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A Study on Effectiveness of Homoeopathic Medicines in the management of

cervical spondylosis presenting with cervical radiculopathy

Dr. Smitha Madhavan

Introduction
Pain in neck and its associated complication is a regular feature to any orthopedic clinic 4. Neck
pain is commonly arises from diseases of the cervical spine and soft tissues of the neck .5.
Degenerative changes of the cervical spine are one among the important causes of neck pain 4.
Key in 1838 probably gave the first description of a spondylotic bar.23

“SPONDYLO” is a Greek word meaning vertebra and spondylosis generally mean changes in
the vertebral joint characterized by increasing degeneration of the intervertebral disc with
subsequent changes in the bones and soft tissues12. About 50% of people over age 50 experience
neck pain and stiffness due to cervical spondylosis. Of these people, 25- 40% has at least one
episode of cervical radiculopathy.12 Degenerative changes develop in the vertebral column with
advancing age16. So these changes are found almost universally in some degree in persons over
50 years of age14.

The cervical spine is particularly susceptible to degenerative problems because of its large range
of motion and its somewhat complex anatomy9. 1t is also likely that, subjects who develop
cervical spondylosis have relatively narrower spinal canals16.
Neck pain arising from the cervical spine is typically precipitated by neck movements and may
be accompanied by focal spine tenderness and limitation of motion. Cervical spine trauma, disk
disease, or spondylosis may be asymptomatic or painful and can produce a myelopathy,
radiculopathy, or both. The nerve roots most commonly affected are C7 and C6. 5 Pain may be
neurogenic when the spinal cord or nerve roots are compressed.7It is the most common cause of
spinal cord dysfunction in patients older than 55 years.19

Conservative treatment results in resolution of symptoms in great majority of patients with

radiculopathy, but a few require surgery in the form of foraminotomy or disc excision.15

As radiculopathy is found to be a distressing disease and no scientific study and statistical

analysis is known to be conducted with Homoeopathic medicines for the management of this
disease. So I decided to take over a research study on the topic “Effectiveness of Homoeopathic
medicines in the management of cervical spondylosis presenting with radiculopathy” .

Aim
To study the effectiveness of Homoeopathic medicines in the management of cervical
spondylosis presenting with radiculopathy.

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Clinical anatomy
There are seven cervical vertebrae and eight cervical spinal nerves. Among these vertebrae 3 rd,
4th, 5th and 6th are typical vertebrae, first and second are distinctively unique and the 7th is
transitory between the cervical and thoracic vertebrae. All cervical vertebrae posses a
distinguishing feature, i.e. they posses a foramen in their transverse process, called the foramen
transversarium. The two important structures in anatomical relationship with cervical vertebrae
are cervical spinal nerves and vertebral artery. Vertebral artery passes through the foramina
transversarii of the upper 6 cervical vertebrae. Since there are 7 cervical vertebrae and 8 cervical
spinal nerves, the 7th cervical vertebra will have the 7th cervical nerve above and the 8th nerve
below.

Typical cervical vertebra has a rectangular body with concave superior surface which articulate
with the convex inferior surface of the vertebral body above it. The size of the vertebral body
increases in the lower vertebrae to support the additional weight of head, neck and upper
extremity on the spinal column. The pedicles arise from the body and project in a postero- lateral
fashion to join the neural arch. The vertebral foramen is therefore rectangular in shape in the
cervical region.

The articular processes are at the junction of the pedicles and the laminae. The laminae form the
posterolateral legs of the triangular vertebral foramen. They serve as the bony attachments for
the deep muscles of the neck and protect the underlying cervical spinal cord.

The spinous processes of the cervical vertebrae are most posterior and unite the laminae. Spinous
process is bifid in typical cervical vertebrae.
The spinous process and ligamentum nuchae (thick midline septum of connective tissue attaches
to the spinous process) are attachment sites for muscles of the back of neck.

Another important structure is the transverse process which possesses the foramen
transversarium. Posterior and anterior tubercles exist at the tip of transverse processes of C3 to
C6. They give attachments to muscles.

The first cervical vertebra is atlas. It lacks body and is composed of an anterior and posterior
arch with laterally projecting transverse process. Body of the atlas is the dense of second cervical
vertebra. The dense articulate with the posterior facet on the anterior arch of atlas and a
transverse ligament. This allows atlas to rotate around the dense in a horizontal plane.
The superior articulating facets of the atlas articulate with the condyles of the occipital bone.

Transverse ligaments attached to the tubercles of the atlas, and that articulate with the dense, this
prevents the dense from sliding posteriorly into the C1 vertebral foramen which contain the
spinal cord.

Posterior arch of atlas has two important physical markings,

1) Groove for the vertebral artery

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2) Attachment site for the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane (tough elastic membrane attaches
superiorly to the posterior margin of foramen magnum)
Second cervical or axis has a superior projecting process, the dense which serves as the body of
the overlying atlas.

Seventh cervical vertebra has a non-bifid spine which projects horizontally to be subcutaneous at
the base of the neck. It is called the vertebra prominence. The transverse process has a foramen
transversarium but it usually does not contain vertebral artery, but veins are present.
Cervical rib when they occur are most frequently found on the anterior aspect of the transverse
process of the C7 vertebra.1

The cervical disc has three parts, the cartilage end plate which adheres to the cancellous bone of
adjacent vertebral bodies, the central semisolid nucleus pulposus which is relatively
incompressible and inelastic, and the slightly elastic annulus fibrosus which surrounds and
retains it and which regulates and restricts movements of the spine.22 It is separated from the
vertebral body above and below by cartilaginous end plates. An important distinction from the
lumbar spine is that the spinal canal in the cervical area contains the spinal cord rather than the
lumbar nerve roots, so a reduction in the size of the spinal canal by spondylosis or a midline disc
herniation causes compression of the spinal cord, which results in significantly more dangerous
complications. 3

The cervical spine contains the joints of luck, which are not present elsewhere in the spine.
These joints , one on each side of the disc, can give rise to bony spurs or ridges( osteophytes), as
can the main facet joints (apophysial joints) and the edges of the vertebral bodies adjacent to the
inter- vertebral discs.3

The exiting nerve root on each side travels between these joints and can be compressed by
osteophytes extending in to the intervertebral foramen from any or all of these three sources or
from a posterolateral soft disc herniation. 3

Movements at the cervical spine:

The anatomical configuration of the cervical spine allows remarkable freedom of movements to
the neck in all axis and planes. The following four movements are taken as the principle
movements:
1) Flexion in sagittal plane
2) Extension in sagittal plane
3) Lateral flexion to right and left in frontal plane
4) Rotation to right and left in transverse plane.

The major part of mobility to the cervical spine occurs between the occiput, atlas and axis
vertebrae. The greatest movement of cervical spine occurs between the atlas and axis. Almost 50
% of the movement of total rotation occurs at these joints, the rest 50% is contributed by the
remaining cervical vertebrae. The movements of lateral flexion and rotation never occur as
isolated movements like flexion and extension. Both these movements are interrelated with the
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participation of all the inter-vertebral joints below the level of C2. Flexion stretches both the
cervical and the thoracic extend of the dura matter. It also compresses the anterior portion of the
disc, resulting in opening of the inter-vertebral foramina, whereas extension results in their
narrowing. 4

The movements of lateral flexion and rotation bring about the closure of foramina in the same
side of lateral flexion or rotation, at the same time resulting in opening of the foramina on the
opposite side. The region between C4 and C6 interspaces is most mobile during the movements
of flexion and extension. This is also the region of maximum stress. Therefore, it is the most
susceptible site for wear and tear (cervical spondylosis). 4

Movements of the neck and upper extremity and their relative level of segmental
association 4
Movement Level of association
Neck rotation C1
Shoulder shrugging C2,C3,C4
Shoulder abduction and external rotation C5
Elbow flexion and wrist extension
Wrist flexion and elbow extension C6
Wrist ulnar deviation, thumb motion C7
Finger abduction and adduction C8
T1

Level of nerve root lesion and cutaneous analgesia 4

Nerve root Analgesia
C4 Trapezial ridge to the tip of shoulder
C5 Upper scapula and deltoid, lateral brachial region and
radial aspect of forearm
C6 Upper scapular, Lateral brachial region, radio-volar aspect
of forearm and tips of the thumb and index finger
C7 Mid-scapular, posterior brachial region, dorsum of
forearm, hand and index, middle and ring finger.
Ulno-volar aspect of forearm and ulnar border of ring and
C8 little fingers.

Tendon jerks and associated nerves 4

Tendon-jerk Nerve-root
Biceps C5 and C6
Brachio-radialis C5 and C6
Triceps C7 and C8

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Type of lesion and the symptoms 4

Lesion Symptoms

1. Compression of the nerve trunk Paraesthesia without pain

2. Compression of the dural sleeve
3. Disc lesion (cervical, thoracic) Pain in the dermatomal distribution
Neck flexion elicits pain (stretches
the cervical and thoracic extends of
4. Lesion of the thoracic spine the dura matter)
5. Localized cervical facet joint Painful scapular approximation
restriction Quadrant test positive on the
6. Degenerative changes involving involved site.
facet joints Unilateral scapular and arm pain.
Capsular pattern of movements.
Limitation of movements is mild in
flexion, moderate in lateral flexion
and severe in extension. Pain and
stiffness in neck. Bilateral pain in the
arms. Headache radiating from
7. Compression of the spinal cord occiput to frontal area.
Presence of spasticity, in
coordination and plantar extensor
response.

CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS

Definition
Cervical spondylosis refers to a degenerative process of the cervical spine producing narrowing
of the spinal canal and neural foramina, producing compression of the spinal cord and nerve
roots, respectively. 9

Incidence and prevalence

Transient episodes of acute neck pain and stiffness occur in 40 – 50 % of all adults, with an
increasing incidence in those over the age of 45 years.15 By age 50, 25-50% of people develop
cervical spondylosis; by 75 years of age, it is seen in at least 70% of people.12 Indeed, they are
found almost universally in some degree in persons over 50 years of age.
Symptoms of cervical spondylosis may appear in those as young as 30 years and are most
commonly in those aged 40-60 years. Radiological spondylotic changes increase with patient
age. On the basis of radio logic findings, 90% of men older than 50 years and 90% of women
older than 60 years have evidence of degenerative changes in cervical spondylosis.19

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Sex:
Both sexes are affected equally. Cervical spondylosis usually starts earlier in men than in
women.19

Aetiology
1. Wear and tear on joints that accompanies aging
(osteoarthritis )
2. Arthritis (inflammation of joint)
3. Trauma such as automobile accidents with whiplash injury, athletic injuries, sudden jerks on
arms and falls. 8
Whiplash injury is due to trauma (usually automobile accidents) causing cervical
musculoligamental sprain or strain due to hyperflexion or hyperextension.

