Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
As your doctor said, you might be suffering from
cervical spondylosis. It is a common degenerative condition of the
cervical spine. It is most likely caused by age-related changes in the intervertebral disks.
You may get the X-ray of the area affected under his/her guidance to look for
arthritis or other changes in your spine.
Your doctor after diagnosing the condition may refer you for
physical therapy. The physical therapist will help you reduce your pain using stretches. The therapist will show you how to do exercises that make your neck muscles stronger.
You can take
analgesic and
muscle relaxant after discussing with your doctor.
You also need some life style modification like-
Do not sit for prolonged period of time in stressful postures
Do use firm collars while traveling
Do not lift heavy weights on head or back
Do not turn from your body but turn your body moving your feet first
Do turn to one side while getting up from lying down
Do the exercises prescribed regularly
Do use firm mattress, thin pillow or butterfly shaped pillow
Do not lie flat on your stomach.
Regards.
Dr Saurabh Gupta
Orthopaedic surgeon.