Introduction

The cervical spine is considered the cornerstone for supporting head movement, protecting the spinal cord, and facilitating blood flow to the brain. Given its complex anatomical structure (7 vertebrae, joints, ligaments, and intervertebral discs), it is susceptible to diverse problems ranging from minor pain related to poor posture to severe degenerative disorders such as Cervical Spondylosis and Cervical Disc Prolapse.

This lecture highlights:

1. Clinical classification of neck pain into 4 grades (I to IV) based on symptom severity and impact on daily activities.

2. Pain patterns and radiation, including:

   • Localized or referred somatic pain.

   • Radicular pain resulting from nerve compression.

3. Primary causes, most notably:

   • Postural syndromes in sedentary young individuals.

   • Age-related degenerative changes (e.g., disc desiccation and osteophyte formation).

4. Accurate diagnosis through:

   • X-rays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Computed Tomography (CT).

5. Comprehensive therapeutic strategies, such as:

   • Physical therapy (heat therapy, cervical traction, isometric exercises).

   • Pharmacological and surgical interventions for advanced cases.

   • Posture correction and deep neck muscle strengthening.

This lecture aims to provide a practical framework for understanding cervical pain mechanisms and deliver effective diagnostic and therapeutic tools to improve patients' quality of life.

Description

Learning Outcomes

1. Analyze the functional anatomy of the cervical spine.

2. Classify neck pain clinically according to severity grades (I–IV).

3. Differentiate neck pain patterns and their distribution (somatic vs. radicular).

4. Correlate primary causes with patient categories (age/lifestyle).

5. Evaluate the roles of diagnostic imaging modalities (X-ray, MRI, CT).

6. Apply non-surgical therapeutic strategies (physical therapy/posture correction).

7. Propose pharmacological/surgical interventions for advanced cases.

8. Design a preventive plan to strengthen neck muscles and improve quality of life.

Course Content

Cervical Problems and Their Treatment

Cervical Problems and Their Treatment