Cervical spondylosis is a catch-all term that refers to changes occurring in the discs, joints, and bones located in the neck. It is also referred to as cervical osteoarthritis. The osteoarthritis develops as a result of aging, injury, or disease.
The spine has three major segments – cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back). Spinal osteoarthritis refers to osteoarthritis occurring anywhere along the spine. No matter where osteoarthritis occurs, the condition can cause inflammation of the spinal facet joints, bone spurs, and pain.