Normal Cervical Spine X-ray
The cervical spine is the part of the spine that is present in the neck region. It is formed by first 7 vertebrae of the spine numbered from C1 to C7.
The spine begins with C1 vertebra which is also called Atlas. Next vertebra is Axis.
Seventh cervical vertebra or C7 is also called vertebra prominens.
It must be noted that normal cervical spine x-rays do not exclude significant injury.
The lateral view is often the most informative image. In a lateral view first thing to look for is if the cervical spine is adequately covered in the view. Next, alignment of the vertebrae is looked for. Normal cervical spine x-ray would reveal a smooth lordotic curve and any loss of lordosis indicates spasm.
Vertebrae are studied for smooth cortical outline and height. Disc spaces are looked for any reduction of space. Prevertebral shadow is studied for any increase in width.
A normal cervical spine x-ray – Lateral View
Coverage
All vertebrae are visible should be visible from skull base to the top of T1 is considered adequate.
If T1 is not visible then a repeat image with the patient’s shoulders lowered. Otherwise, a swimmer’s view may be acquired.
Alignment
Anterior line or the line of the anterior longitudinal ligament [line formed by connecting anterior margins of cervical vertebral body], the posterior line the line of the posterior longitudinal ligament formed by connecting posterior margins of cervical vertebrae] and the spinolaminar line or the line formed by the anterior edge of the spinous processes are checked for continuity.
Vertebrae
Cortical outline of all the bones should be checked for fractures.
Disc spaces
The vertebral bodies are spaced apart by the intervertebral discs – not directly visible with X-rays. These spaces should be approximately equal in height increase as we come lower down.
Prevertebral soft tissue
Some fractures cause widening of the prevertebral soft tissue due to the prevertebral hematoma. The width is measured between the anterior line and anterior margin of soft tissue visible on the x-ray.
– The normal prevertebral soft tissue is narrow down to C4 and wider below
– Above C4 -1/3rd vertebral body width
– Below C4 – 100% vertebral body width
This x-ray shows a normal cervical spine. The present x-ray shows vertebra from C1 to C7.
The view in the present picture is lateral view.
As you can view it, normal cervical spine appears lordotic. That means the anterior part of the spine appears convex and posterior concave.
Normal Cervical Spine Xray – AP View
Coverage
The AP view should cover the whole cervical spine and the upper thoracic spine.
Alignment
The lateral edges of the cervical spine are aligned.
Bone
Check for bony integrity to rule out fractures
Spacing
The spinous processes are in a straight line and spaced approximately evenly.
In diseases or spasm of the cervical spine, this lordosis of the normal cervical spine is lost.
Most common of these causes a change in curvature is cervical spondylosis.
For examination of the cervical spine, both anteroposterior and lateral views are required. Though both the views are important, the lateral view is more informative.
Special view radiographs may be required in many cases for proper diagnosis of the disease.
Cervical spine x-ray can be taken in standing position or lying down on the table.
The first method is done routinely on ambulatory patients in the outpatient department. Lying down method is done in cases of injury or patients who cannot stand.
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having severe headache and feeling like something is put on the head. feeling like jam. i don't have shoulder pain, neck pain, hand pain. is it because of cervical spondalisis. is there any medicine or treatment
@bhushan chavan,
I would suggest you to visit a physician who would help you with your problem and make a diagnosis
I am working on computer for 10 to12 hour contineously. about last 20 days I am suffering from
a neck pain contineously. I consulted a doctor. first he said there is no cervical pain. but after one week after saw my X-ray she said it was cervical in its initioal age. she advise me some exercise. but I find no relief. when I went again to doctor she said only excerse is its treatment.
weather I need a long rest.
weather I should get other treatment or medicine
Is only exercise its treatment.
weather I will be fine again
@narendra kumar,
Cervical pain is very common problem in computer professionals and those who use it for substantial time.
For treatment you need to work on the root cause as well.
You must take frequent breaks when you work on computer.
You should set your screen in such a way that your neck should not bend. Tilting it back would help.
If you use lap top, I would advise you to use table instead of lap because the lap position makes you to bend.
The treatment is medicines for pain and physiotherapy for neck muscles.
The next option is traction but that is only for severe pains.
As yours is said to be in initial stage you should get better with former treatment.
It might take some time though.
I FACING PROBLEM ON NECK AND BEHIND SIDE OF HEAD , I TAKE NO OF MEDICINE BUT NO BENIFIT DR SUGEST ME THIS PROBLEM IS SICOLOGICAL , AND TAKE M R I IS THAT TRUE— PROBLEM IS FROM LAST THREE MONTH , AND AGE 31 MY ENGLISH IS POOR SORY FOR THAT
Dipak,
Please get yourself examined by another doctor. You need to be diagnosed yet and I cannot do that beause of obvious constraints.
I can provide you inormation on a particular topic if you want. Just let me know.
what is a "stable syrinx " of the lower cervical & upper thoracic spinal cord?
@evelyn odonnell,
dilatation of spinal cord is called syrinx. I think stable would indicate that dilatation is not increasing further.
I had a car accident and I had a cervical sprain or whiplash. I went to a an orthopedist and he ordered some X-rays. the only thing that is not normal in the x-ray is the cervical lordosis i think is called like that the loss of the curve.
since that time I have a very intense pain in my neck, back and shoulders. when the pain is more intense i also have headache and vertigo. I told the orthopedist about this symptoms but he said it had nothing to do with a neck injury. it's been more than a mont and I'm worried cause apart from thos symptoms I started feeling numbness in three fingers, and sometimes i feel a sensation similar to a electric shok in my pinky.
