Cervical myelopathy is a condition that affects the spinal cord in the neck region, causing pain, numbness, weakness, and other symptoms.

It occurs when the spinal cord becomes compressed or irritated due to spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or other spinal abnormalities. If left untreated, cervical myelopathy can worsen over time and potentially lead to permanent damage. Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options available to alleviate symptoms and provide long-term relief.

1. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the management of cervical myelopathy.

A skilled physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to improve your range of motion, strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, and relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Physical therapy may also include manual therapy techniques, such as spinal mobilizations and manipulations, to reduce pain and improve spinal alignment.

2. Medications

In some cases, medications can help manage the symptoms of cervical myelopathy. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation around the affected area.

Muscle relaxants can help relieve muscle spasms and improve mobility. In certain situations, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications or corticosteroids to provide temporary relief.

3. Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) can be an effective way to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of cervical myelopathy.

During this procedure, a corticosteroid medication is injected directly into the epidural space near the affected nerve roots. This can provide targeted relief and reduce pain and inflammation, allowing patients to engage in physical therapy and improve their overall mobility.

4. Minimally Invasive Surgery

If conservative treatments are ineffective or if the condition is severe, surgery may be necessary to decompress the spinal cord and alleviate symptoms.

Minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as laminectomy or discectomy, can effectively remove the source of compression or instability. These procedures typically involve smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgeries.

5. Spinal Fusion

In some cases, spinal fusion surgery may be recommended to stabilize the spine and prevent further degeneration. This procedure involves joining two or more vertebrae using bone grafts or metal hardware, allowing them to fuse together over time.

Spinal fusion can relieve symptoms and provide long-term stability, but it may limit flexibility in the fused area.

6. Lifestyle Modifications

To manage cervical myelopathy and prevent further exacerbation, certain lifestyle modifications can be beneficial.

Maintaining good posture, avoiding repetitive neck movements or activities that strain your spine, and engaging in regular exercise can help improve overall spine health and reduce the risk of symptom recurrence.

7. Assistive Devices

Assistive devices, such as neck braces or collars, can provide temporary relief by restricting movement and providing support to the neck. These devices can help stabilize the spine and reduce pressure on the spinal cord.

However, it’s important to use them under the guidance of a healthcare professional to prevent muscle atrophy or dependency.

8. Acupuncture

Some patients find relief from cervical myelopathy symptoms through acupuncture treatment. This traditional Chinese therapy involves inserting thin needles into specific body points to stimulate the flow of energy and promote healing.

While research on the effectiveness of acupuncture for cervical myelopathy is limited, many patients report reduced pain and improved mobility after treatment.

9. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care aims to restore spinal alignment and improve overall spinal health through manual adjustments or manipulations.

While chiropractic treatment may not directly address the underlying cause of cervical myelopathy, it can help alleviate associated pain and improve range of motion.

10. Weight Management

Excess weight puts added strain on the spine, increasing the risk of developing or exacerbating cervical myelopathy symptoms.

Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help alleviate stress on the spinal cord, reduce inflammation, and improve overall spine health.