STM Journals Peer-reviewed research from Consortium e-Learning Network

Research and Reviews: A Journal of Pharmacology Review Article

Understanding the Cervical Spine Disorder: A Cross-sectional Survey Study

  1. Poonam Department of Pharmacy, Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo, Dist. Bathinda
  2. Nchang Fondah Awamofor Department of Pharmacy, Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo, Dist. Bathinda

Abstract

Cervical spine disorders encompass a spectrum of conditions including degenerative spondylosis, disc herniation, traumatic injuries, and myelopathy that impair quality of life through chronic pain, neurological deficits, and functional limitations. Globally, neck pain affects over 200 million individuals, with an age-standardized prevalence of 2666 per 100000 population and an incidence of 816 per 100000 person-years, contributing to significant years lived with disability (YLDs). Economic analyses estimate annual direct healthcare costs exceeding $30 billion and indirect costs from lost productivity and disability amounting to over $60 billion worldwide. Rising trends correlate with aging demographics, sedentary occupations, and ―tech-neck‖ from prolonged device use, particularly among individuals aged 45–54 and women, who exhibit a 20% higher burden. This review synthesizes current knowledge on epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, conservative and surgical management strategies, and preventive measures. It integrates survey-based insights from a cohort of 25 pharmacy students highlighting awareness gaps, symptom prevalence, and health-seeking behaviors and underscores the pivotal role of pharmacists in multidisciplinary care. Finally, we provide evidence-based recommendations for education, research, and policy to mitigate the growing impact of cervical spine disorders.

Keywords

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