Cervical Myelopathy

Overview

Cervical myelopathy is a condition that affects the spinal cord in the neck. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Cervical myelopathy can cause a variety of symptoms, including weakness, clumsiness, numbness, and tingling in the arms and hands. In severe cases, it can also cause difficulty walking and problems with bladder and bowel control.

Causes

The most common cause of cervical myelopathy is age-related changes in the spine. These changes can narrow the spinal canal and put pressure on the spinal cord. Other causes of cervical myelopathy include:

• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Trauma to the neck
• Tumours in or near the spinal cord
• Inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis

Symptoms

The symptoms of cervical myelopathy can vary depending on the location and severity of the compression. Common symptoms include:

• Weakness in the arms and hands
• Clumsiness and difficulty with fine motor skills
• Balance and coordination problems
• Numbness and tingling in the arms, hands, or legs
• Changes in reflexes
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for preventing further neurological damage.

Diagnosis

To diagnose cervical myelopathy, your doctor will perform a physical examination and ask about your medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, to get a better look at your spine and spinal cord.

Treatment

Treatment for cervical myelopathy depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, conservative treatments, such as pain medication, physical therapy, and bracing, may be effective. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to decompress the spinal cord and prevent further neurological damage.

Benefits Of Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment of cervical myelopathy can help to:

• Relieve pain and other symptoms
• Prevent further neurological damage
• Improve quality of life

Risks Of Treatment

All treatments have some risks, but the risks of treating cervical myelopathy are generally low. Conservative treatments, such as pain medication and physical therapy, have very few risks. Surgery carries more risks, such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. However, the benefits of surgery often outweigh the risks.

Recovery

The recovery time from cervical myelopathy will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment received. Most people who are treated with conservative methods are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks or months. People who have surgery may need to wear a neck brace for several months and may have to restrict their activities for several months.

Prevention

There is no known way to completely prevent cervical myelopathy, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding smoking
• Exercising regularly
• Maintaining good posture

If you have any concerns about cervical myelopathy, please make an appointment.

We understand that being diagnosed with cervical myelopathy can be a scary experience. We want to assure you that there are treatment options available, and we will work with you to develop a plan that is best for your individual needs.