There are several predisposing factors, which may cause acceleration of these changes.
1. Occupations requiring repetitive motion of the cervical spine.
2. Previous injury with fracture or disc prolapses
3. Segmentation defects like hemivertebra or fused vertebrae. 12
4. There may be a hereditary predisposition to intervertebral disc disease.18
5. Fluorosis may play an important part in the development of ossified posterior longitudinal
ligament in India.18

Pathogenesis:
From skeletal maturity to the age of 30 years, few morphological changes occur in the cervical
spine. Thereafter, the process of normal aging in the cervical spine contributes to and is difficult
to differentiate from pathophysiologic changes.18
Disc degeneration causes cervical spondylosis. As discs age, they fragment, desiccate and
collapse. Initially, this starts in the nucleus pulposus, resulting in the central annular lamellae
buckling inward while the external concentric bands of the annulus fibrosis bulge outward. This
results in increased mechanical stress at the cartilaginous end plates at the vertebral body lip.12
Subperiosteal bone formation occurs next, forming osteophytic bars that extend along the ventral
aspect of the spinal canal. In some patients, these bars encroach on neural tissue.12
Uncinate process hypertrophy also occurs, often encroaching upon the ventrolateral portion of
the intervertebral foramina. Nerve root irritation also may occur as intervertebral disc
proteoglycans degrade. Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), a condition
often seen in certain Asian populations, can occur with cervical spondylosis and can be an
additional contributing source of severe anterior cord compression. 12
Cervical spondylotic myelopathy occurs as a result of three important pathophysiologic factors:
static-mechanical, dynamic-mechanical, and spinal cord ischemia. As ventral osteophytes
develop, the cervical cord space becomes narrowed. Thus, patients with congenitally narrowed
spinal canals (10-13 mm) are predisposed to developing cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Age-
related hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum and thickening of bone may result in further
narrowing of the cord space. Additionally, degenerative kyphosis and subluxation are fairly
common findings that may further contribute to cord compression in patients with cervical
spondylotic myelopathy.
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Dynamic factors may be important in that, normal flexion and extension of the cord may
aggravate spinal cord damage, initiated by static compression of the cord. During flexion, the
spinal cord lengthens, which stretches it over ventral osteophytic bars. During extension, the
ligamentum flavum may buckle into the cord, pinching the cord between the ligaments and
anterior osteophytes.12
Spinal cord ischemia probably also is involved in cervical spondylotic myelopathy.
Histopathologic changes that are observed in cervical spondylotic myelopathy frequently involve
gray matter with minimal white matter involvement (a pattern consistent with ischemic insult).
Ischemia probably occurs at the level of impaired microcirculation.
More recently, shearing forces have been theorized to be important in the pathophysiology of
cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Narrowing of the spinal canal and abnormal or excessive
motion may result in shear forces that cause axonal injury in the cervical cord, where changes
seen in the cord may actually be a form of stretch injury. 12

Pathology
The primary event is a progressive decrease in the degree of hydration resulting in loss of disc
height, disc fibrosis and annular weakening.12 Glyco-proteins diminish in size and number and
their ability to retain water diminishes.18 The extra mobility between adjacent vertebral areas
probably results in osteophyte formation. Though osteophyte formation may be the body’s
attempt to stabilize the joints, their growth can result in narrowing of the spinal canal and cord
compression.12

The important pathological changes are:

1. Bony ridges (osteophytes) develop on the vertebral bodies adjacent to the areas of motion at
the intervertebral discs.
2. The facets undergo degeneration and hypertrophy.
3. The ligamentum flavum undergoes hypertrophy and buckling.9
In addition to bony changes soft tissue changes develop. The ligamenta flava lose their elasticity
and tend to buckle forwards when the cervical spine is extended. This leads to compression of
the posterior aspect of cord. In the intervertebral foramina, fibrosis of the dural sheath
contributes to further pressure on the spinal nerves and their roots. Pressure on the spinal arteries
during their course in the bony structures leads to secondary vascular changes which cause their
occlusion and ischemic damage to the cord and lower brain stem.16

Clinical features
Symptoms of cervical spondylosis may appear in those as young as 30 years and are most
commonly in those aged 40-60 years.19 The clinical presentation may vary widely from that of a
cervical radiculopathy , myelopathy or both.16 Progressive neck pain is a key indication of
cervical spondylosis.10

Cervical spondylotic radiculopathy may develop acutely or more gradually due to osteophytic
encroachment of the intervertebral foramina.15 When evaluating patients with suspected cervical
radiculopathy it is important to consider the following: (1) overlap in function between adjacent
nerve roots is common, (2) the anatomic pattern of pain is the most variable of the clinical
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features, and (3) the distribution of symptoms and signs may be evident in only part of the
injured nerve root territory.5
Patients with neck pain may relate most of the symptoms to a traumatic episode but more often,
symptoms develop gradually7. Initial symptoms consist of paraesthesia and pain in the
distribution of cervical dermatomes, pain being felt most frequently over the shoulder, arm,
scapular region, forearm and hands. Movements of the neck, travel and adoption of certain
postures aggravate the pain, which may be intermittent or even constant. Sensory loss to pin
prick may be demonstrable.16 In addition, the patient has vague symptoms, such as blurred
vision, tinnitus, or dysphagia. Often the discomfort is worse in the morning. There may often be
an area of point tenderness in the surrounding musculature called a trigger point.7

Important symptoms and signs are:

1. Neck pain and stiffness may be worse with upright activity.
2. Numbness and weakness in the arms, hands and fingers, and trouble walking due to weakness
in the legs.
3. Feel or hear grinding or popping in the neck when you move.
4. Muscle spasms or headaches may originate in the neck.
The condition can make you feel irritable and fatigued, disturb your sleep and impair your ability
to work.10 Pain caused by pressure upon the nerve in the cervical region follows a clearly defined
course which depends upon the particular nerve involved, and it is usually severe.14
In the assessment of sensory loss it should be remembered that the middle or long finger,
representing the central axis of the limb, is innervated mainly by the seventh cervical nerve. The
radial half of the hand is innervated by the proximal roots of brachial plexus( C5, C6) whereas
the ulnar half is innervated from the more distal roots( C8, T1).14
Motor phenomena consist of weakness and wasting of the deltoid, triceps, and biceps or forearm
muscles. Wasting of small muscles of the hand is rare in pure cervical spondylosis. Involvement
of the C5 segment gives rise to inversion of supinator jerk. Fasciculation may be seen over the
affected muscle. Tendon reflexes are diminished. The lesion may be unilateral or asymmetrically
bilateral.16
On examination, patient usually exhibit restriction of neck movement, especially in extension.
Downward head compression by the examiner as well as flexing the neck to the side of the
involvement usually aggravates the pain. Nerve root compression in the upper cervical spine is
unusual. Compression of C2 causes occipital neuralgia, but if C3and C4 is compressed, it usually
causes non specific neck and shoulder pain without any muscle weakness. Compression of the
C5 root leads to shoulder and deltoid pain with weakness in the deltoid muscle. The most
common root compression syndromes are those involving the sixth and seventh cervical roots.
With C6 root compression, the pain is in the radicular distribution down the arm, distal to the
elbow, with paraesthesias or sensory loss over the thumb and index finger. Biceps weakness
(flexion of elbow) as well as weakness in extension of the wrist, is present and diminution of the
biceps and brachioradialis reflex may be present. With C7 root compression, the pain radiate
down the back of the arm distal to the elbow. Paraesthesias in the middle finger that also involve
the index finger or ring finger or both may be present. Because of the overlapping of the C6 and
C8 root the sensory loss may be minimal or absent. Triceps muscle weakness (extension of the
elbow) as well as weakness in flexion of the wrist is a hallmark of this root compression. Eighth
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nerve root compression causes pain down the arm as well as sensory changes that involve the
ulnar side of the hand but they usually present with intrinsic hand muscle weakness.3

Findings at physical examination may include the following:

1. Typically, the patient exhibits a head tilt away from the side of injury and holds his or her
neck stiffly.13
2. Increased pain with lateral bending away from the affected side can cause increased
displacement of a disk herniation upon a nerve root, while ipsilateral pain would suggest an
impingement of a nerve root at the site of the neural foramen.13
3. Spurling sign: Radicular pain is exacerbated by extension and lateral bending of the neck
toward the side of the lesion, which results in further foraminal compromise. 19
4. Lhermitte sign: This generalized electrical shock sensation is associated with neck extension.
19

5. Hoffman sign: Reflex contraction of the thumb and index finger occurs in response to nipping
of the middle finger. This sign is evidence of an upper motor neuron lesion. A Hoffman sign may
be insignificant if present bilaterally19.
6. Many patients report a reduction in their radicular symptoms by abducting their shoulder and
placing their hand behind their head. This is thought to occur by decreasing tension at the nerve
root.13
On palpation, tenderness usually is noted along the cervical paraspinals and usually is more
pronounced along the ipsilateral side of the affected nerve root. Muscle tenderness may be
present along muscles where the symptoms are referred (eg, medial scapula, proximal arm,
lateral epicondyle). Associated hypertonicity or spasm on palpation in these painful muscles may
occur.3
Manual muscle testing is an important aspect of determining a nerve root level on physical
examination. Perform manual muscle testing to detect subtle weakness in a myotomal
distribution.Weakness of shoulder abduction suggests a C5 radiculopathy. Elbow flexion and
wrist extension weakness would occur with C6 radiculopathies. Weakness of elbow extension
and wrist flexion would occur with a C7 radiculopathy, and weakness of thumb extension and
ulnar deviation of the wrist would be seen in C8 radiculopathies.13

On sensory examination, a dermatomal decrease or loss of sensation should be noted in patients

with clear-cut radiculopathy. In addition, patients with radiculopathy may have hyperesthesia to
light touch and pin prick examination. However, the sensory examination can be quite subjective
since it requires patient response.13

Deep tendon reflexes, or more properly muscle stretch reflexes, since the reflex occurs after a
muscle stretch is obtained (most commonly by tapping the distal tendon of a muscle), are helpful
in the evaluation of patients presenting with limb symptoms suggestive of a radiculopathy. The
examiner must position the limb properly when obtaining these reflexes and the patient needs to
be as relaxed as possible. Any grade of reflex can be normal, so it is the asymmetry of reflexes,
which is most helpful.The biceps brachii reflex is obtained by tapping the distal tendon in the
antecubital fossa. This reflex occurs at the C5-6 level. The brachioradialis is another C5-6 reflex
that can be obtained by tapping the radial aspect of the wrist. The triceps reflex can be obtained
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by tapping the distal tendon at the posterior aspect of the elbow with the elbow relaxed at about
90° of flexion. This tests the C7-8 nerve roots. The pronator reflex can be helpful in
differentiating C6 and C7 nerve root problems. If it is abnormal in conjunction with an abnormal
triceps reflex, then the level of involvement is more likely to be C7. This reflex is performed by
tapping the volar aspect of the distal radius with the forearm in a neutral position and the elbow
flexed. This results in a stretch of the pronator teres resulting in a reflex pronation. 13

Myelopathy has been classified in various ways and depends on the involvement of
the lateral or medial cord or vascular involvement. The signs may be a mixture of upper motor
neuron signs in the lower limbs and lower motor neuron signs in the upper limbs and may
simulate MND or syringomyelia. Occasionally the presentation may be that of Brown-Sequard
syndrome12
Pain and stiffness in neck with a gritty feeling in the tip of fingers. Patients will
complain of stiffness and loss of dexterity , with unsteadiness of gait. Neck pain may not be a
major feature.2 Bladder involvement is unusual. Combination of radicular and cord symptoms
are found in radiculomyelopathy. Vertebro basilar insufficiency due to spondylitic compression
of the vertebral artery is uncommon, though popularly diagnosed.12
In patients that demonstrate concern about possible myelopathy, lower extremity
reflexes and Hoffman and Babinski reflexes also should be assessed. Diffuse hyperreflexia
and/or positive Hoffman and abnormal Babinski reflexes would indicate that the patient has a
cervical myelopathy.13

Diagnosis
Cervical spondylosis has to be suspected in all cases presenting with cervical cord or root
symptoms in persons above the age of 40.13
1. History taking and clinical examination
2. Imaging Studies: 13
In patients with traumatic injuries, lateral, antero-posterior, and oblique views should be ordered
in plain radiographs. An open-mouth view also should be ordered to rule out injury to the
atlantoaxial joint. Visualizing all seven cervical vertebrae is very important. If C-7 can not be
properly seen, then a "swimmer's view" should be obtained for better visualization of the C7 and
T1 segments.