I feel it more often when I wake up in the morning.
@Giselle,
The signs you describe probaly appear to be due to cervical spondylosis.
A loss of lordotic curve also suggests this.
Visit your doctor and start the treatment which would consist of analgesics, physio and if required , traction.
I hope that helps.
I suffer from trapezius muscle spasms since I was a teenager (I'm 36 now) and always thought it was related to a muscular problem. No previous h/o trauma in the although I practiced martial arts for a few years (jiu-jitsu). For the past 2-3 years, especially in the last year, the pain has been very annoying and disturbing. Not intense, but always there with some periods of exacerbation and worsening. I don't and never had sensory or any motor deficits associated. I had an x-ray of the neck done last week and the results are shown as below (I'm a family physician):
"Mild reversal of normal mid cervical lordosis is present with grossly satisfactory vertebral alignment. No fracture or subluxation is detected. Prevertebral soft tissues are normal.
Partial bony fusion is present at the C5 and C6 vertebral bodies. Mild-moderate degenerative changes in the mid cervical spine include disc space narrowing, end plate sclerosis and marginal osteophytosis.
Lateral flexion/extension views show no evidence of ligamentous instability although C7-T1 interface is obscured on the flexion maneuver."
Do you have any recommendations and/or know of the idea of the diagnosis and prognosis? WHat can be done? Thank you so much.
@Sashi,
Symptoms are suggestive of early cervical spondylosis. Analgesis. physiotherapy and/or traction would help you.
Dear Singh,
Thanks for your input. THat's what I had in mind. However, I have been discussing with other peers and no one has ever been able to give me a good answer. If I do all the PT and traction, etc… over time, with the degeneration and progression of the cervical spondylosis, is there a significant chance I might end up in a wheelchair because of this?
@Sashi,
Usually it does not happen that way. Why do you have partial fusion?
I don't know why I have partial fusion. Like I said above, I've always had neck pain (no known history of trauma). I practiced Brazilian jiu-jitsu for many years…. maybe it had something to do with it…
@Sashi,
Ok! Keep a watch on your neck developments. Spondylosis is usually a benign but discomforting problem.
Get in touch with your treating doctor who shall be in position to tell you more about your situation and the treatment you need.
Good luck
Excellent!
Thank you so much for your input and attentiveness. Just one more question: I was told by a my chiropractor that I should avoid jogging because of the head weight impact on the neck. The neurosurgeon said that there is no problem. What is your opinion on this?
Sashi
@Sashi,
Jogging should not be a problem.
Hello,
i am having pain in my neck, and i kind of have one f my vertibrae in my upper back/neck that sticks out quite far, is this normal? i think i have forward head posture abit, but i am only 15 and when i try and move my head back into position the vertibrae above the one that sticks out sort of goes back and sits horizontaly to the vertibrae tat stick out, this this normal?
thanks
@Freddie,
Get a check up. Your queries would be answered better.
Dear Doctor,
An MRI revealed Disc bulge and osteophytic lipping at C5/6 resulting in asymmetric left neural canal narrowing and exiting nerve root impingement and mild osteophytic lipping at C4/5
Please let me know if this can be cured without surgery and any long term solution
Please give your advice
Regards
@Aslam,
I think you would be better served by your treating doctor. In these situations, the treatment is based on your symptoms and not the pictures.
I was in a rearend collision in 1988. I didn't have neck pain originally. When it got to a point that I couldn't handle it. I went to the base doctor. He didn't perform any xrays. He cracked my neck and said that it was malalighned. I never went back because of the doctors manners. When I got out of the service within a couple months, I went to a chiropractor. I had loss of lordotic curve and scoliosis. I never had this before. I went to many more doctors and another chiropractor with no help for the neck, back or headaches that I had. Xrays have always said that I had loss of lordortic curve. An MRI I had showed minor disc bulges at c2 to c3 and c6 to c7.
Now 22 years later. I have loss of lordotic curve in my entire spine, fibromyalgia, central pain syndrome, terminal dribbling and increase urination since I was 29 years old. Depression related to chronic pain.
My symptoms are neck pain, low back pain, jaw pain, chest pain near ribcage in middle of chest, bilateral pinky finger numbness and tingling, knee pain and many ankle and toe issues, asthma, lipomas in neck area where I have the pain. I've had one deep subfacial Lipoma removed.
I've had bilateral cubital tunnel surgery that did'nt help the finger numbness.
I've been told by a neurologist, pain doctor, and reumatologist that there is nothing I can do for it besides managing the pain. I quit taking narcotics because I had to keep increasing the dose. I've taken numerous muscle relaxers, anti inflamatorys, physical therapy, injections, and even used a tens machine. This machine made the pain more intense. I couldn't handle it. I'm presently on numerous medications for all of these conditions. The pain in the neck and daily headaches never go away. My depression is getting under control even though I have bad days.
I'm lucky because my employer knows of my issues and works with me.
Do you think from all the symptoms that I've mention, am I beyond help?
@Rod,
Because your main complaint is pain, the first target is to relieve pain. There are medications that can help you but you have to take them.
Chronic pains need constant management and are quite discomforting. The key is to seek regular follow up and keep realistic expectations.
Take care.
Q: An xray showed I have large osteophytes in front of my spine, NOT on the side or back. They did
xrays because I have been having problems with RUQ pain which they think may be nerve entrapment, and also having problems with syncope, fainting, BP fluctuations, etc. Checked carotid arteries for blood flow to brain normal, EEGs normal, brain scan normal, heart echo normal, EKG normal. My RUQ pain looked gastro because spasms and pain initially were 45 min. after eating but now, 18 months later, the pain is there all the time. Gastro lab work came back normal, endoscopy normal, colonscopy normal.
