What is Cervical Myelopathy?
Recognizing the Symptoms of Cervical Myelopathy
Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt or writing
Weakness, tingling, or numbness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
Difficulty maintaining balance while walking
Neck pain or stiffness
Loss of coordination
Changes in bladder or bowel control in advanced cases
Causes and Risk Factors
Cervical myelopathy is most often associated with age-related changes in the spine, although younger individuals can also develop the condition under certain circumstances. Some common causes and risk factors include:
Cervical Spondylosis
(age-related wear and tear of spinal joints and disks)
Herniated or Bulging Disks
Spinal Cord Injuries
Congenital Problems
(such as a narrow spinal canal)
Tumors or Growths
that press against the spinal cord
Diagnosing Cervical Myelopathy
Physical Examination
to evaluate reflexes, coordination, and muscle strength.
Imaging Tests
such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to observe the structures of the cervical spine.
Advanced Neuro Tests
as needed, to assess nerve function and pinpoint areas of concern.
Treatment Options for Cervical Myelopathy
Non-Surgical Options:
Physical Therapy
to strengthen muscles, improve balance, and support mobility
Medications
such as pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs to ease discomfort
Bracing
to provide neck support and limit movement, particularly in early-stage cases
Surgical Options:
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
Removal of the herniated or degenerated disk and fusing two vertebrae together to stabilize the spine.
Laminectomy with or without Fusion
Removal of the bone or tissue pressing on spinal cord, with or without fusion to stabilize the spine.
Cervical Disc Replacement
Removal of the damaged disk and replacement with an artificial one to maintain flexibility in the spine.
Anterior Cervical Corpectomy
Removal of a portion of the vertebral body in addition to ACDF, usually in cases with more severe spinal cord compression.
Cervical Laminectomy
Removal of part or all of the bony plate covering the spinal canal, allowing more space for the spinal cord.
Artificial Disk Replacement
Removal of the damaged disk and replacement with an artificial one to preserve motion in the spine.
Managing Cervical Myelopathy
While treatment may help alleviate symptoms, there are also steps individuals can take to manage cervical myelopathy and improve overall quality of life:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the spine
- Practice proper posture to decrease strain on the neck and back muscles
- Engage in low-impact exercises such as swimming or walking
- Avoid activities that aggravate symptoms, such as
Seeking Professional Help
Cervical myelopathy can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention from experienced professionals who specialize in spinal conditions. Our team at Total Orthopaedic includes board-certified orthopedic surgeons and specialists who have knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating cervical myelopathy. We are dedicated to providing personalized care and helping patients regain their mobility and comfort.
Supporting Recovery and Preventing Recurrence
Recovery from cervical myelopathy varies depending on individual factors. Physical therapy is often recommended after surgery to improve strength and flexibility. Regular follow-up appointments are also essential for monitoring progress over time.
The type of surgery will depend on the specific cause of spinal cord compression and the overall alignment and health of the cervical spine.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Understanding how cervical myelopathy affects your body and exploring treatment options can feel overwhelming. At Total Orthopaedic—we are committed to providing personalized care in a supportive environment. Every step of the way, we aim to ensure our patients make informed and confident decisions about their care.
