Cervical myelopathy is a condition that affects the spinal cord in the neck region. It is a degenerative disorder that is caused by the gradual wear and tear of the cervical spine. This can occur due to aging, injury, or certain medical conditions.

The symptoms of cervical myelopathy can vary from person to person, but they often include neck pain, weakness, and numbness in the arms and hands.

Causes of Cervical Myelopathy

Cervical myelopathy is caused by the compression of the spinal cord in the neck region. This can occur due to a variety of factors, including:.

Herniated discs
Bone spurs
Bulging discs
Thickened ligaments
Tumors
Spinal stenosis

These factors put pressure on the spinal cord, which in turn can cause a range of symptoms in patients with cervical myelopathy.

Symptoms of Cervical Myelopathy

The symptoms of cervical myelopathy can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, patients may not experience any symptoms at all. However, in many cases, patients with cervical myelopathy will experience the following symptoms:.

Neck pain
Weakness or numbness in the arms and hands
Tingling or pins and needles in the hands and fingers
Poor coordination or balance
Difficulty walking
Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)

These symptoms can be quite debilitating and can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life.

Diagnosis of Cervical Myelopathy

To diagnose cervical myelopathy, a doctor will need to perform a physical exam and take a detailed medical history.

They may also order some diagnostic tests, such as an MRI or X-ray, to get a better look at the cervical spine and identify any abnormalities that may be present.

Once a diagnosis of cervical myelopathy has been made, treatment can begin.

Treatment of Cervical Myelopathy

The treatment of cervical myelopathy will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause.

In mild cases, conservative treatment such as physical therapy or pain medication may be all that is needed to manage symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.

In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Surgery can help relieve the pressure on the spinal cord and improve the patient’s symptoms. There are several different surgical options available to patients with cervical myelopathy, including:.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
Posterior Cervical Laminectomy
Cervical Corpectomy

These surgical procedures are designed to remove the source of pressure on the spinal cord and restore normal function to the neck and arms.

Prevention of Cervical Myelopathy

While it may not be possible to completely prevent cervical myelopathy, there are some steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk of developing the condition:.

Maintain good posture when sitting and standing
Avoid activities that put excessive strain on the neck
Practice regular neck exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the cervical spine
Seek prompt medical attention if you experience any neck pain or other symptoms of cervical myelopathy

By taking these steps, individuals can help reduce their risk of developing this debilitating condition.

Conclusion

Cervical myelopathy can be a difficult condition to manage, but with prompt diagnosis and treatment, patients can experience significant improvement in their symptoms.

By taking steps to prevent the condition from developing in the first place, individuals can help protect their cervical spine and minimize their risk of developing this degenerative disorder.