CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS DIAGNOSIS |
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Cervical spondylosis is often suspected
based on the symptoms and their history. Careful neurological
examination can help determine which nerve roots are involved, based
on the location of the pain and numbness, and the pattern of
weakness and changes in reflex responses. To confirm the suspected
diagnosis, and to rule out other possibilities, imaging tests are
ordered. The first test is an x ray. X rays reveal the presence of
osteophytes, stenosis, constricted space between the vertebrae, and
misalignment in the cervical spine--in short, an x ray confirms that
a person has cervical spondylosis. To demonstrate that the condition
is causing the symptoms, more details are needed. Other imaging
tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed
tomography myelography, help assess effects of cervical spondylosis
on associated nerve tissue and blood vessels.
An MRI may be preferred, because it is a noninvasive procedure and
does not require injecting a contrast medium as does computed
tomography myelography. MRIs also have greater sensitivity for
detecting disk problems and spinal cord involvement, and they test
allows the physician to create permit creating images of a larger
area from various angles. However, these images may not show enough
detail about the vertebrae themselves. Computed tomography
myelography yields a superior image of the bones involved in
cervical spondylosis. Added benefits include that it takes less time
to perform and tends to be less expensive than an MRI. A good
diagnosis may be reached with either a computed tomography
myelography or an MRI, but sometimes complementary information from
both tests is necessary. Nerve conduction velocity, electromyogram
(EMG), and/or somatosensory evoked potential testing may help to
confirm which nerve roots are involved. |
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| CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS RELATED ITEMS |
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