Doc said compression of nerves in front of spine could be causing RUQ pain. What do you think?
@tricia,
What is the level of the osteophyte?
The osteophytes are on each cervical and each thoracic vertebrae. The doctor said they are very large.
I have an thoracic MRI tomorrow to see if there is nerve entrapment. Have you ever heard of
osteophytes on the spine causing RUQ pain? I also have swelling like a golf ball under my rib cage
but they checked me for sphincter of oddi and all the results came back normal. that is why they
are looking at the spine.
Also, orthopedic doc was quite concerned about my neck and the numbness in the rt. arm that is
intermittent. We're going to wait on that until I can get out of the agonizing pain in the RUQ.
My rt. abdomen is always sore from the rib around to the back and moving feels like velcro being pulled.
Breathing frequently makes it much worse. When I go swimming the pain puts me in bed with vicodin for 2 days. I'd like to have my life back!
No accidents, falls, etc. Just had gastritis 18 months ago and it's been a nightmare ever since.
John Hopkins neurologist said my problems are from being overweight, 60 yr. old and a diabetic.
Jerk! My Virginia neurologist couldn't believe I got such bad treatment at John Hopkins. Unfortunately my
appointment was at a satelight office, at 4 pm and the doc didn't have computer access to my JH files
in the main computer, electronic medical records. I had brought my own copies but he wasn't prepared to look at them so he called and had my Virginia neurologist's office send them all again. Nightmare!
Hi, im 20 and since 2 month's ago i had a light pain in my shoulderleaf, it wasent to bad but it gotten worse. On reccomendation from my doctor i went to uhm a pyrocracer i think i should call it ( sorry bad english ) now my neck had problems and i have pain all over my back , it randomly comes and goes if i sit for 30 mins it grows worse again. And i cant turn my neck as much to the left side as i can to the right . I stayed at home from work because of the pain and went to another doctor now he said i should get an x ray because he thinks i have scoliose. I dont know what to do anymore i can only hope that he is rong. anyway tommorow im getting an x ray or ct scan from my back i hope this will give me some ansers and hope for the best. Life really sucks this way .
Tricia,
Re post meal RUQ: Did they consider gallstones?
@tricia,
From your description it seems less likely that pain is from spine.
Seems like that it comes from thorax or abdomen.
I understand your plight but sometimes diagnosis is quite difficult to reach at.
All the best. Let me know what happens.
@Kevin,
I think you mean chiropractor.
You seem to have pain originating from your cervical spine. If xray is not of much help and investigation like CT or MRI should help.
Let me know if a conclusion was made after your fresh investigations.
My wife is having some symptoms of vomitting, dizziness which happens after every 2/3 days. There’s pain in the neck too and it spreads towards the wrist over the nerve. Visited Doctor and he prescribed few medicines and after which he advised to do the x-ray of cervical spine and even CT scan of brain. Pls advice what do you think from all the symptoms that I’ve mentioned.
i am 26 yrs old.offlate a have a lot of pain in the back of my neck.it is sometimes on the right side and sometimes on the left.i find it difficult to lift weight or turn on the side of the pain.it is also difficult to sleep on the side of the pain.it occurs quite often especially when i have to do jobs which require bending and sitting in one position.once the pain occurs , it lasts for atleast 10 to 12 days.my x-ray report is normal.i am afraid can it be cervical spondylitis?
Hi, Just a quick question. What is anterior lipping of the endplates in reference to the lumbar spine? Also what does disc space narrowing in the L 4-5 mean? Thanks. Liz
Possibly one of the worst pains i have ever felt the second time i fractured my C7 although the first time i did, i did not realise
@supriya,
Try taking frequent breaks from your continuous sitting routine. Your neck appears to be strained.
Yes! It can be. Discuss it with your doctor.
@SASANKA DEBNATH,
What does CT and cervical spine xray say. The information you provided is too little to deduce anything.
@LIZ,
Lipping means end plates coming near. Disc space is the space between two adjacent vertebrae. L4-L5 disc space narrowing means decrease in space height identified by decrease in distance between margins of vertebrae in lateral view of spine.
can u give me some links showing x-rays of patients of cervical spondylitis…….
I am going to a neutralist tomorrow. my ears ring for a second and at that time I feel tingling in the roof of my mouth and finger tips. I have seen an ENT. I have had tinnitus all my life, new symptom is like tinnitus, but more like a flash of sound. I was reading about Cervical Spondylosis and looking at my CT, no space between C1 and C2. just looking for your Independent thoughts.
My CT scan –[URL removed for privacy reasons]
NOTE: I was a truck driver for 23 yrs , hitting my head on the roof of truck going over bumps daily. pain in between should blades after driving for hours.
hi, I am in my early 20's and my MRI's from May I was told my spine was in perfect health, however I just had xrays and a cat scan for possible kidney stones I am wondering if the results should concern me or if it is reversible, etc.
“Subchondral cysts are present within the pubic symphysis.
Bilateral degenerative changes of the spine, with Pubic Symphysitis present.
There is mild thoracic dextroscoliosis and lumbar levoscoliosis present.”
“Review of previous sagittal CT September 2010 revealed hypoplastic inferior facets of L5 and grade 1 spondylolisthesis of L5 on S1 2.
Multiple small calcified densities are seen in the stomach, No other acute findings in abdomen.”
any thoughts?
thank you.
@Balkesh Narang,
I do not have right now but would be publishing soon. You can join RSS subscribers list and you would be updated as they are published.
