7 Common Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis You Shouldn’t Ignore

A stiff or aching neck is easy to dismiss, especially when the discomfort comes and goes. Over time, though, you may find it harder to turn your head, sleep comfortably, work, or enjoy everyday activities. When these symptoms linger, or new sensations such as tingling or weakness appear, they may signal cervical spondylosis.

At Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants in Oceanside and Encinitas, CA, our team includes Nathan Perrizo, DO, and Brooke Towne, MD, board-certified physicians with advanced training in pain medicine. They work closely with you to understand what’s causing your pain and find care options that can help you move and feel better.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis?

Some people have cervical spondylosis without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do develop, you may experience:

• Neck pain: A persistent ache or soreness may develop as joints and discs in the cervical spine change with age.
• Neck stiffness: Your neck may feel tight, especially after sitting in one position for a long period.
• Headaches: Cervical spine problems can sometimes be accompanied by headaches, particularly near the back of the head.
• Pain that travels into the shoulder or arm: Pressure or irritation around a cervical nerve may cause pain that extends beyond your neck.
• Numbness or tingling: Pins-and-needles sensations in your shoulders, arms, hands, or fingers can occur when nerve roots are compressed.
• Arm or hand weakness: You might notice trouble gripping objects, lifting an arm, or completing tasks that once felt easy.
• Problems with balance or coordination: Spinal cord compression can affect walking, balance, or hand coordination and deserves medical evaluation.

When Should You Have Neck Symptoms Checked?

Consider seeing a medical professional when neck pain:

• Persists or gets worse over time
• Occurs with numbness or tingling in your arms or hands
• Causes weakness in your arms or hands
• Affects your walking or balance
• Occurs with loss of bladder or bowel control, which requires prompt medical attention

Find Care for Cervical Spondylosis in Oceanside and Encinitas, CA

You don’t have to keep adjusting your routine around persistent neck discomfort. Our team at Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants can evaluate your symptoms and discuss care options based on what’s causing your pain. 

To schedule a consultation, call our Oceanside location at 760-941-7336 or 760-943-6494, or our Encinitas location at 760-753-1104.