Degenerative changes of the cervical spine

Degenerative changes of the cervical spine are chronic wear-and-tear alterations of the anatomical structures of the cervical region of the spine. These mainly involve the intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, and vertebral bodies, and are associated with aging and mechanical stress. They can lead to neck pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and, in some cases, neurological symptoms due to compression of neural structures.