@Kevin Moore,
You have straightening of cervical spine which indicates early cervical spondylosis. Your image was too small to deduce but grossly everything else appeared okay.
How are you now?
Thank you for your reply!
My Otolaryngologist ENT and my neutralist ordered a set of MRIs, the results are still not back , symptoms are unchanged. The neutralist seemed to think it was just stress / fatigue, It would be nice if it was that simple, but going on three months now I feel otherwise. We will see.
Thank you!
@June,
Only thing that should be watched is spondylolisthesis. Follow up radiology would tell if it is progressive or not.
As of now there is no symptom so you should not worry but do keep a watch.
There is mild curve in thoracic and lumbar spine but I think they would be compensating for each other.
Consult a gastro specialist for your stomach finding.
Hi I have just had an xray done because my neck hurts after lifting a heavy bin at work.. the pain is in my neck and base of my skull. It sometimes goes to my ears and sides of my face. and sometimes in my shoulder blades and ribs. It all started 1 month ago. xrays say small anterior osteophytes in the C4 and C5 suggesting a mild disc degeneration . So how can I stop this unbearable neck pain. Dr. let me suggest accupunture and chiropracter. I have also experienced the feeling of choking while laying down and felt like I can't breathe good and my neck is exploding at times. Do you think this is all it is… What should I do? Should I get more tests done?
@Kevin Moore,
How are things now?
@Rose,
Did you see a doctor. I hope you are taking medications.
Hello. I am hopeful you can provide some guidance on a frustrating situation. Over the past three years, I've had some odd occurrences that may not be related, but all involve pain or discomfort. About three years ago, I had a feeling of intense burning in my upper left thigh; similar to having multiple bee stings in one area. There was no redness, no inflammation nor visible sign of injury, bite or otherwise. As quickly as it came on, it just as quickly resolved and I've never had a recurrence. About 2 years ago, I began to experience severe neck pain which I attributed to working out pretty intensely at the gym. Driving was impossible; I couldn't look in the side and rear view mirrors and suffered chronic aches and shooting pain exacerbated by turning my neck from side to side. After seeing a chiropractor for about two months, undergoing ultrasound heat massage, e-stimulation, and massage, I finally regained mobility and was able to move without pain. I would have occasional flareups, but after a visit to my rheumatologist who prescribed prednisone and/or NSAIDs, could usually get passed the pain and stiffness within a few days.
Sometimes during and in between flare ups, for no apparent reason, I would experience vertigo (spinning) to the extent that I couldn't stand without fear of falling. My husband took me to the hospital during one severe episode (because stroke runs in my immediate family). The E.R. docs concluded no signs of stroke, no infections in the sinuses or ears, so I was sent home with meclizine and no dx.
About one month ago, I had such severe muscle spasms in the cervical area (my neck was locked in place) that I again sought treatment from my rheumatologist. After ordering x-rays and MRIs of the neck, it was found that I have cervical spondylosis with mild to moderate anterior disc bulging between c3-c4-c5-c6-c7 and no neural formina or spinal cord compression. Some osteophyte formation is present and there is lack of lordosis. I was treated with cortisone injections for the muscular spasms in the neck, but was eventually taken off prednisone, lyrica, and amrix. The severe spasms have subsided, but I'm still experiencing constant nagging pain, have numbness throughout my body, no feeling in my fingertips, have lost taste in my mouth, and have itching on my left shoulder, arm and hands that is "under the skin." I also have occasional piercing/stabbing eye pain that comes and goes abruptly.
My rheumatologist does not believe that the MRI results, which appear to be consistent with someone of my age who does not do manual labor but is physically active, can cause the amount of pain and other issues I am having. I am a 42 year old female that has tested negative for rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, nor do I have ankylosing spondolytis. I do have occasional sciatic pain and muscular pain, but both have calmed down with the treatment of celebrex.
The rheumatologist wants me to seek consultation from a neurologist. However, it would seem that with cervical spondylosis, all of the symptoms I am having could very well be related to compressed nerves.
Do you see patients that present with similar symptoms even though the MRIs may not seem indicative of severe compression? I look forward to your thoughts!
Hi Dr,
I have neck pain from a small fall and went to see a chiropractor who has examined me and said I need a lot of treatment (about 15 sessions). He took x-rays and when showing me then said that my Cervical spine was straight and should be curved. However when he took the xrays he told me to stretch my neck as high as I could and also positioned it for me. Is this guy conning me?
There is no doubt that my neck is painful but I wonder if he is trying to scare me into having more treatment?
Thanks
Hi. im sorry if its not related. I am just wondering how many positions the normal cervical xray usually performs by radiologist? I had 5 positions and another extra 1 for my cervical because one of them are blurry. Is it still in the range of normal/safe radiation dosage?
thank you.
@LK,
You seem to have symptoms that indicate a mixed origin. Your mouth and eye sensations are controlled by brain and not by cervical spine.
Though most of your symptoms do fit in cervical region but seeking a neurologist opinion becomes important in wake of central nervous symptoms.
You also must consult a specialist in spine/orthopedic surgeon.
Let me know.
Mr. Ognyanov is 25 year old man, suffered an injury of C spine due to sport accident (wrestling).22OCT2010 he was admitted to this hospital with a C-spine fracture at level C5-C6. He suffered a partial spinal cord injury – there is movement of shoulders and flexion in elbows, there is a plegia of lower extremities. The ventral stabilization of C4-C6 was performed the same day. After surgery he was extubated and spontaneously ventilated until 31OCT2010 when he was intubated and artificially ventilated for nasocomial pneumonia. Antibiotic was given, repeated bronchoscopic lavage was performed. The tracheostomy was performed.
