or discSedentary life styleExcessive work for a long time causing

exhaustionLong term depression – due to deadline

stress, hopelessness, defeat, etc.Major risk factor is aging. By age 60, 70% if

women and 85% of men show changes consistent with cervical Spondylitis.

SymptomsNeck pain (may radiate to the arms or

shoulder)Loss of sensation or abnormal sensations of

the shoulders, arms or (rarely) legsWeakness of the arms or (rarely) legsNeck stiffness that progressively worsensLoss of balanceHeadaches, particularly in the back of the

headLoss of control of the bladder or bowels (if

spinal cord is compressed)

Yogic ManagementNeck and Spinal exercises: The simple

exercises of neck movements facilitate the practice of further range of Yogic techniques by loosening the joints and muscles. These practices are foreword, backward, sideward (turning and bending) and twisting movements.

Yogasanas: Tadasana, Katichakrasana, Ardha- chakrasana , Konasana, Pavanmuktasana, Ustrasana, Vakrasana, Bhujangasana, Dhanurasana, Makarasana and Shavasana

Yogic Management Cont..Pranayama: Ujjayi, Bhramari, Suryabhedana

and Anulom-vilomMeditation: Full body awareness

Tips to a Healthier NeckAlways stretch before exercise or other strenuous physical

activityAt home or work, make sure the work surface is at a

comfortable heightDon’t lean when standing or sitting. When standing keep the

weight balanced on the feet.Sit in a chair with good lumbar support and proper position

and height for the task. Keep the shoulders back. Switch sitting positions often and periodically walk around the office or gently stretch muscles to relieve tension. If one must sit for a long period of time, rest the feet on a low stool.

Wear comfortable, low heeled shoes.Avoid weight lifting in poor postures.

Tips to a Healthier NeckSleep on the side to reduce ay curve in the

spine. Always sleep on a firm surface.Maintain proper nutrition and diet to reduce and

prevent excessive weight. A diet with sufficient daily intake of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D helps to promote proper bone growth.

If one smokes, quit smoking. Smoking reduces blood flow to the spine and causes the spinal discs to degenerate.

Avoid excessive stress. Stress will also contribute to the pain intensity.

Thank You!