Uncodiscarthrosis, or uncocervicarthrosis, is a bone pathology defined by anatomical degenerative lesions of the lower cervical vertebrae (C3 to C7) related to their natural wear. Biological age is the main and unavoidable cause of uncodiscarthrosis, which combines two main mechanisms: wear of the cervical discs and degenerative lesions of the uncus, kinds of small lateral hooks specific to these vertebrae. Noncodiscarthrosis affects an average of 25% of those under 40 and 60% of those over 60.

Definition of uncodiscarthrosis

Uncodiscarthrosis, or uncocervicarthrosis, is a bone pathology defined by anatomical degenerative lesions of the lower cervical vertebrae (C3 to C7) related to their natural wear.

These vertebrae have the particularity of presenting kinds of lateral hooks, called uncus – also called unciform processes, semilunar processes or unciform processes. These hooks unite the vertebrae together like a puzzle. The uncus participate in the stabilization of the cervical spine by limiting lateral inclination and posterior translation and by serving as guides for flexion-extension movements.

Types d’uncodiscarthroses

Uncodiscarthrosis only presents in one type.

Causes of uncodiscarthrosis

Biological age is the main and unavoidable cause of uncodiscarthrosis, which combines two main mechanisms:

• Cervical discarthrosis, or cervicarthrosis, defined by the irremediable wear and tear of the discs located between the cervical vertebrae. With age, the discs become dehydrated, fragment, crack, sag, decrease in height and lead to disc protrusions (regular bulges that extend over the entire circumference of the disc) or herniated discs (prominences protruding from the disc). normal circumference in one direction);
• Degenerative lesions of the uncus, or “arthritis”: lesions of a arthritis are linked to cracks in the fibrous ring of the disc and present clinical and radiological characteristics of joint degeneration.

Diagnostic de l’uncodiscarthrosis

The diagnosis of uncodiscarthrosis is made using an X-ray of the cervical spine which shows signs of wear between the vertebrae. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervix also allows the analysis of the condition of the intervertebral discs and the uncus. Electromyography can also be used to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them.

People affected by uncodiscarthrosis

Noncodiscarthrosis affects an average of 25% of those under 40 and 60% of those over 60.

Factors favoring uncodiscarthrosis

There are some factors that can promote early DK:

• A genetic predisposition;
• Congenital anomalies of the spine;
• Trauma (whiplash);
• Repetitive strain injuries;
• Lack of physical activity;
• Bad postures and incorrect movements.

Neck pain and stiffness

Noncodiscarthrosis can present with neck pain associated with stiff neck.

Limited movements

Range of motion may be limited to tilt or rotation by uncodiscarthrosis. Frequent contractures in the paravertebral muscles are observed.

Neuralgic pains

Vertebrae with kodiscarthrosis can shift and pinch one of the roots of a nerve. The appearance of osteophytes, bony growths that develop around the damaged uncus, can also cause compression of a nerve. The pain is then intense and radiates to the arms, back and shoulders.

Dizziness

Uncodiscarthrosis can also be responsible for headaches and dizziness when an artery becomes compressed by osteophytes.

Other symptoms

• Tingling;
• Numbness.

Treatment of uncodiscarthrosis is primarily aimed at reducing its progression and relieving pain. It is based on:

• Physiotherapy by maintaining and improving cervical mobility, combined with advice on back hygiene in order to limit the stresses applied to the spine;
• Analgesic, anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant drugs, which can help reduce pain;
• Injections of corticosteroids and local anesthetics may be considered for debilitating pain.

Surgery, performed as a last resort, allows, among other things, to remove the osteophytes generating the symptoms or to loosen a nerve.

If the uncodiscarthrosis is irreversible, there are on the other hand ways to slow down its progression:

• Perform flexibility and muscle strengthening exercises;
• Stay hydrated;
• Eliminate aggravating factors such as vibrations or recurring shocks.