Now the patient is on artificially ventilation, pressure support, FiO2 60%, PEEP 6 mBar, febrile 38.4°C. There are sudden episodes of desaturation which can be resolved by bronchoscopy lavage. The neck have to be stabilized by Philadelphia cervical collar during rehabilitation and manipulation.
WHAT ABOUT? I NEED INFORMATION, PLS, D-R !!!!!
25 year old man, suffered an injury of C spine due to sport accident (wrestling).22OCT2010 he was admitted to this hospital with a C-spine fracture at level C5-C6. He suffered a partial spinal cord injury – there is movement of shoulders and flexion in elbows, there is a plegia of lower extremities. The ventral stabilization of C4-C6 was performed the same day. After surgery he was extubated and spontaneously ventilated until 31OCT2010 when he was intubated and artificially ventilated for nasocomial pneumonia. Antibiotic was given, repeated bronchoscopic lavage was performed. The tracheostomy was performed.
Now the patient is on artificially ventilation, pressure support, FiO2 60%, PEEP 6 mBar, febrile 38.4°C. There are sudden episodes of desaturation which can be resolved by bronchoscopy lavage. The neck have to be stabilized by Philadelphia cervical collar during rehabilitation and manipulation.
I NEED INFORMATION, PLS, D-R !!!!!
@andy,
i think it should be safe. There are many views for Cspine so the question is too generalized for a specific answer
Hi,
Was you not able to help me with my question?
Thanks
Andy
@Andy,
For a proper treatment please see a physician who specializes in spine.
maneuvers could be dangerous
@Andy,
I think I did answer your previous query. Is there anything else?
This website was never meant to address the critically serious patients, as in your case. Because the things might have changed by the time I answer the query. Any how how are things.
And what information you are looking for?
Hi ,
I have near constant dull jaw pain (primarily on left) , headaches on temples & back, neck pain.
There are other which are sharp or burning for a short time in the shoulder blades or deltoids or triceps.
There is also overall muscle weakness. I had some sinus symptoms & ear aches.
All this happened (sep 24) after lifting & pulling some heavy stuff for home and yard for 3 continuous days.
On the fourth day I had to hang decorative lights looking up for about 3 hrs.
By day 6 I was out. I got a sitff neck and went to the doc. I was given NSAID and muscle relaxants.
(ibuprofen+flkexiril for 1 week and naproxen +norflex for another week) . One doc felt it was sinus & gave me antibiotics. Nothing helped.
For the past 1.5 months I'm not on any meds, but the dull pain in jaw , neck & the overall muscle weakness is annoying .
Could this be cervical disc related ?
Thanks for your time.
Since having my 2nd baby five mnths ago, I've had neck pain. It's very painful to turn my head fully to the right or left.
I spoke to my Dr and she prescribed muscle relaxers, which did not work. Then at my request, I had xrays taken and I was told that I have arthritis neck (I'm 36) , mild disc space narrowing in mid cervical spine greatest at C5-C6, and slight foraminal encroachment at C5-C6 level bilaterally secondary to spurs.
I was simply told to take tylenol and that was it.
I'm wondering if you could explain what that actually means because I have no idea, and tylenol does nothing for my pain.
Am I going to have to live with this pain for the rest of my life? Will this condition worsen, and is there anything I can do to heal this?
Any advice is greatly appreciated! Thank you in advance.
Hi,
I had done my X-ray report and it says I have small anterior marginal osteophytes c4,c5 and c6 vertebra.
This was three months ago. I feel pain in my fingers and left leg during movement. I weight 90 kg height 5'2".age 42 years female.
Bowl and Bladder movement not regular. Gas, Bloating and tiredness happens since the morning.
Left side body feels numbness sometimes. chills happens in the nights every 15days or month without fever. I feel something choking in the throat and suddenly coughing while a sleep.
please help me out of this problem.
I appreciate your great help.
thanks
Hi,
when my hands are put upwards, it become freezed. No blood circulation. after that when I put my hands downwards, i can feel the blood flowing down till the tip of fingers. Consulted a physician. Took x-ray of cervical spine. He told I have a defect on one of the vertebra by birth. some extensions from vertebra to both sides. and there is some glands with it. and so the artery gets congested.
He suggested surgery and advised to consult a thoracic surgeon.
Please advice whether it can be cured by medicin.
Thanks,
sheniss.
@Ganesh,
The symptoms you describe are unlikely due to cervical disc.
@Dana Minch,
That means you have changes.
Cervical spondylosis responds to the treatment. While the physical changes cannot be reversed, discomfort can be addressed and generally responds to the treatment.
Anti inflammatory drugs and physiotherapy are mainstay of the treatment.
@raman patel,
You need to see a doctor whom you can consult and get examined.
Please see a doctor.
Hello doctor. I have been experiencing a lot of pain in my left shoulder blade. I have had a MRI of that area and it came back normal. Just a little wear and tear the doc said. My husband talked me into going to see his chiroprator. I don't like having my neck cracked or any part of me really. But, nevertheless, I went seeking some relief. The chiropractor took x-rays of my neck and said that the bottom 2 vertabre in my neck are too close together, like the cushion is gone. And also that the natural curve of the neck is not there. Mine is very straight. I have taken some pain meds and they help so very much, but my doctor has issues about prescribing them to me. So, I have no medicine except for Advil and I have to take handfuls of those to even touch the pain. Do you think surgery would end this cycle of pain?? I'm desperate to get this pain under control. Thanks in advance for your input.