The atlantodens interval (ADI) is the distance from the posterior aspect of the anterior C1 arch
and the odontoid process. This should be less than 3 mm in the adult and less than 4 mm in
children. An increase in the ADI suggests atlantoaxial instability. Flexion and extension views
can be helpful in assessing spinal mobility and stability.

The clinician should be aware of the limitations of plain radiographs. Problems with both
specificity and sensitivity exist. Correlations of findings on plain radiographs and cadaver
dissections have found a 67% correlation between disc space narrowing and anatomic findings of
disk degeneration. However, radiographs identified only 57% of large posterior osteophytes and
only 32% of abnormalities of the apophyseal joints found on dissection.

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Computed tomography (CT) provides good visualization of bony elements and can be helpful in
the assessment of acute fractures. The accuracy of CT imaging of the cervical spine ranges from
72-91% in the diagnosis of disc herniation. The accuracy has approached 96% when combining
CT with myelography. The addition of contrast allows for the visualization of the subarachnoid
space and assessment of the spinal cord and nerve roots.
CT with myelography is thought to best assess and localize spinal cord compression and
underlying atrophy. This study also can determine the functional reserve of the spinal canal in
evaluating athletes with possible cervical stenosis. Because of the improved soft tissue
visualization provided by MRI, CT is being replaced by MRI for most cervical spine disorders.
MRI has become the method of choice for imaging the neck to detect significant pathology. MRI
can detect ligament and disk disruption, which cannot be demonstrated by other imaging studies.
The entire spinal cord, nerve roots, and axial skeleton can be visualized. This usually is
performed in axial and sagittal planes.
MRI has been found to be quite useful in evaluating the amount of cerebral spinal fluid
surrounding the cord in the evaluation of patients with cervical canal stenosis
Electrodiagnostic studies are important in identifying physiologic abnormalities of the nerve root
and in ruling out other neurological causes. Electromyography has been shown to be a useful
diagnostic test in the diagnosis of radiculopathy and has correlated well with findings on
myelography and surgery.13

Differential diagnosis 14
Distinction has to be made
1. From other causes of neck pain
2. From other causes of upper limb pain
Other causes of neck pain include prolapsed cervical disc, tuberculous or pyogenic infection,
tumours involving vertebral column and fibrositis.
Other causes of upper limb pain are as follows
1. Central lesions: tumours involving the spinal cord or its roots, cervical spondylolisthesis.
2. Plexus lesions: tumours at the thoracic inlet (pancoast), cervical rib, prolapsed inter vertebral
disc.
3. Shoulder lesions with radiating pain in the upper arm.
4. Skeletal lesions such as tumour, infection or Paget’s disease of a bone of the upper extremity.
5. Elbow lesions such as tennis elbow or arthritis.
6. Distal nerve lesions such as friction neuritis of the ulnar nerve at the elbow or compression of
the median nerve in the carpal tunnel .14

Expectations (prognosis)
The natural history of cervical spondylosis is not known. Although the course of the disease is
progressive and most patients have chronic symptoms, the large majority remains stable for
many years and do not require surgical intervention.21
Most patients with cervical spondylosis will have some chronic symptoms, but they respond to
non-operative interventions and do not require surgery.10
Surgical procedures including laminectomy and anterior discectomy, may arrest progression of
disability in myelopathy, but may not result in neurological improvement. 15
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COMPLICATIONS
Chronic neck pain
Progressive loss of muscle function or feeling
Permanent disability (occasional)
Inability to retain feces (fecal incontinence) or urine (urinary incontinence).

TREATMENT

There is a strong tendency for the symptoms of cervical spondylosis to subside spontaneously,
though they may persist for many weeks and the structural changes are clearly permanent.
Treatment is thus aimed towards assisting natural resolution of temporarily inflamed or
oedematous soft tissues11. Heat and massage are often soothing 20.

In the acute phase Initial treatment should be directed at reducing pain and inflammation.
Treatment can begin with NSAIDs, and reducing the forces compressing the nerve root by
relative rest, avoiding positions that increase arm and/or neck symptoms, manual traction, and if
necessary, mechanical traction.

In addition, a cervical collar also can be used for patient comfort and some support. A
cervical pillow at night can be helpful in maintaining the neck in a neutral position and limiting
head positions, which cause narrowing of the neuroforamen. Manual, and if necessary,
mechanical traction can be used to reduce radicular symptoms by decreasing foraminal
compression and intradiscal pressures. Modalities, such as electrical stimulation, also have been
found helpful in uncontrolled studies.

Cervical epidural steroids have been used in patients who have not responded to medications.
Traction and a well-designed physical therapy programme, when properly performed by
experienced physicians under fluoroscopic guidance, a significant number of patients respond
when other treatments have not helped. Selective nerve root blocks can be helpful in patients
with electrodiagnostically demonstrated single root lesions.

Acupuncture has been used on radicular pain with some success. This can be considered if pain
control is not achieved with physical therapy and medications or in conjunction with these
treatments. In addition, acupuncture can be tried instead of cervical epidural injection in patients
who are hesitant or wish not to proceed with this procedure.

Once pain and inflammation are controlled, then various soft tissue mobilization techniques can
be helpful to stretch the noncontractile elements of soft tissues. Instruct patients on proper
stretching techniques, which they can complete 1-2 times per day. Gentle prolonged stretching is
recommended. Stretching is best completed after a warm-up activity such as using an exercise

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bike or brisk walking. . All exercises should be performed without pain, although some degree of
postexercise soreness can be expected.

Patients should be encouraged to maintain their level of cardiovascular fitness as much as

possible throughout the rehabilitation process. The patient should be told that these exercises
(stretches and strengthening) should be continued indefinitely with the hope of preventing
recurrences. 13
Therapeutic plan is drawn which could include any or a combination of the following.4

1. Physical agents and massage;

2. Exercises;

3. Cervical traction;

4. Manipulation;

5. Cervical collar,

6. Postural and ergonomic advice.

Multi-centre trial has shown better relief of the symptoms with the combination therapy than
with single modality.

A. Physical agents and massage

Various physical agents are routinely used mainly to:

(i) Control inflammation;

(ii) Control pain and muscle spasm;

(iii) Control stiffness of soft tissues and joints;

(iv) Assist mobility;

(v) Increase blood supply and to relieve ischemia.

Initial relaxation is achieved by:

(a) Superficial thermotherapy.

(b) Pain reducing procedures of cryotherapy.

(c) Massage

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1. Exercises
Exercises play a decisive role in the management of cervical dysfunction. For planning the
specific programme of exercise, it is important to understand the clinical significance of each
movement at the cervical spine.

There are basically five types of exercises which are commonly used either singly or in
combination.

The type and extent of exercise to be planned according to the patient’s needs.

Relaxed passive movements: This includes manipulation and mobilization - when the chief
aim is mobilization.

Strong isometrics are indicated when mobility is contraindicated but strength, endurance and
tone of the cervical muscles are to be maintained or improved.

Active assisted movements, when the basic objective is to improve the weak muscles without
exerting.

Active resisted exercises to strengthen the cervical muscles.

The effects of exercise are elongation of the tightened soft tissues to their normal range,
minimize the periarticular fibrous contractures, regain normal length of the muscles, increase
circulation to deeper neck tissues, improvement of the posture and functions of neck and provide
encouragement and an overall feeling of physical betterment.

2. Cervical traction

Cervical traction is a modality of choice for many cervical dysfunctions. It is applicable in a

wide range of problems from sprain to fractures and dislocations of the cervical vertebrae.

Types of tractions are continuous, static, intermittent and polyaxial.

Continuous traction is usually continued for 24 hours. Sustained small pull for long hours
induces relaxation of the muscle spasm and gradual vertebral separation. It relieves compression
on the nerve roots or the spinal cord. It reduces the fractures and dislocations of the vertebrae. It
offers immobilization.It may help the prolapsed disc to move back into its place.

Static traction is traction with a constant pull varying from 10 – 30 lbs is applied for 20 – 25
minutes. It is indicated in the presence of definite neurological signs including radiating pain, not
relieved by other conservative modes.
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Intermittent traction is traction with alternate phases of stretching (pull) and relaxation is the
popular mode of traction. It produces the effects of massage on the muscular, ligamentous and
capsular structures. It promotes circulation, reduces swelling thereby reducing inflammation,
spasm and pain.

Goodley invented a polyaxial system of cervical traction which exerts precise tractive force to a
particular segment.

Duration of traction varies as per the requirements of the underlying pathology. Continuous
traction may be needed for several weeks in cases of fractures, dislocations, prolapsed disc and
pressure on the nerve root. Static traction may be needed for 20 – 25 minutes once a day or on
alternate days. Intermittent traction is usually given for 15 – 20 minutes on alternate days.

The convenient position of applying overhead traction in sitting position is a common practice.
Traction in supine produces better relaxation, greater posterior inter-vertebral separation,
decreased muscle guarding and increased stability.

Traction should be applied in the position of greatest comfort. This position is detected by pre-
traction evaluation. This consists of applying gentle manual traction in various combinations of
flexion, rotation and lateral flexion, using passive physiological inter-vertebral movement testing
techniques.

Cervical rotation should never be given during traction. It produces extra-stretching of guy
ligament at the atlanto-axial level and is prone to produce traumatic inflammatory reaction and
increased symptoms.

Traction is contraindicated in the following conditions

1. Marked ligamentous instability immediately inferior to the specific traction level.

2. Malignancy involving cervical or thoracic spine.

3. Signs and symptoms of cervical cord involvement.

4. Rheumatoid arthritis with necrosis of the ligaments adjacent to the traction level.

4. Manipulation.

Reduction of the intra-articular displacement in cervical spondylosis by manipulation is very

effective, provided the spondylosis is not too advanced. It is always carried out during strong
traction.

