Cervical spondylosis is the medical term for osteoarthritis of the neck. In this disorder, the cervical vertebrae thicken, bony outgrowths develop on the vertebrae, and the joints between the vertebra may become inflamed.
These changes cause pressure on nerves or blood vessels in the neck, leading to symptoms such as neck pain and stiffness; headaches; pain that travels from the shoulders to the hands; numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands; and sometimes dizziness.
In severe cases, the spinal cord may be significantly compressed, which may cause weakness in the legs or sometimes incontinence.
Treatment is usually with medication and special exercises or physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be advised.