Authored by Dr Harsh Sharma, Edited and Peer Reviewed by Dr. Pooja Sharma

Published April 3, 2014, Last updated August 3, 2018

What is Cervical Spondylitis

In the modern world, one is getting used to TV screens and computer monitors everywhere, be it the office or the home. A corollary of this development is the common trouble of pain in the neck and the shoulder region. With passage of time, there are even some bony changes in the cervical spine which is due to the degeneration of the spinal column. The disc space becomes less than usual. There is the formation of osteophytes at the edges of the vertebra, which are small and rough areas of bone. The intervetebral discs tend to lose their normal hydration, become dry and lose height or in other words, they become thin. This whole process is known as Cervical Spondylosis. Although, this is a normal process of wear and tear that happens as we age, but in recent times, this process has been exaggerated or speeded up because of the lifestyle changes like excessive use of computers, TV and mobile phones on one hand and little exercise on the other hand.

Symptoms of cervical spondylitis

Pain in the neck is the most common symptom arising from cervical spondylitis. This pain may spread from the neck to the shoulders, top of the head, the arms on either side or even up to the hand or the fingers. The muscles of the neck and shoulders often feel stiff and the movement of the neck may be compromised or restricted. Pain in the head or heaviness in the head is another common symptom. The pain may be felt in the back of the head or in the forehead region. A sensation of numbness or crawling of ants may be felt in the hands or the arms. Some people express it as a feeling of pins and needles sticking in their hands or fingers.

Do’s and don’ts for cervical spondylitis

• Regular exercise is a must. Walking and rotatory movements of the neck help in keeping the muscles of the neck and the spine in good shape.
• Avoid bending forward. Bending backward is helpful.
• Make sure your posture is right. When you work on the computer, the height of the monitor should be such that the top of the monitor should be in line with your eyes.
• Take frequent breaks while working on the computer.
• Rest frequently and take short breaks if you have to work long hours on the computer. Even while sitting in front of the TV or driving for long hours, take a break and change your posture frequently.
• Exercise regularly. Bend your neck backwards as much as you can and hold it there for a while. Try to avoid bending forward or downwards.

How Homeopathy cures Cervical Spondylitis

Homoeopathic medicines are very effective in providing immediate relief to the pain and stiffness from cervical spondylitis. If taken for a certain period of time and after a proper consultation with a good doctor, these can provide a permanent cure to the cervical spondylitis. Homeopathic medicines like Gelsemium, Kalmia, Conium and Paris Quadrifolia are usually very helpful in the treatment of Cervical Spondylosis.