Cervical spondylosis is usually suspected if there are typical symptoms of neck pain and stiffness. It will also be considered as a cause of radiating arm pain, problems with the use of the hands or difficulty walking.
Various tests, which are outlined below, can be used to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.
Physical examination
Cervical spondylosis can limit the range of movement in your neck. Your GP may ask you to try and rotate your head from side to side and tilt your head towards your shoulders.
Your GP may also test your reflexes in your hands and feet and check you have full sensation in all your limbs. Problems with your reflexes or a lack of sensation could indicate nerve damage.
Your GP may also study how you walk, as cervical myelopathy can often affect walking and balance.
X-ray
An X-ray may show characteristic features of spondylosis, such as the presence of osteophytes (lumps of extra bone).
However, the spinal cord and nerve roots cannot be seen on an X-ray, and X-rays cannot show a herniated disc.
MRI scans
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are arranged if your radiating arm pain is severe and not settling, or if your doctor is concerned about cervical myelopathy.
The spinal cord and nerve roots can be seen on an MRI scan, which can also show a herniated disc.
Myelogram
An X-ray dye is injected inside your spine to make the spinal cord and nerve roots more visible during an X-ray or CT scan. This procedure is known as a myelogram.
It is an invasive test (involves going into the body) and requires admission to hospital as a day case. It is only done if an MRI scan is not possible or, occasionally, after an MRI scan when a specialist requires additional information if surgery is being considered.