Suzanne
@sheniss,
Looks like thoracic outlet syndrome. But you need to see a doctor for discussing the treatment.
Please suggest possible treatments to the problem.
@sheniss,
As I suggested please see a doctor. He would offer the treatment that suits you.
I am gussing as for as the condition is concerned. I cannot suggest the treatment. You need ot confirm the problem and then I may help you with generalized idea of the treatment.
@Suzanne,
Surgery!For what?
You said MRI reported normal.
If your symptoms are not being relieved, please see your doctor again.
hI my son has been in so much pain i have never seen him in so much pain in his back he was xrayed and told he has narrowing of the disks in his spine what causes this and how can he get relief .
@agnes,
You need to elaborate further. I cannot make much out of what you said. Try to provide as much information as you can.
Sir,
I have got breathing problems two or three times in a day for 5 minutes, for the last one year. Is this TB symtoms or a cold affects. I have got pains in joints and neck also. Please suggest me your guidance, Mr. Dr. Arun.
Dear Sir,
Last few days I feel severe left side neck pain.My BP is 130/80 ,age 35.I take pain killer last night & give warm hit in my neck.But still I feel pain. I have to office work is front of PC.Pls kindly advise
Regards
Sajal
I have continuos pain & numbness in my neck shoulder & left arm. this has extended to my left hand & affects the dexterity in my fingers. i can no longer play the guitar & typing is clumsy. I'm 49 & am today going for a cervical x-ray.
Does this sound like a trapped nerve & if so what can be done? I am undergoing physio without any success.
Regards nigel.
@sajid,
Please see a doctor if your symptoms are persistent.
@Sajal Mohajan,
Please see a doctor if you are looking for diagnosis and treatment.
@nigel tait,
Did you see a doctor?
Hi,
I am facing a problem of neck and shoulder pain… when i went to doctor they recommended for x ray …
x ray report was in the back side bone every bone has some space between it but two bones doesn't have gap whats the problem i don't know can you help me what is the problem what remedy should i take..
to say i am a software engineer i do desk work………………….
In 2007 i had an mri from a work related injury and was sent to see a neurologist. the mri showed minimal bulge in my neck and impression said normal mri but the neurologist said the mri wasnt normal because it showed a straight cervical spine due to muscle spasms which is like having a severe whiplash and he also said that the muscle spasm are whats keeping my neck straight and it will stay that way until the spasms go away which to me makes total sense knowing how our normal body mechanics works so he sent me for injections. i have had many injections including botox in my neck but nothing seems to work so since 2007 i have been dealing with neck pain but no one other then that neurologist even mentions my straight neck until i got injuried again july 2010 and this time the mri even mentioned my straight cervical neck with muscle spasms so off to a ortho doc i went and that doc even knowing the years i have been dealing with my neck problems put in his report to the comp board that the straightening of my neck showed in the mri was NORMAL because many people have them but im appauled because yes being a nurse i know some people have straight necks but since i never had any issues with my neck all my life until 2007 how can he say that its normal when i have severe muscle spasms? Because he said that comp thinks nothing is wrong with me so i dont know what to do from here or who i can go see who would specialize in this type of problem that is an actually medical doctor because even my physical therapist said i had severe musc;le spasms and documentated it but the compensation people dont listen to a PT's reports…any ideas? im out of options
Oh and my symptoms are numbness and tingling in my hands and fingers usually starting at my pinky working to the other fingers depending on what i am doing and when i bend my head forward my hands and fingers go numb an d pain shoots down my back, i cant bend my neck ear to shoulder because its been stuck since the botox injections i had 2 of, i cant bend my neck to look upward for longer then a few mins without pain and when i also bend backward looking up it feels like something is jabbing in my head…i have done everything except for surgery and everytime i over do it or get stressed out the pain gets so bad , i also have problems swallowing, not bad but not like i use to and lastly when i lay my head back in bed i feel like im choking but i report this to my pain doc i have seen since 2007 and the ortho doc but i get ignored…
@Sirisha Gundala,
There is not much information to deduce from. How many hours do you use computer.
Desktop? Laptop?
Do you use ergonomic furniture?
Can you write the xray report word by word.
How are you now?
@D Taylor,
How can I help you. I wish I could but it seems otherwise. Anything you want to know!
@D Taylor,
OK! Did you seek another opinion?
Is there any nerve root compression reported in the latest MRI?
If you feel you should seek another opinion from orthopedician/neurosurgeon dealing in cervical spine.
All the best.
Hi,
I am facing a problem of anterior wedged of D8 vertebral body as per my x-ray report.I consult with Dr. he gave some multi vitamin medicines and asked to do some exercise. Is this anterior wedged of vertebral is a serious problem….is it curable with exercise?. I am having too much pain in my back.
Kindly suggest what else i would do to cure it.
Dear Doctor
I have slight swelling on finger tips of both hands and also the palms, already 3-4 months.
I have taken a cervical spine X-ray and below is the report:
"The bony alignment and intervertebral spaces are preserved.
A small sclerotic focus is seen at the junction of the spinous process/laminae C7.
No fracture is seen."
The doctor also told me my neck bone is "too straight", instead of normal slight bend.
I wonder if this "straight neck" or the "sclerotic focus" could be the cause of my swelling hands??
What can I do to improve the ""straight neck"? Will this "sclerotic focus" grows bigger?
(I am male, 48 years)
Kind regards
i have severe pain due to marginal osteophytes at c4-c7.
