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Cervical spondylosis

Also called: Neck arthritis · Age-related neck change

Cervical spondylosis is the medical name for age-related wear in the neck's joints and discs. It is nearly universal on X-rays after 50 — and often painless. When it does cause symptoms, physiotherapy is the first-line treatment for pain and stiffness.

Typical course: 6–10 sessions — your physio confirms your personal plan after the first assessment.

Common signs
  • Neck stiffness and aching, often worse in the morning
  • Pain that can radiate to the shoulder blade or arm
  • Occasional tingling in the hands
  • Grinding sensation on neck movement
Common causes
  • Normal age-related change in discs and joints
  • Accelerated by years of sustained poor posture
  • Previous neck injury
How physiotherapy helps
  • Mobility work for stiff joints and tight muscles
  • Strengthening the deep neck and postural muscles
  • Posture and workstation coaching
  • Honest education — X-ray 'wear' is normal and does not doom you to pain
See a doctor first if…
  • Progressive clumsiness of hands or difficulty walking
  • Weakness in the arms or legs
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control — emergency

Get a personalised assessment

A guide can explain — only an assessment can tell you what applies to you. Every physio on PhysioDekho is credential-verified.

Find a physiotherapist near you

This guide is general education, not medical advice, and is no substitute for assessment by a qualified professional. If any warning sign above applies to you, contact a doctor before starting physiotherapy. Full medical disclaimer.