The contraindications for manipulation:

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1. Evidence of impaired pyramidal function;

2. Root palsy: excluding minor paraesthesia;

3. Primary postero-lateral onset: where the symptoms appear in a reversed order, e.g.,
paraesthesia occurring first in the digits, followed by pain in the forearm, arm and then in the
scapular region;

4. Cervical movements provoking brachial pain: instead of scapular region the increased pain is
felt in the upper limb;

5. Long standing brachial pain – unilateral brachial pain of more than two month’s duration and

6. Never attempt manipulation without thorough knowledge and practice.

5. Cervical collar

The use of cervical collar nowadays is generally discouraged. It is advised for acute disc-lesions,
following surgery or reductions of fractures and dislocations. However, it may occasionally be
useful in mild cervical dysfunctions where temporary rest is needed, e.g., during strenuous
forward bending postures at work or during riding or driving automobiles etc. functions of
cervical collar are as follows,

(a) Rigid immobilization;

(b) Partial immobilization;

(c) Support and relaxation of muscles and soft tissues;

(d) Carrying out repeated isometric exercises,

(e) Correction of the deformity;

(f) Conventional soft wrap around neck using folded towel at night with correct height of the
pillow to maintain optimal neutral position of the neck in relation to shoulders is extremely
effective in common neck pains.

Proper fitting of the collar is necessary, e.g.; its fitting in flexion is advocated where separation
of facets and opening of the foramina is the aim.

6. Postural and ergonomic advice.

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Advice on the maintenance of posture of the neck in relation to the various body positions and
ergonomics plays a predominant role in the majority of patients with cervical pain. Faulty
posture also accelerates degenerative changes.

Physiologically and mechanically the ideal posture is straight neck with the chin tucked in.
Ergonomic advice is the single most important approach which can prevent recurrence of neck
pain. The mass education on correct ergonomic principles should be ideal to prevent common
neck pain.4

Surgery: 12

It is indicated when there is progressive cord dysfunction, in acute cord compression and in
persistent pain not responding to conservative measures and interfering with normal life.

Two surgical approaches, anterior and posterior, are available. Anterior approach is now used in
majority of cases because it is simple and allows early postoperative mobilization and shorter
hospitalization. A left sided approach avoids injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve

On occasions, such as ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament, it may require drilling of

the vertebral body (corpectomy) for adequate decompression. Visualization of the posterior
longitudinal ligament and a possible tear, and exploration of the same for extruded disc
fragments is an important step .The presence of such extruded disc fragments may be suggested
by a careful study of the MRI pictures. When multiple levels (more than two) are involved, many
advocate fusion in addition to discectomy.

When root pain is the predominant symptom, a fusion to prevent narrowing of the intervertebral
foramen is recommended.

A tricorticate graft obtained from the posterior iliac crest so that its cancellous part lie against the
subchondral bone above and below the space, while its cortical part forms the support between
the vertebrae (Smith Robinson technique) is commonly used.

Attempts to take a graft from the anterior iliac crest may injure the lateral cutaneous nerve of the
thigh. The Cloward's technique, using a bone dowel is also popular.Simmon's technique involves
making a keystone square in the adjacent vertebral bodies for the graft.

Bailey and Badgley technique involves making a rectangular trough in the adjacent bodies for
the graft.Cadaveric bone grafts and methyl methacrylate are used by some for obvious reasons,
but autografts have been found superior .Some advocate suturing the prevertebral fascia over the
graft to prevent graft migration.

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Some advocate anterior instrumentation in addition to bone grafting, especially in cases where
trauma is a factor. Anterior self locking plate fixation is common. Titanium cage filled with
cancellous bone fixation is especially useful (with or without plates) in multilevel corpectomy.
Post operatively, a hard cervical collar is advised for six weeks.

Posterior approach may be indicated in canal stenosis, either congenital or degenerative with
hard disc protrusions or hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum or multi segmental ossification of
posterior longitudinal ligament.

C3 to C7, posterior laminectomy is recommended despite the level of involvement and gives
adequate decompression. Additional foraminotomy (removal of the posterior wall of the
intervertebral foramen) is helpful in myeloradiculopathy. Occasionally a soft lateral disc
protrusion can be removed through hemi or a partial laminectomy or through an interpedicular
approach.

The complications of an extensive laminectomy are, late development of spinal deformity and
peridural fibrosis. These can possibly be avoided by expansive laminoplasty. It is performed by
completely incising the laminae on one side and partially on the opposite side. Elevation with
tilting of the lamina upwards on the incised side allows enlargement of the canal.12

There has been no documentation of long term benefit from surgery, although many series have
shown evidence of benefit in the short term.21

Prevention of cervical spondylosis

Since cervical spondylosis is part of the normal aging process, not much can be done to prevent
it. It may be possible to ward off some or all of the symptoms by engaging in regular physical
exercise and limiting occupational or recreational activities that place pressure on the head, neck
and shoulders. The best exercises for the health of the cervical spine are noncontact activities,
such as swimming, walking, or yoga. Once symptoms have already developed, the emphasis is
on symptom management rather than prevention. 12

HOMOEOPATHIC CONCEPT
Life is a vital principle, a self moving force, a vital power which if acting in harmony preserves
our bodies a harmonious whole, a disturbance of which is disease, a lack of which is death. 24

Hahnemann classified disease into four great divisions. The first of these classifications
was simple, in that it embraces all diseases that might spring from mechanical and exterior
sources; this included fractures, strains, indiscretions of diet, external poisons such
as fumes or noxious plants, extremes of thermic conditions such as frostbite or sunstroke,
and all trade diseases.25

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Wear and tear on joints that accompanies aging (osteoarthritis) and Trauma such as automobile
accidents with whiplash injury, athletic injuries, sudden jerks on arms, falls contribute to the
aetiopathogenesis of cervical spondylosis,it can be put under this above mentioned
classification.

It was Hahnemann’s teaching that the removal of the cause was the first step in the proper
method of cure. This may occasion at times surgical procedure; rectification of diet;
the removal of irritating substances; change of environment; anything and everything that
may place the patient in the best possible relation for complete cure, which will take place of
itself when the cause is removed.25

To classify disease conditions as circumstantial or environmental is to view them in a

limited way, and we must recognize the background and meet them on that ground if we are
to cure. For this reason it is essential to find the similimum and to find the remedy for these
conditions we must seek a deep acting remedy to eradicate the evil. It is only by using the
dynamic form of the similimum that we can hope to eradicate the evil.25

To the three remaining groups Hahnemann gave the term miasms25. In aphorism 72 of Organon
of medicine37 Dr. Hahnemann describes that chronic diseases are caused by infection with a
chronic miasm. The miasms always make themselves known by the character of their
symptoms.27 The true pathognomonic symptoms of a given case are those that cover the existing
active miasm. In this way our therapeutic grouping becomes a miasmatic one and not a
pathological one.

We are able to detect by some sign, symptom and all pervading conditions that there is a
characteristic difference in each individual case that gives it its individuality, causing it to differ
from all other cases.24

According to H. A. Robert, dull, heavy yet lancinating headache; persistently constant at the
base of the brain on one side and Destruction of tissues (bones) are syphilitic manifestations.

Inflammatory rheumatism, inflammation of soft tissues and muscles and overgrowth of tissues
are sycotic .There are tearing pains in the joints, which are worse during rest, worse during
cold damp weather, better moving or stretching, better dry weather. There are pains in the small
joints with infiltrations and deposits. Stiffness, soreness and lameness are characteristic of this
stigma. The troubles in the joints, where there are deposits of lime salts as in arthritis deformans,
are sycotic.

In Hahnemann’s chronic diseases26,it is mentioned that the swellings of the bones and the
curvature of the spine, and many other softenings and deformities of the bones, both at an early
and at a more advanced age, are caused by the psora.
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Predisposition to strains, even from carrying or lifting a slight weight, often caused even by
stretching upward and reaching out the arms from objects which are hung high (so also a
multitude of complaints resulting from a moderate stretching of the muscles: headache, nausea,
prostration, tensive pain in the muscles of the neck and back, etc.), disposition to crack, strain or
wrench one joint or another, cracking of one or more joints on moving, lancinating, cutting,
painful stiffness of the nape of the neck, of the small of the back, joints, painful on motion,
crawling or also prickling formication (as from the limbs going to sleep) in the arms, in the legs
and in other parts (even in the fingertips)are all manifestations of latent psora.

According to J. H.Allen24 shooting or tearing pain in the muscle and joints. and stiffness and
soreness especially lameness are sycotic .In the arthritis of sycosis or rheumatism, we have an
infiltration of inflammatory deposits, but it readily absorbs and is never formative as we find in
syphilis and tubercular changes, which are permanent unless dissipated by treatment.

Neuralgic pain may be usually relieved by quiet, rest and warmth, worse by motion is psoric.

According to S.K.Banergy28 various types of rheumatism and neuralgic pain may be usually
relieved by quiet, rest and warmth, worse by motion are psoric.

Sycotic symptoms include joints and connective tissues affection, concretion due to rheumatic
affection, stiffness and soreness especially lameness and stitching, pulsating and wandering
pains.

Syphilis affects the bony structure which may be changed and causes bone pain.

According to P.N.Banerjee,27 long-lasting pain in the muscle, bone and nerve on the slightest
injury and various kinds of sounds like gliding of bones are coming under psora. Rheumatism is
a sycotic manifestation. Severe pain in bones and degeneration of parts are syphilitic.

Phyllis speight29 noted in his writings that neuralgic pains either psoric or pseudo-psoric usually
better by quiet, rest and warmth. Numbness of extremities with tingling sensation is also psoric.
Stiffness and soreness especially, lameness is very characteristic of sycosis.

Dr. Harimohan choudhry30 in his book ‘Indications of miasm’, mentioned that cracking of one
or more joints on moving, predisposition to sprains, even from carrying or lifting a slight weight
are symptoms of latent psora. Psoric neuralgic pains are usually better by quiet rest and warmth
and worse motion. Another psoric symptom is hot hands with burning sensation in palms. Bone
pains indicate syphilis and joint pains is the indication of sycosis.

It is a fundamental rule in the treatment of chronic diseases to let the action of the remedy
selected in a mode homoeopathically appropriate to the cases of disease which has been carefully

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investigated as to its symptoms come to an undisturbed conclusion, so long as it visibly advances

a cure and while improvement still perceptibly progresses chronic disease.