Not able to sleep,Consulted 10-15 doctors,they said it is spondlytis but they are taking it lightly,I dont know what to say to make them understand that how severe it is.There is no machine to check the intensity of pain,i am writing this so that you can understnad how much severe it is.please give your suggestion
@sunny verma,
If it is mild, it should not be a problem. The compression would stay however.
What does your doctor say?
@Jack Teo,
No! neck is unlikely to be cause of finger swelling.
@Reena,
Did you get an MRI done? Marginal osteophytes usually do not cause severe pain.
I have had episodes of what is decribed as hemiplegic migraine over the past year quiet regular and lasting up to10 days at a time i have had mri normal results other than dehydration of disc spaces L2-L3 and L3/L4 dehydration and loss of vertical height at L5-S1.My left side is noticably much weaker that the right with muscel wastage now working on rebuilding this??
I still suffer from alot of shoulder blade pain and numbness of the face arm and hand restricted 2 the left side.Headaces are more aparent now than ever lasting days.
Intercrainial normal pulp sphenoid sinuses fuid filled?
Can you desiffer this and tell me i am not going slowly mad.I am taking inderal and pain relife.But i am slowly loosing my whole life because the drs tell me im fine and i am still scared to death of the paralises staying the next time it happens.What causes it how do i stop it .Thankyou for your time.
Hi! Well I've been had neck pain, upper back pain, and arm pain that goes all the way to my fingers. The pain started around 2008. It was just agitating pain at first that progressly got worst. Sometimes the pains so great I can not function. I've had an 2 xrays and an MRI. I've went to a neurologists and my diagnosis was a "straight neck " which is causing my muscles to not be in sync with each other, which is causing wide spread pain. I'm also had bad muscle spasms. The neurologists told me to do one simple exercise to strenghten the muscles in my neck. I've been doing these exercises constantly, but this pain is unbearable. I've called my regular doctor to see if he can give me something for this pain or send me for some injections. He's says that " narcotics" will not help me with this pain. I have not asked him for any "narcotics", nor do I have a history of taking narcotics besides having surgery and having a tooth pulled. Are there any kind of medication that is not a narcotic that can help me with this pain. Everytime I'm in a lot of pain my blood pressure jumps up. This pain has taken over my life and I need some relief. I cannot live the rest of my life in this pain. If you can give me some advice it would be greatly appreciated.
@tina,
I wish I could help you but you would be better served by consulting a neurosurgeon/neurologist.
@Junita,
It is a pain involving nerves and most likely originates in cervical spine. It cannot be just straightness of the neck that is responsible for the pain.
Rather, there would be some kind of compression on some nerve roots. If it is there, relieving it would help.
hi,i got my cervical spine x-ray of neck and doctor told me that my neck spine is tilted,i got this problem about 3 years ago when i use computers about 14-16 hours a day.Till yet it is not cured i think it puts pressure on my nerves leading to eye and head and my eyes keep on straining and i find it very difficult to use computers or watch tv.please suggest me.whats the problem and its cure.whenever i donot keep my neck straight i get my head uncomfortable also.
@Arash,
You need to see a doctor in person to get diagnosed and treated.
If you want to know more about some condtion, you are free to ask.
dear sir, i am suffering from neck disk problem since last one month. Doctors suggested for physiotherapy.
Pl suggest me is it right suggestion or not. I have acute pain in my left arm including three fingers thumb followed by two fingers.
@mohd aslam,
If you are looking for a second opinion, please see a doctor whom you can meet in person. It is not possible for me to to opine on your case without examination.
HI IF SOMEBODY CAN ADVISE ME O HOW TO TREAT MI PROBLEM, I HAD ONE ADJUSTMENT BY A CHIROPRQCTOR AND BECAUSE MI CERVICAL WAS LOOSING THE LORDOSIS,(WAS STRAIGHT UP)
HE MADE AN ADJUSTMENT TO GIVE THE NORMAL CURVE TO IT AND SINCE THEN Y FEEL MI HEAD VERY HEAVY AND MUSCLE PAIN LIKE SPASM,BUT ALSO AVERY TIME Y TURN MY HEAD THE TRACHEA ALL IS CLICKING AND MAKING SOUND LIKE TOUCHING THE CERVICAL SPINE,AND I CAN SEE ALL THE TRACHEA POPPING OUT, NO PAIN THERE BUT TALKED WITH "this" QUIROPRACTOR AND SAID ITS NORMAL….THEN UNDERGOING THREATMENT WITH DIFERENT QUIROPRACTOR AND SAID THAT NEVER SAW THAT CAIN OF PROBLEM AND DONTKNOW HOW TO FIX IT BECAUSE THERE IS NO PRECIDURE TO FOLLOW TO PUSH THE BONES FROM FRONT TO BACK…! BIT SCARED IF SOMEBODY CAN HELP PLEASE ,HE, AT THE MOMENT IS DOING TREATMENT TO RELEASE PRESURE FROM MUSCLE,THANK YOU SO MUCH.
@CARLOS MARCELO,
Please see a specialist in your vicinity.
Hi Arun,
My mother is feeling acute pain in neck for past 1 month. So when we went to doctor. She said it might be cervical and asked to go for the X-ray. Below are the results of the X-ray Report.
1. Straightening of normal curvature of cervical spine is maintained.
2. No 7th cervical rib is seen.
3. Changes of cervical spondylosis are visible in c5 and c6 vertebrae.
4. IVD space is intact
Can you please tell me what does this exactly means and what are is the treatment for this.
Thanks and Regards !
Neeraj Sharma
In nutshell, her report suggests that she has got cervical spondylosis. The treatment is rest, analgesics followed by exercises. You would need a consultation with a specialist for individual treatment prescription.
