What tests should be done to see cervical spondylosis

Nowadays, many young office workers are prone to cervical spondylosis, which is mainly caused by long-term computer work and incorrect sitting posture. Therefore, we should take some time to walk around properly when we are at work, so as to prevent the occurrence of cervical spondylosis. When examining cervical spondylosis, we should use CT and X-rays to check whether the shape of the cervical spine has changed suddenly. You can read the article for the specific examination methods.

Diagnosis of cervical spondylosis requires the patient's clinical symptoms, physical examination and imaging examination. Although there are many auxiliary examination methods available, detailed face-to-face consultation and careful physical examination by a doctor are still indispensable.

Commonly used auxiliary examinations include: X-ray, CT and MRI of the cervical spine.

Cervical spine X-rays include AP and lateral views, which are mainly used to check whether there are any abnormalities in the overall physiological curvature of the cervical spine, whether there is bone hyperplasia and ligament calcification in the front and back. X-rays of the cervical spine in special positions, such as the bilateral oblique view, can determine whether there is any stenosis in the nerve root foramen. X-rays are usually used for initial screening.

Bi-oblique X-ray of cervical spine

Magnetic resonance imaging is also a commonly used method for examining the cervical spine. Today's MRI images are becoming clearer and clearer, and can provide doctors with a lot of accurate information. Magnetic resonance imaging can be used to determine whether the patient has bone hyperplasia and compression. If there is compression, it depends on whether it is the nerves or the spinal cord that are being compressed.

MRI of the cervical spine

If the patient cannot undergo an MRI because of an IUD, pacemaker, or claustrophobia, the next best option is a CT scan of the cervical spine. CT has a special advantage in determining whether the cervical spine has ossification (ossification means that the soft tissue has become boney, such as ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament). Sometimes, in order to develop a surgical plan, the patient may need both an MRI and a CT scan.

Cervical spine CT

In order to diagnose cervical spondylosis, patients sometimes need to undergo some electromyography and evoked potential examinations. This is a positioning test that can determine which nerve root is compressed. It is a test that is often relied upon in the diagnosis of orthopedic diseases.