In treating the combined stigmata, the most outstanding must be treated first, since we base
our method of treatment upon symptoms similarity, and where psora is present, psora will be
the most outstanding in the symptom totality in the earlier manifestations. This manifestation
must be treated first; then after that is eradicated or considerably lessened, the next most potent
dyscrasia, as it expresses itself in the symptomatology, must be treated, until this, too, is
eradicated.25

RUBRICS FOR CERVICAL SPONDYLITIS

Phatak -60

1. Neck, spondylitis - ph-ac

2. spondylitis, cervical -ph-ac

Murphy57 - Diseases

Spondylitis, neck - ph-ac

Murphy - Diseases

Torticollis, spondylitis suboccipital is, from - asaf, mez, nat-m, phos, sil, sulph

Murphy - Neck

Inflammation, neck region spondylitis - ph-ac, rhus-t

Complete repertory58 - Back

Spondylitis cervical - ph-ac

Boericke31- Locomotor

Nape, of neck, pains, in general

ACON, aesc, am-c, BELL, chin-ar, CIMX, coloc, ferr-pic, GELS, graph, hyper, jug-
c, lach, lyc, nat-s, par, verat, vib, fel, zinc-val, x-ray

Boericke - Locomotor

Nape, of neck, pains, rheumatic

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acon, BRY, calc-p, caust, CIMX, colch, DULC, GUAI, iod, kali-
i, LACHN, petr, puls, rado, rhod, RHUS-T, sang, stel, STICT

Neck, cracking of cervical vertebrae, on motion

aloe, COCC, NAT-C, nicc, ol-an, thuj

Kent’s repertory 59

Back - cracking - Cervical region

Two mark medicines: agar. chel.; cocc ,nat-c ,nicc ,petr ,sulph

Back - pain - Cervical region

3 mark medicines

ars., bell. ,caust., cic. ,gels., graph., lac-c., par., ph-ac.,rhod.,

2 mark medicines

Acon. aesc. aeth. agar.alum.; am-c.; anac.; apis; ars-i.; asar.;atro.; bamb-a.; bry.; calc.; calc-
p.;camph.; carb-v.;chel.;chin.; chinin-s.;cocc.;cinnb.; coloc.; con.; daph.; dros.; dulc.; ferr-p.;
fl-ac.; form.; glon.; guaj.;hell.; hep.; hydrog.; ign.; ip.; kali-ar.; kali-bi.; kali-p.; kalm.; lach.;
lyc.; lyss.; mag-p.; med.; merc.; mez.; nat-s.; nux-m.; phos.; phyt.;puls.; ran-b.; sang.; sil.;tab.;
zinc.;

1 mark medicines

Abrot.; ail.; ail.; all-c.; all-s.; alum-sil.; alumn.; am-m.; ambr.; ang.; ant-c.; aq-mar.; arg-met.;
arizon-.; arn.; ars-s-f.; arum-t.; aur-m-n.; bar-c.; bar-s.; berb.; borx.; buth-a.; cact.; calc-f.; calc-
f.; calc-s.; calc-sil.; cann-i.; cann-s.; canth.; carb-ac.; carb-an.; carbn-s. card-m.; caustcench.;
chinin-ar.; cimic.; cimic.; clem.; cloth.; coc-c.;cod.; colch.; colum-p.; cortico.; crat.; crot-c.; crot-
h.; cund.; cupr.; cupr.; cupr-ar.; cur.; cycl.;cystein-l.; cyt-l.; dendr-pol.; dig.; dios.; dol.; dream-p.;
echi.; eup-per.; ferr.; ferr-ar.; gamb.; grat.; ham.; kali-c.; kalicy.; kali-n.; kali-p.; kali-s.; kali-sil.;
kalm.; kola; lac-c. lachn.; laur.; led.; meph.; nat-m.; naja; nux-v.; ox-ac.; petr.; pic-ac.; pip-m.;
plb.; podo.;psor.; rhus-t.; rumx.; ruta sabin.; sacch.;sal-al.; samb.; sep.; spig.; stann.; staph.;
stram.; stry.;tarax.; tarent.; thuj. tub.; vario.; verat.;

Back - stiffness - Cervical region

3 mark medicines

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Agar.;anac.; arg-met.;bar-c.; bell.; calc.; calc-f.; caust.;

chel.;cic.;cimic.;euph.;hell.;ign.;ind.;kalic.;lach.;lachn.;lyc.;mag-c.;nit-ac.;nux-v.;rhus-
t.;sil.;

2mark medicines

Aesc.;alum.; am-m.; ang.; ant-t.; ant-t.; apis;ars.; aur-m-n.; bamb-a.; bapt. brom.; bry.; calc-p.;
canth.; carb-v.; cedr.; chin.; cocc.; coloc.; con.;2 dig.; dros.; dulc.; ferr.; fl-ac.; gels.; glon.;
graph.; hep.;kali-chl.; kali-i.; kali-n.; kali-s.; lac-c. led.; lyss.; manc.; mang.;merc.; mez.;nat-c.;
nat-m.; nat-s.; par.; petr.; phos.; phys.;phyt.; plat.; podo.; psor.; puls.; rhod.; rhus-v.; sang.;
sep.; spong.; spig.; staph.; stry.; sulph.;syph.; tab.; tarent.; thuj.; zinc.;

Extremities - pain - Upper limbs – neuralgic

2 mark medicines

Acon.;crot-t.;ferr.;rhus-t.;staph.;

1 mark medicines

Aesc.;arn.;ars.;calc.;croth.;crott.;graph.;hyper.;ign.indg.;iod.;lyc.;mez.;par.;phos.;ran-
b.;sep.;sulph.;ter.;verat.

Therapeutics of cervical spondylosis according to the views of different authors

‘THE HOMOEOPATHIC DOMESTIC PHYSICIAN’62 by Constantine Hering mentioned that,

if lifting or carrying heavy loads or any sudden exertion produces pain, give Rhus tox. Bryonia is
indicated when pain is < on any motion. If both these drugs do not relieve entirely, try Sulphur.
If headache ensues and Rhus tox will not remove it, then give Calcarea carb.

‘DICTIONARY OF DOMESTIC MEDICINE AND HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT WITH

A SPECIAL SECTION ON DISEASES OF INFANTS’,49 by Clarke noted that ,rheumatic
affections of muscles of neck: sudden turn of head will sometimes seems to cause it attended
with pain on every movement. If this condition is persisting it may depend on some disorder of
the spinal nerves. The application of heat is the best local remedy. Medicines (repeat every hour
or two until relieved).Aconite 3: Pain with distinct chill, peevish restless patient, Bryonia 3:
Affected part painful to touch, least motion causes great pain. Actea racemosa 3: Rheumatic pain
and stiffness in muscles of back and neck. Pulsatilla 3: Pain better out of doors, worse indoors.

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‘LILIENTHAL THERAPEUTICS’36 by Samuel Lilienthal mentions the following drugs for

neck pain due to spinal irritation

Aconite, Aethusa cyn, Arnica, Baryta carb, Belladonna, Bryonia, Calcarea carb, Calcarea phos,
Causticum, Cereus bonplandii, Chelidonium, Chininum sulph, Cimicifuga, Cocculus,
Colchicum, Colocynthis, Lachesis, Lachnanthes, Ledum, Lycopodium, Magnesia mur,
Mercurius, Natrum ars, Natrum carb, Nux vomica, Oxalic acid, Phosphorus, Phosphoric acid,
Plumbum, Pulsatilla, Rhus tox, Stramonium and Sulphur.

For inflammation of vertebrae, Phos. for two weeks, and then alternating with Nat., mur. As soon
as abscesses form, sil and Sulph., or Asa., Bell. Hep., Iod and Mez.

Acon, Bell., Bry., Calc., Caust., Chin., Ign., Kalm., Lach., Nux v., Puls., Spig.,and Sulph for
cervico occipital neuralgia

The important medicines for cervico-brachial neuralgia are Acon., Arn., Ars., Fer., Graph., Ign.,
Lyc., Phos., Rhus, Sep., Staph., Sulph.,and Veratr.

According to ‘CLARKE PRESCRIBER’63, in severe and recent attacks of neuralgia the

medicines may be given at first every quarter of an hour until relief is obtained. Sudden pains,
especially if right side of face and head, < least movement or touch, eating or speaking; < 4 to 8
p.m.then give Lyc. 30, 4 hourly.

Pain right side of face, and down right arm followed by numbness, slow pulse, then Kalm. 3, 2
hourly is indicated .In syphilitic, conditions Mez. 3, 2 hourly is mentioned. Rheumatic pain, <
on the approach of storms, Rhod. 3, 2 hourly is noted. Pain in the bones with swellings, Phyt. 3,
2 hourly and pain, as if nerve were put on the stretch and suddenly let go, < in warm room, > in
cold air, Puls. 3, 2 hourly is indicated.

Cramping pains associated with coldness and numbness, Plat. 6, 2 hourly is the remedy
mentioned. Plantago major is very useful in almost all kinds of neuralgia as a local application. It
may be painted on the part as often as necessary.

In neuritis, from exposure to dry cold, with intolerable pains in debilitated subjects, Ars. 3-30, 1-
2 hourly and especially of the brachial nerves, with numbness of hands and arms, Xanth. -30, 1-2
hourly is mentioned. Symptoms < after sleep, Lach. 6, 4 hourly and pressing, cramping, tearing,
throbbing pain from periphery to centre, often with red streaks, Bell. -30, 1 hourly may be
considered.

Stiff-neck from a draught or chill; tearing in the nape, painful stiff-neck, worse on moving the
neck; pain extending down the neck into the shoulder, Aco. 3, 1 hourly may be considered.

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Head and neck retracted; rheumatic pain and stiffness in muscles of neck and back, sensitiveness
of the spine, Act. r. 3, 1 hourly may be the remedy. Stiff-neck; neck stretched out, head bent
back. Ant. t. 6, 2 hourly and stiff-neck, spraining on moving it, head twisted to one side,
Lachnan. -30 2 hourly are to be noted. Painful stiff-neck, < by touch or motion then Bry. 3, 1
hourly and paralysis; pains and stiffness, Colch. 3, 1 hourly may be indicated. From damp and
cold; pain in the nape as if after lying with the head in an uncomfortable position then Dulc. 3, 1
hourly may be considered. From dry cold, the pain < on the approach of stormy weather,
then,Rhod. 3, 1 hourly. Pain and stiffness in the right side, Chel. 1, 1 hourly [Locally the part
may be ironed with a hot flat iron, a piece of flannel being placed over the part affected.]

In ‘BERNETT COLLECTED WRITINGS’48 he made a comment about neuralgia is that, if

there is anything earth-life of ours that is hard to bear, surely it is neuralgia. And if there is
anything in this world that can cure does not mean relieve, but cure, really cure neuralgia, that
thing is homoeopathy.

Another informative quoting from the above said book is as follows,

‘I want also to teach that neuralgia is not only, as a rule, radically curable by properly chosen
remedies, but that the curing of the neuralgia by the right remedy (or remedies) is a cure of the
internal cause of said neuralgia, and there fore a cure of the organismic self of the individual.
There is no such a thing as a panacea or specific for all sorts of neuralgia, or, in other words,
every neuralgia has pathology of its own. Aconite is most frequently indicated when the pain
comes from a cold, rheumatism, or active congestion. Acidum hippuricum however, runs it very
close, and quite outsets it when the neuralgia is primarily arthritic. I am not sure but Sulphur
comes next in rank to Aconite, and Dr. Cooper praises it very warmly in ague and malarial
neuralgia. It is Hahnemann's great antipsoric, and is also as such very frequently indicated. A
very reliable indication for Sulphur is, further, where the pain comes from the suppression of a
psoric or diathesic eruption.This anti-neuralgic action of Nat. mur. had the great advantage of
being permanently curative, as the pain did not return, and patient herself continued otherwise
well.’

Dr:G.H.G.Jahr in his book ‘THERAPEUTIC GUIDE,THE MOST IMPORTANT RESULT OF

MORE THAN 40 YEARS OF PRACTICE ‘38 mentions drugs like Acon. ,Bry., Bell., Kali carb.
and Lach for spinal irritation attented with painful rigidity of nape of neck.If the neck at the same
time twisted ,he suggested Caust,Calc and Ars alb.

‘QUICK BED SIDE PRESCRIBER’46 proposes Lachn 2oo for spondylitis ie, inflammation of
vertebra .Mag phos 30X, Kali mur 30X, and Calc fl 30X are also important.

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Dr. Richard Hughes in his book ‘A MANUAL OF PHARMACODYNAMICS’47 suggested

Aconite, Actea racemosa, Bry, Colch and Dulc for stiffneck.