All the best.
My wife at 35 and current x-ray
X-RAY CERVICAL SPINE LAT
Normal alignment and mineralisation of cervical spine is noted.
Vertebral bodies and intervertebral disc spaces appear normal.
No evidence of erosion, wedging, abnormal sclersosis or congenital abnormality.
Vertebral appendages, apophyseal joints and precervical soft tissue appear normal on lateral view.
x-RAY LOWER DORSO/LUMBAR SPINE LAT
Normal alignment and mineralisation of D.L. spine under view is noted.
Small osteophytes early marginal lipping seen at L3 and L4 vertebrae.
Rest of vertebrae appear unremarkable.
Visible Intervertebral disc spaces of D.L. Spine under view appear normal.
No evidence of erosion, wedging or abnormal sclerosis is seen in D.L. spine under view.
No evidence of spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis is seen in lumbar spine.
Vertebral appendages, apophyseal joints appear normal.
Anything serious ?
Hi doctor,
I m having dis severe pain in neck and back side of head (scalp) for past few months.
I got my x-ray done but it doesnt shows cervical spondylitis. This pain sometimes leads to headache, vomiting and body also starts shaking.
what could b d possible reason?
There seem to be no answer as to what posterior lipping from the third cervical vertebrae downwards is. Could you be so kind as to say exactly what it is and its effect if it is free.
Thank you
Rev, Dr. E. Campbell.
Nothing serious in xrays. Mild spondylotic changes in lumbar spine. Bit early for age but not serious. Keep a healthy back schedule and healthy habits.
Take care.
Did you see a physician?
Rev. Dr Ernon Campbell,
Sir! Would you elaborate on your query please. Lipping is used for osteophyte formation. Thanks
AP and lateral views of the cervical spine reviewed.
There is reversal of the normal cervical lordosis in keeping with paraspinal muscle spasm.
There are degenerative endplate changing from the inferior endplates of c3 4 5 6 and 7 as evidence endplate sclerosis small anterior osteophytosis and mild dise height narrowing
The vertebral body heights , remaining disc spaces are Normal. The facet joints are unremarkable.
Impression
Diffuse degenerative disc changes from c4-7-T1 with associated paraspinal muscle spasm.
what would be your diagnosis of that one
Shan,
That means that there are wear and tear changes in your spine. In medical term it is called spondylosis. As it is in cervical region, it is called cervical spondylosis.
Muscle spasm is part of the problem. Please see a physician who would guide you about treatment and precautions you need to take.
Hi Doctor,
I am 30 yrs old female . Im a pole dancer. 2 nights ago July 28 2016 I went for my headstand /handstand class.My first time by the way. I always have fear doing it , by joining it I thought this is will help me get rid of my fear doing headstand/handstand. Not even 10 minutes in the class .We were ask to do headstandor elbow stand I fractured my vertebrae on my neck. I felt the crack and heard the crack . I stop doing the class straight away and try to move my whole head slowly. Its slowly building the pain as time goes by . I went home , did not sleep well . I cant toss or turn . I cant even lift my own head to reposition.Its painful , its heavy .Im in agony.. Next day 29 July My pain is only in my neck from C5 below and T4 up somewhere those level .. I can feel the stiffness in me. I cant do a deep breathing .It stops me from inhaling too much air and its painful. I went to see GP and he did an Xray scan he didnt find anything then he ask for a Ct scan on my cervical thoracic area.. Result : There is a bony fragment posterior to the C7/T1 disc.measuring 3mm in maximum height x1.7mm in maximal depth and around 1.2mm in width. There is an impression of a reciprocal defect in the posteroinferior border of C7.There is a minor soft tissue prominence in this region.
There is a moderate disc herniation across a broad base at the posterior aspect of C6/7.This indents the spinal cord maximal to the right of midline..No other abnormalitty of bone can be seen. Alignment is normal with no evidence of instability.
My question is can I go back to pole dancing still ? Or is there a chance this will heal or go away ?
Marge,
Once you have a fracture, the first concern is proper healing of the injury. Your job concern are right but those things cannot be ascertained right now. When you become better, a revaluation at a later date could be done by your treating doctor.
All the best.
All the best.
EXAM:
Cervical spine two views.
Right shoulder two views.
DATE/TIME:
02/15/2017, 16:56
INDICATION:
Degenerative disc disease. Shoulder pain.
COMPARISON:
None.
TECHNIQUE:
Two views of the cervical spine are obtained.
Two views of the right shoulder are obtained.
FINDINGS:
CERVICAL SPINE:
The cervical vertebral bodies are seen to the C6-C7 level on the lateral
view. The cervical vertebral bodies maintain a normal height. There is mild
reversal of the normal cervical lordosis. Intervertebral disc space
narrowing is present from C5-C7 with anterior endplate spurring. Multilevel
facet arthropathy is identified. An acute fracture or subluxation is not
seen. The prevertebral soft tissues are unremarkable.
RIGHT SHOULDER:
There is no evidence of an acute fracture or dislocation. The glenohumeral
joint spacing is preserved. Mild degenerative changes of the right
acromioclavicular joint is identified. The visualized soft tissues are
unremarkable.
IMPRESSION:
1. Degenerative changes involve the cervical spine which is greatest from
C5-C7.
2. No acute osseous abnormality involving the right shoulder joint. Mild
degenerative changes of the right AC joint is present.
I was told arthritis but not noted in the report.
Can I correct this condition?
Thank you
Kevin Johnson
Degenerative changes mean arthritic changes. No! You cannot undo them but could live without symptoms with treatment.
Take care