Cervical Spondylosis  

Information for Veterans and First Responders

Living with persistent neck pain or stiffness can be challenging, particularly for veterans and first responders who have faced physically demanding roles during their service. 

Cervical spondylosis, also known as neck arthritis, is a degenerative condition of the cervical spine (neck). It can lead to chronic discomfort, reduced mobility, and other complications affecting daily life and overall wellbeing. 

As veterans ourselves, we understand the unique health challenges faced by veterans and first responders. This page provides an overview of cervical spondylosis, its symptoms, and treatment options. 

What is cervical spondylosis? 

Symptoms of cervical spondylosis 

Common cervical spondylosis symptoms include: 

  • Chronic neck pain and stiffness 

  • Headaches, often starting at the base of the skull 

  • Numbness or tingling in the arms and hands 

  • Weakness in the upper limbs 

  • Difficulty turning the head or maintaining posture 

In some cases, individuals may also experience radiating pain, stiffness, or neurological symptoms if nerve roots are compressed.  

Symptoms may vary in severity and often worsen with prolonged activity or as part of the ageing process. 

Diagnosis and treatment of cervical spondylosis 

Diagnosing cervical spondylosis involves: 

• Consulting with your GP  

• Undergoing physical examinations  

• Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans  

These steps are crucial in determining the extent of the condition and creating an effective treatment plan. 

Treatment Options 

Treatment for cervical spondylosis may include: 

Conservative Approaches 

• Physiotherapy  

• Medications to manage pain 

• Lifestyle adjustments, posture and ergonomic improvements 

Surgical Interventions (for severe cases) 

• Decompression surgery to relieve pressure on nerves 

• Spinal fusion to stabilise the affected vertebrae 

Learn more about how Provocatus supports veterans with chronic conditions such as lumbar spondylosis through the Veteran Access Scheme™. 

Veterans with Cervical Spondylosis 

Veterans and first responders are at an increased risk of developing cervical spondylosis due to the physical demands, repetitive stress, and injuries associated with their roles. 

For veterans, the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) provides support and compensation for veterans diagnosed with service-related cervical spondylosis. 

Veterans may also access treatment through programs like the Provisional Access to Medical Treatment (PAMT) while claims are processed. 

At Provocatus, we take pride in addressing the unique health challenges faced by veterans. Explore the Pillars of Care that guide our approach. 

— Dr Michael Mumford MBBS FRACGP, Medical Director Provocatus Pty Ltd

“The biggest barrier, I find, is someone who understands the veteran. Finding a prescriber or doctor who knows the veteran and what they’ve been through, the medications they’re on and knows the DVA system. At Provocatus, we work with the veteran to gain confidence and navigate the system in a safe and ethical manner.”

Resources and Support 

Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA): Comprehensive details on accepted conditions and compensation. 
Learn more about DVA Compensation claims and services.

Provisional Access to Medical Treatment (PAMT): Access treatment while your claim is being processed. 
Explore PAMT benefits 

DVA clinical resources for spondylosis: Information on lumbar, cervical, and thoracic spondylosis. Click here to view  

Looking for additional insights?  

Read our latest blog post on the DVA Rehabilitation Appliances Program and get more information through our DVA claims guide on veteran health topics. 

FAQ’s

  • You should contact your GP to discuss treatment options. If you do not have a GP, please contact us and we will assist you with finding a GP in your local area or book a telehealth consultation if you live in a rural area where a GP is unavailable.

  • In relation to your claim, contact the DVA directly and they will advise you on the next steps. If you are looking for treatment options, speak to your GP or contact us to put you in touch with a GP local to you.

  • The DVA RAP SOP listing provides the most current information and guidance, prepared by a DVA contracted medical adviser, on confirming a diagnosis, applying a SOP correctly, establishing clinical onset, assessing clinical worsening, applicable ICD codes; and changes made in the most recent versions of the SOPs, as detailed in SOP bulletins that were issued at the time of the changes. 

    Here is the current DVA SOP for Cervical Spondylosis (as at December 2024).

Our clinical team at Provocatus understands the challenges of managing conditions like Cervical Spondylosis. We are here to guide you through treatment options and provide personalised care.

Contact us today to take the first step toward relief and improved wellbeing. Together, we can help you access support in your health and wellbeing journey.