In the book ‘BEST OF BURNETT’48 compiled by Dr. H. L. Chidkara, it is written as Phos and
Ferr are important for neuralgia.

It is mentioned in the book ‘A DICTIONARY OF DOMESTIC MEDICINE AND

HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT WITH A SPECIAL SECTION ON DISEASES OF
INFANTS’49 that application of the heat is the best local remedy for wry neck. Aconite, Bry, and
Puls are other effective remedies.

Aconite , Bell, Chamomilla, Kalm, Colocynth, Merc, Spig, Ars, Bry, Caust, Lyco, Mezerium,
Nux vom, Phos and Puls are mentioned in the book ‘THE OUTLINE OF MATERIA
MEDICA’50 by Henry Buck for neuralgia.

‘A SYNOPTIC KEY OF THE MATERIA MEDICA’51 by C. M. Boger tells that Cimicifuga,

Gels, Calc carb, Sep, Puls and Sil are good for neck ache. Bell and Rhus tox for wry neck.

‘HOMOEOPATHIC PRACTICAL MATERIA MEDICA OF 332 REMEDIES’52 by J. C.

Ghosal said that Aconite , Bell, Chamomilla, Kalm, Colocynth, Merc, Spig, Ars, Bry, Caust,
Lyco, Mezerium, Nux vom, Phos , Puls, Mag phos, Plat, Zinc, and China are important for
neuralgia.

FARRINGTON’S ‘LECTURES ON CLINICAL MATERIA MEDICA’35 mentions Phos, Sil,

Sulph, Gettysburg water and Phos. Ac. for vertebral carries.

‘KNOWLEDGE OF THE PHYSICIAN’53 by Richard Hughes considered Aconite, Kalm, Bry,

Propylamine, Rhus tox, Dulc, Rhodo, Spig, Actea, Ledum, Merc, Phyto, and Sulph. for neck
pain.

Drugs like Acon, Bry, Cepa, Hyper, Kalm, Paris, Phyto, Rhus tox, Merc, and Tereb. are
mentioned for brachial neuralgia in the book ‘REALISTIC MATERIA MEDICA WITH
THERAPEUTIC HINTS’54.

‘KANSAL’S PRACTICE OF MEDICINE WITH HOMOEOPATHIC THERAPEUTICS’55

noted, Aconite , Bell, Merc, Bry, Puls ,Dulc, Caust,Lacn, Guaiac,and Sticta for pain and
stiffness of neck. Aconite, Bry, Kalm, Rhus tox, Spig ,Sang, and Nux vom. for cervico brachial
neuralgia.

‘HAND BOOK OF HOMOEOPATHIC PRACTICE’56 by C. G. Publmann described the

following suggestions, ie. After injuries or over exertion as well as when pricking pain are

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present Arnica 3X, and in recent cases successively with Aconite 3X. After chill Rhus tox 3 X, if
associated with symptoms of paralysis then, Caust 3X for brachial neuralgia.

For neuralgia of the brachial plexus affecting the shoulder joint, upper arms etc, Bell, Thuja,
Calc, Lyco and Verat alb are so far proved the most efficient remedies.

For arthritic affections most efficient remedies are Caust, Calc, Lyco, Sulphur, Thuja and Anti
crude. In the chapter diseases of the bones, he stated that whenever bone diseases plainly
originate in the scrofulous miasm, he commenced the treatment, whatever the form of these
diseases may be with Sulph, Calc, Lyco, and Silicea. Silicea is one of our best bone remedies.
Phos, Phosphoric acid and Staph are administered with excellent effect. In syphilitic bone
diseases Merc, Aur, Phos, Phos acid, Kali iod and Fluoric acid are indicated.

C. Cowperthwaite in his book, ‘A TEXT BOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA AND

THERAPEUTICS, CHARACTERISTIC,ANALYTICAL AND COMPARITIVE’39, he mentions
drugs like Asafoetida, Aurum, Calc carb, Calc fluor, Calc phos, Fluoric acid, Kali iod, Nitric acid
and Phos.,Agaricus, Hypericum, Phos, Nat mur, Puls, Silicea, Sul, Kali carb, Cocculus, Gels,
Arnica etc for spinal irritation.

OTTO LESSER – TEXT BOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA40, suggested plumb. met. for spinal
cord disease with nerve involvement and Phos for progressive spinal paralysis.

Arg met, Ars alb, Caust, Mag carb, Mag phos, Plumb met and Zinc met for peripheral nerve
affections.

Oxalic acid, Ammon. mur, Ars, Caust, Hepar sul, Kali bich, Kali carb, Mag carb, and Mag phos,
Merc, Nat mur, Phos, Sulph and Zinc met for neuralgia.

‘PRINCIPLES OF PRESCRIBING’41 by Dr. K.N.Mathur.described Curare 4X- 200C for

pseudo – hypertrophic paralysis with weakness of hands and fingers of pianists, and abolished or
diminished reflexes and Gels 6C to 30C for affections of last 5 cervical nerves.

‘LESSER WRITINGS WITH THERAPEUTIC HINTS’42 by E.A. Farrington mentions the

following medicines,

Pain, neuralgia, bone and periosteal pains Rhus venera, for tearing from each temple, back to
occiput and down neck to shoulders, Silicea for occiput forwards. Aconite, Cimicifuga, Bell,
Bryonia, Gels, Mag mur, Mag phos, Naja, Manganum, Nat mur, Phos, Plantago, Prunus spinosa
and Juglans cathartica for neuralgic pains. Glonoine, Agar, Arg.met, Graph, Kali nitr, Spigelia
for stiffness and rigidity. For pain extending from neck to occiput,suggested remedies are
Nat.mur, Kali carb, Kalmia, Dioscorea, Dulc, Ferr, and Glonoine.

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‘A BOOK ON ‘RHEUMATIC DISEASES’64 by Dr.S.L.Kumar has given importance to

medicines like Arg. Met, Bell, Cimicifuga, Lachesis, Nat.sulph ,and Radium for cervical
spondylitis.

‘PRACTICAL HOMOEOPATHIC THERAPEUTICS’43, by W.A. Dewey has given importance

to the following medicines.

Colchicum, Ledum, Amm phos, Anti crud, Lyco, Picric acid, and Rhododendron for arthritis.
Phos, Calc carb,and Silicea for syphilitic carries of vertebrae. Phosphoric acid for carries of
spine.

Aconite, Chamommilla, Colocynth, Nux vom, Stann met, Rhus tox, Spigelia, Actea, Bell, Ars
alb, Nat mur, Sulphur, Kalmia, Mag phos, Puls, Calc for neuralgia.

A psoric or arthritic soil will demand as a systemic remedy, an anti-psoric such as sulphur or
lycopodium and if of syphilitic origin, high dilutions of syphilinum will clear the field.

Actea, Sulphur, Bell, Gels, Nat mur, Puls, Agar, Zinc, Phos, Cocculus, Nux vom, Oxalic acid,
Kali carb etc for spinal affections.

‘RAUE’S PATHOLOGY’44 has given the following suggestions such as, spinal irritation if
located in the cervical region causes head and chest symptoms; remedies like Actea, Asaf, Bell,
Cocculus, Hyper, Nat mur, Piper math, Rhus tox, Secale, Tarent are important.

For cervico – brachial neuralgia remedies like Acon, Arn, Ars, China, Ferr, Graph, Ign, Lyco,
Phos, Rhus tox, Sepia, Staph, Sulph and Verat.are important.

‘POINTERS TO THE COMMON REMEDIES’32 by M.L.Tyler mentions remedies like

Aconite, Bry, Nux, Caust, Rhus tox, Rhodo, Dulc, Ars, Bell, Salicylic acid, Sticta, Lac can, Ferr
phos, Kali bich, Puls, Ledum, Medorr, Eupat, Arn, Gels, Hepar, Actea,, Kalm, China, Drosera,
and Thuja. for acute rheumatism more the adult type.

‘HAND BOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA AND THERAPEUTICS OF HOMOEOPATHY’ by

Narasimhamoorthy45described the following remedies for arthritis,

Arthritis – Rhus tox, Bry, Puls, Ledum, Caust, Sul, Calc carb, Lyco, Merc, Thuja, Guaicum,
Phyto, Radium, Nat phos, Ferr phos, Kali mur, Mag phos, Calc phos, Silicea and Nat sulph.

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‘QUICK BED SIDE PRESCRIBER WITH NOTES ON CLINICAL RELATIONSHIPS OF

REMEDIES AND HOMOEOPATHY IN SURGERY’by J.N.Singhal46has given the following
suggestions,

Neck stiff, due to draught or chill, painful worse on moving the neck,then Aconite is the
medicine suggested. For neuralgia the medicines are Spigelia, Mag phos, Colocynth, Gels, and
Sanguinaria and for stiff neck he mentions Lachnanthes, Dulc,Acon, and Bell

Indications of medicines
Aconitum nap
Sudden onset of complaints, after exposure to cold dry air. Pains with formication and
numbness. Rheumatic inflammation of joints , pains intolerable. Intense bright red swelling of
part. Sensitive to contact . worse at night. 32
Sulphur has a strong relation to Aconite. In many of the old chronic cases where Sulphur would
be used in strong vigorous constitutions Aconite will be suitable for a sudden attack and Sulphur
for the chronic. 33Paralytic weakness of the arm and hand especially in writing.34

Actea racemosa
Especially useful in rheumatic, nervous subjects with ovarian irritation, uterine cramps and
heavy limbs. Worse ; morning, cold (except headache), during menses; the more profuse the
flow, the greater the suffering. Better warmth, eating 31
Sensitiveness of the spine; especially in the cervical and upper dorsal regions .Pains down arms
with numbness as if a nerve compressed. Affects the left side most.34

Belladonna
It is one of our best remedies both in acute and chronic Rheumatism. Rheumatic stiff-neck
caused by cutting the hairs, getting the head wet or sitting with the head exposed to a draft.35
We have in the rheumatism the heat redness and burning running through, with the same
sensitiveness of the whole patient and a sensitiveness of the joints to the jar of the bed. 33

Bryonia
The pains are aggravated from the slightest motion and are relieved by remaining perfectly quiet.
The affected parts are very hot and dark-red or pale-red. The tongue is either uniformly white or
more characteristically, dry and white down the centre. The bowels are usually constipated.
35
Hot patient. Thirst for cold drinks.

Calcarea Carb
Rheumatic affections caused by working in water; rheumatism of the back and shoulders, after
the failure of Rhus Tox .Rheumatism of the finger-joints.35 Chilly remedy

Calcarea Phos
It is useful in Rheumatism appearing in any change of weather or on exposure to dampness. 35

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Numbness and crawling are characteristic sensations, and tendency to perspiration and glandular
enlargement are symptoms it shares with the carbonate.31

Causticum
It is called for Rheumatism especially, when the joints are stiff and the tendons shortened,
drawing the limbs out of shape. Rheumatic pains attack particularly the articulation of the jaw;
they are < from cold and are > by warmth. It is also useful in Rheumatism of the right deltoid 35

Dulcamara
It is useful in Rheumatism, made worse by sudden changes in the weather35.The rheumatic
troubles induced by damp cold are aggravated by every cold change and somewhat relieved by
moving about. Stiff neck. Rheumatism alternates with diarrhea. 31.
Ferrum met
It is useful in Muscular Rheumatism, when the pains are < at night, and > by moving about
slowly. It especially affects the left deltoid muscle35.Best adapted to young weakly persons,
anaemic and chlorotic, with pseudo-plethora. Worse; while sweating; while sitting still; after
cold washing and overheating; midnight aggravation.31

Gelsemium
It may be useful in Gonorrhoeal Rheumatism35.Centers its action upon the nervous system,
causing various degrees of motor paralysis. Writer's cramp. Worse; damp weather, fog, before a
thunderstorm, emotion, or excitement, bad news, tobacco-smoking, when thinking of his
ailments; at 10 am. Better ; bending forward, by profuse urination, open air, continued motion,
stimulants .Chill running up and down the back. Thirstless remedy31

Kalmia Latifolia
Pains shift rapidly. Neuralgia; pains shoot downwards, with numbness. Deltoid rheumatism
especially right. Worse ; leaning forward; looking down; motion, open air31. Rheumatism when it
affects the chest and is especially useful when it shifts from the joints to the heart, particularly
after external applications to the joints, of substances not homoeopathic to the case. The pulse is
slow 35

Lac Caninum
It is indicated when the pains are <from warmth .35The keynote symptom is, erratic pains,
alternating sides. Worse ; morning of one day and in the evening of next. Better ; cold, cold
drinks31.

Lachesis.
Cannot bear anything tight anywhere. Lachesis sleeps into aggravation ;ailments that come on
during sleep. Worse ,left side, in the spring, warm bath, pressure or constriction, hot drinks;
Closing eyes. Better ; appearance of discharges, warm applications.31

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Lycopodium
It is useful when the urine contains a lithic acid deposit. Associated with this are : The arm feels
heavy and weak, but when he tries to use them finds that he can work quite well with them. The
right side is usually the seat of the disease.The pains are < from beginning to move and > from
continued motion . Hence aggravation in the afternoon from 4 to 8 pm 35

Medorrhinum.
A powerful and deep-acting medicine , often indicated for chronic ailments due to suppressed
gonorrhoea. Chronic rheumatism. Burning of hands and feet.Restless; better, clutching
hands.Wants to be fanned all the time.Chills up and down back; coldness of legs, hands, and
forearms.Sleeps in knee-chest position.Worse ; when thinking of ailment, from daylight to
sunset, heat, inland. Better ; at the seashore, lying on stomach, damp weather. 31

Nux Vomica
It is useful when the Rheumatism involves the larger joints and muscles. The symptoms are
almost always < towards morning. 35 Cervico-brachial neuralgia; worse, touch, cold. Must sit up
in order to turn in bed. Sitting is painful.31

Phosphorus
It is particularly indicated when endocarditis or myocarditis occurs during the course of acute
inflammatory rheumatism or pneumonia. Weakness and trembling, from every exertion.Can lie
only on right side. Worse ; touch; physical or mental exertion; twilight; warm food or drink;
change of weather, from getting wet in hot weather; evening; lying on left or painful side; during
a thunder-storm; ascending stairs. Better ; in dark, lying on right side, cold food; cold; open
air;washing with cold water; sleep.31

Phosphoric acid
The common acid "debility" is very marked in this remedy, producing a nervous
exhaustion.Boring pain between scapulae. Better ; from keeping warm.Worse ; exertion, from
being talked to; loss of vital fluids; sexual excesses; Everything impeding circulation causes
aggravation of symptoms.31

Phytolacca.
Shooting pain in right shoulder, with stiffness and inability to raise arm. Rheumatism pains;
worse in morning. Pains fly like electric shocks, shooting, lancinating, shifting rapidly. Worse ;
sensitive to electric changes; Effects of a wetting, when it rains,exposure to damp, cold weather,
rest.31

Pulsatilla
The tearing pains force the patient to move the affected parts. Erratic pain,now here and now
there ,pressure relieves these pains; they are usually < from warmth, in the evening and on
beginning to move, and are > by cold and from slow motion. Dry mouth with no thirst.35

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Rhus Tox
Relief of symptoms by continued motion and aggravation on beginning to move is present there
is aggravation during damp weather or from dwelling in damp places. It is especially suitable for
Rheumatism after exposure to cold or wet, particularly when one is over-heated or perspiring.
Other notable symptoms are: restlessness, all the time. The prominent projection of bones are
sore to the touch, as for example the cheek-bones. Rheumatism of the muscles of the back and
shoulders.35

Silicea
It is useful in Chronic Rheumatism. It is one of the remedies on which to depend in treating
hereditary rheumatism. The pains are predominantly in the shoulders and in the joints and are <
at night and when uncovering35 Great sensitiveness to taking cold. Pain begins at occiput, and
spreads over head and settles over eyes. Worse; new moon, in morning, from washing, during
menses, uncovering, lying down, damp, lying on, left side, cold. Better; warmth, wrapping up
head, summer; in wet or humid weather.31

Sulphur
It is indicated both in the acute and chronic rheumatism, particularly the latter, when the
inflammatory swellings ascend, i.e., they begin in the feet and extend up the body. The pains are
< in bed and at night. Burning in the feet, which the patient uncovers.35

Magnesia phos
Neuralgia every night, well during the day.Acute pains, coming periodically, excruciating,
spasmodic, extending to the ends of nerve-fibres. especially right side; crampy, shooting, darting
pains, aggravation by touch and after going to bed; also neuralgia of stomach and abdomen.>
warmth, pressure.36

Natrum mur
Ciliary neuralgia from sunrise to sunset, aggravation about noon; darting, shooting orbital
neuralgia with flow of saliva or involuntary tears; face ache with constipation, Aggravation
mornings, from reading, writing and talking. Amelioration at the seaside.36

Terebinthina
Neuralgia brachialis and subscapularis, supraorbitalis; mostly evenings and during the night in
bed till morning; Neuralgic headache; motion, difficult, at it starts or increases the pain ;
sometimes caused by sudden check of perspiration.36

Formica rufa (myrmexine).

An arthritic medicine. Gout and articular rheumatism; pains worse, motion; better,
pressure.Right side most affected. Muscles feel strained and torn from their attachment.
Rheumatism comes on with suddenness and restlessness.Worse ; cold and cold washing,
dampness, before a snowstorm. Better ; warmth, pressure, rubbing; combing hair31.

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Lachnanthes.
A remedy for torticollis, rheumatic symptoms about neck. Right-sided pain, extending down to
jaw; head feels enlarged; worse, least noise. 31.Sensation as if a piece of ice was lying on back
between shoulders, followed by chill, with gooseflesh all over. 36.

Paris quadrifolia.
Sense of weight and weariness in nape of neck and across shoulders. Neuralgia, beginning in left
intercostal region, and extending into left arm. Arm becomes stiff, fingers clenched. Fingers
often feel numb. Numbness of upper limbs31.

Picricum acidum.
Neurasthenia. Occipital pain; worse, slightest mental exertion. Vertigo and noises in ear. Burning
along spine. Cannot get warm. .Worse ; least exertion, especially mental, after sleep, wet
weather; A summer or hot weather remedy; patient is worse then. Better ; from cold air, cold
water, tight pressure.31

Angustura
Sensation of tremulousness in muscles of neck; pain in cervical vertebrae, as if dislocated, when
lifting the arm; drawing stiff feeling in the morning in bed and in afternoon, with stitches
extending deep into chest, during motion36

Bellis Perennis
This may be taken as a keynote: "effects of cold or iced drinks when heated"; rheumatism from
this cause. Near and remote effects of blows, falls, accidents (trauma). "waking up too early in
the morning and cannot get to sleep again" is a leading indication for its use.34

Cereus Bonplandii
Tenderness on pressure along the spines of all the cervical and upper dorsal vertebrae; pain in
cardiac region, with tenderness over left ribs just below the heart. 36

Pimpinello - (Bibernell).-
Respiratory mucus membrane sensitive to draughts, pain and coldness in occiput and nape.
Whole body weak; heavy head and drowsiness; lumbago and stiff neck; pain from nape to
shoulder; chilliness.31

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study was carried out at Govt. Homoeopathic Medical College, Calicut from June
2004 to September 2005

Materials
The materials for this study were selected from the patients who attended the outpatient
department of Materia Medica of Govt. Homoeopathic Medical College, Calicut. Patients
belonging to the age group 30-70 were included in the study. Both sexes and patients of all
socioeconomic classes were considered.
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Methods
All cases among the prescribed age group with the clinical features fitting to cervical
radiculopathy were taken up for the study and the diagnosis was confirmed on the basis
of positive X-ray findings visualized in antero posterior and lateral view of X- ray cervical
spine.
Systemic examination was done in all cases to exclude possibility of other diseases. Detailed
history was taken in each case with special reference to past history, family history, occupational
history, physical generals and mental generals.

In each case selection of medicines were based on the data such as aetiological factors, mental
generals, physical generals, concomitants, characteristic particulars, reportorial approach and
clinical indications from different authorities.

In all cases selection of potencies and repetition of medicines were done according to the
Homoeopathic principles.

In between the period of medication all patients were kept under blank tablet continuously. Out
of 30 cases selected there were 9 dropouts and a total of 21 subjects completed the study.

Research tools and technique.

Cervical radiculopathy assessment tool was developed after literature review and in consultation
with experts. Six major areas were identified as important parameters

1. Pain : No tenderness -0
Patient complain of pain -1
Patient complains of pain and winces -2
2. Stiffness : No stiffness -0
Morning stiffness -1
Stiffness occurring later in the day-2
3. Numbness : Absent -0
Moderate -1
Severe -2
4. Cracking on movement : absent -0
Present -1
5. Movements of neck : all movements possible -0
Restricted movements -1
Movement impossible-2
6. Associated symptoms : no associated symptoms-0
One associated symptom-1
More than one associated symptoms-2

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Follow up
All patients were reviewed on a fortnightly basis, to asses the subjective and objective
improvement. Each case was followed up for a minimum of 6 months from the commencement
of the treatment.

Diet and regimen

All patients were directed to continue the normal diet. They were also directed to stop the use of
other medicines prior to the start of this treatment.

Additional instructions
Practice neck exercise regularly, limiting occupational or recreational activities that place
pressure on the head, neck, and shoulders.
Effectiveness
Effectiveness was assessed on the basis of clinical improvement, relief of symptoms and change
in score taken before and after treatment.

Analysis
Various facts drawn out from this study were treated according to statistical principles

OBSERVATION AND DISCUSSION:

AGE WISE DISTRIBUTION OF PATIENTS

Age group No %
31-40 11 52
41-50 5 24
51-60 5 24
61-70 0 0

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Out of the 21 patients studied 11patients (52%) were between the age group 31-40. 5
patients (24%) were between 41-50. 5 patients (24%) were between 51-60.

60
52
50

40
Percentage

30 24 24

20

10
0
0
30 - 40 41 - 50 51 - 60 61 - 70
Age group

DISTRIBUTION OF PATIENTS ACCORDING TO SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS

Socioeconomic status No %
Lower 4 19
Lower middle 6 29
Middle 11 52
Upper middle 0 0

Out of the 21 patients studied 4 patients (19%) were under the low socioeconomic status. 6
patients (29%) belongs to lower middle class and 11 patients (52%) belongs to middle class.

19% 19%

LC
LMC
MC
UMC
29%
33%

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DISTRIBUTION OF PATIENTS ACCORDING TO THE PRESENTING COMPLAINTS.

Symptoms no %
Pain 21 1oo
Numbness 21 100
Stiffness of neck 21 100
Weakness of upper limb 13 62
Cracking in joints 11 52
Vertigo, nausea 5 24
Restricted neck movements 21 100

Out of the 21 patients studied all of them presented with pain , numbness, restricted neck
movements and stiffness of neck. 13 patients (62%) had Weakness of upper limb and 11 patients
(52%) had cracking in the inter vertebral joints on movement and 5 patients (24%) presented
with nausea and vertigo.

100

80

60

40

20

0
Pain

vertigo,
cracking in

nausea
Numbness

Stiffness of

movements
weakness
of upper

Restricted
joints
limb
neck

neck

DISTRIBUTION OF MEDICINES USED IN THE STUDY

Sl. No Medicine No. of patients Percentage
1 Sulphur 4 19.04
2 Pulsatilla 4 19.04
3 Lachesis 2 9.52
4 Silicea 1 4.76
5 Calcarea carb 3 14.28
6 Rhus tox 1 4.76
7 Lac caninum 1 4.76
8 Phosphoric ac 1 4.76
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9 Phosphorus 1 4.76
10 Bryonia 1 4.76
11 Lycopodium 2 9.52

Sulphur and Pulsatilla was found effective in 4 (19.04%) cases each. Calcarea carb in 3
(14.28%), Lachesis and Lycopodium in 2 (9.52%) cases each, Silicea, Rhus tox, Lac caninum,
Phosphoric acid, Phosphorus and Bryonia was found effective in 1 (4.76%) case each.

20
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
Rhus tox
Sulph
Puls

Bry
Phos
Lach

Lyco
Lac can
Calc carb

Phos acid
Sil

DISTRIBUTION OF MIASM IN CERVICAL SPONDYLOTIC RADICULOPATHY

Sl.No Miasm Dominant first Dominant second
1 Psora 18 3
2 Syphilis 3 17
3 Sycosis 0 1

Psora occupies as the first dominant miasm in 18 patients out of 21 underwent the study
and as second dominant in 3 patients. Syphilis was the second predominant miasm in 17 patients
and was the first dominant in 3 patients. Sycosis came as the second dominant miasm only in one
patient.

EFFECTIVENESS OF VARIOUS POTENCIES

Potency No: of > / D Percentage
30 0 0
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200 2 10
1M 14 67
10M 4 20

> - Amelioration of symptoms, D – Disappearance of symptoms

1M potency was found to be effective in 14 patients, as it ensured complete cure to 13

patients out of 21 patients and amelioration of pain in 1 patient. 10M was tried in 4 patients and
it cured them completely. 200th potency was given in 2 patients with total relief. 30th potency was
not found effective in this study.

Changes in clinical features after 6 months of treatment

Sn. Symptoms * > % < % S % D %

1 Pain 21 7 33 0 0 0 0 14 67

2 Numbness 21 12 57 0 0 2 10 7 33

3 Stiffness 21 0 0 0 0 6 29 15 71

4 Weakness 13 0 0 0 0 1 8 12 92

5 Vertigo, Nausea 5 0 0 0 0 1 20 4 80

6 Cracking in joints 11 0 0 0 0 8 73 3 27

7 Restricted neck 21 0 0 0 0 2 10 19 90
movements

* - Number of patients
> - Amelioration
< - Aggravation
S - No change
D – Disappearance
Out of 21 patients underwent this study, 7 (33%) 0f them got amelioration of pain and 14(67%)
of them were completely relieved of pain. There was amelioration of numbness in 12(57%)
patients, 7(33%) of them were totally relieved of numbness and no change was noticed in 2
(12%) patients. Disappearance of stiffness of neck in 15 (71%) patients and no change for this
symptom in 6 (29%) cases were noted. Out of 13 patients presented with weakness 12 (92%) of
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them got complete cure and no change in one (8%) patient. There was disappearance of nausea
and vertigo in 4 (80%) patients and no change in 1 (20%) patient among 5 presented with this
symptom. Disappearance of cracking in joints was observed in 3 (27%) patients and no change in
8 (73%) patients out of 11 patients presented with the same. Restricted neck movement remains
unchanged in 2 (10%) patients and all neck movements became possible in 19 (90%) patients out
of 21, after treatment.

Effectiveness of treatment after 6months follow-up

Sl.No Before treatment Mark After treatment Mark

1 P2 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS1 8 P0 S0 N1 M0 C1 AS0 2
2 P2 S2 N2 M1 C1 AS2 10 P1 S2 N2 M1 C1 AS2 9
3 P1 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS2 8 P0 S0 N1 M0 C1 AS0 2
4 P2 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS1 8 P1 S0 N0 M0 C1 AS0 2
5 P2 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS0 6 P0 S1 N0 M0 C0 AS0 1
6 P2 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS1 7 P0 S0 N1 M0 C0 AS0 1
7 P1 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS1 7 P0 S0 N1 M0 C1 AS0 2
8 P2 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS1 7 P1 S0 N0 M0 C0 AS0 1
9 P2 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS0 7 P0 S0 N0 M0 C0 AS0 0
10 P2 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS0 7 P1 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS0 6
11 P2 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS0 6 P1 S1 N1 M0 C0 AS0 3
12 P2 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS0 6 P0 S0 N1 M0 C0 AS0 1
13 P2 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS0 7 P0 S1 N0 M0 C1 AS0 2
14 P1 S2 N2 M1 C1 AS2 9 P0 S0 N1 M0 C1 AS0 2
15 P2 S1 N1 M1 C0 AS0 5 P0 S0 N1 M0 C0 AS0 1
16 P1 S1 N2 M1 C1 AS2 8 P0 S1 N1 M0 C0 AS0 2
17 P1 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS1 6 P0 S0 N1 M0 C1 AS0 2
18 P2 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS0 6 P1 S0 N1 M0 C0 AS0 2
19 P2 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS1 7 P1 S0 N0 M0 C0 AS0 1
20 P2 S2 N2 M1 C1 AS2 10 P0 S0 N1 M0 C1 AS0 2
21 P2 S1 N2 M1 C0 AS1 7 P0 S0 N0 M0 C0 AS0 0

P- pain , S – stiffness, N- numbness, M- movement, C- cracking in joint, AS- associated

symptom

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
The following marks were given to clinical features of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy for
statistical analysis:

SL.No Clinical features Marks

1. Patient complaints of pain (P1) 1
2. Patient complaints of pain & winces (P2) 2
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3. Morning stiffness (S1) 1

4. Stiffness occurring later in the day (S2) 2
5. Moderate numbness (N1) 1
6. Severe numbness (N2) 2
7. Cracking in joints (C1) 1
8. Restricted neck movements (M1) 1
9. Impossible movements (M2) 2
10. One associated symptom (AS1) 1
11. More than one associated symptom (AS2) 2

Marks given for the change in clinical features after treatment

SL.No Clinical features Marks
1. Reduction in pain 1
2. Disappearance of pain 0
3. Reduction in numbness 1
4. Disappearance of numbness 0
5. Reduction in stiffness 1
6. Disappearance of stiffness 0
7. Disappearance of cracking in joints 0
8. Restricted neck movements 1
9. All movements possible 0
10. One associated symptom 1
11. Disappearance of associated symptoms 0

Tests of significance:-
a) Questions to be answered. Is there any difference in the symptoms of the case before and after
treatment?
b) Null hypothesis Ho: no difference in the symptoms of the case before and after treatment.

x y z=x-y z- EQ EQ z (z- z )2
8 2 6 -0.86 0.7396
10 9 1 4.14 17.1396
8 2 6 -0.86 0.7396
8 2 6 -0.86 0.7396
6 1 5 0.14 0.0196
7 1 6 -0.86 0.7396
7 2 5 0.14 0.0196
7 1 6 -0.86 0.7396
7 0 7 -1.86 3.4596
7 6 1 4.14 17.1396

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6 3 3 2.14 4.5796
6 1 5 0.14 0.0196
7 2 5 0.14 0.0196
9 2 7 -1.86 3.4596
5 1 4 1.14 1.2996
8 2 6 -0.86 0.7396
6 2 4 1.14 1.2996
6 2 4 1.14 1.2996
7 1 6 -0.86 0.7396
10 2 8 -2.86 8.1796
7 0 7 -1.86 3.4596

Test of significance determined by using paired t test.

Z 108
EQ Z = n = 21 = 5.14

d. The estimation of the population standard deviation is given by

 ( Zi  Z ) 2 66.5716
Sz = n 1 = 20 = 3.32858 = 1.824
Z 5.14
SZ 1.824 5.14  21
Critical ratio ‘t’ = n = 21 = 1.824 = 12.91

Comparison with tabled t value:

This critical ratio, t, follows a distribution with (n-1) (21-1) degrees of freedom. The 5%
level is 2.086 and 1% level is 2.845 for 20 degrees of freedom. The calculated value 12.91 is
greater than the table value. Therefore the null hypothesis is rejected.

Inference
The efficacy of Homoeopathic medicines in the treatment of cervical radiculopathy due to
cervical spondylosis is evident by the reduction in the score after 6 months of treatment.
Therefore the treatment is effective.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

In the present study 21 patients who attended OPD of Materia Medica of Govt. Homoeopathic
Medical College, Calicut from June 2004 – to Sept 2005 were included. These patients belonged
to various socio-economic statuses and of age group between 30-70 years. The results of the
study were evaluated using statistical principles.

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Maximum age group affected is between 31 - 40 years and the incidence more in middle
class. Psora was found to be the miasm in the background.
In this study the efficacy of homoeopathic treatment in cervical spondylosis presenting with
radiculopathy was evaluated. Assessment was based on the changes in score noted before and
after treatment using the cervical radiculopathy assessment tool.
After statistical analysis, the calculated value was 12.91 which were well above the tabled t
value. Thus, this study provides an evidence to say that homoeopathic medicines are effective in
managing this condition.
Medicinal management was found to be very much effective. Sulphur and Pulsatilla was found
effective in 4 (19.04%) cases each. Calcarea carb in 3 (14.28%), Lachesis and Lycopodium in 2
(9.52%) cases each, Silicea, Rhus tox, Lac caninum, Phosphoric acid, Phosphorus and Bryonia
was found effective in 1 (4.76%) case each. But Bryonia gave only amelioration of pain and
there was no relief to the other presented features of the same patient and the same was the case
with phosphorus also.

CONCLUSION
The following salient conclusions have been drawn from the present study after summarizing its
findings.
1) Homoeopathic medicines are effective in the management of cervical spondylosis presenting
with radiculopathy
2) Age group mostly affected is between 31 – 40 years.
3) Incidence of the disease is more in middle class
4) Psora is the predominant miasm in the background.

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Dr. Smitha Madhavan B.H.M.S, MD(Hom)

Department of Organon Govt. Homeopathic Medical College.
Calicut.10 Kerala. India
Email : [email protected]

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