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Cervical Myelopathy


About this topic


Cervical myelopathy happens when there is damage to the spinal cord in the neck. Most often, there is a narrowing or pinching of the spinal nerves called a stenosis. You may not have pain or any signs if you have spinal stenosis. Having pain because of spinal stenosis means you are likely to have cervical myelopathy. Signs may happen fast with an injury. You may also have a slow worsening of a long-term problem. Myelopathy is most often seen in people 50 years of age or older. ‚  


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What are the causes?


  • Age
  • Slipped disc
  • Injury to the spine
  • Bone spurs
  • Tumors in the spinal cord

What can make this more likely to happen?


  • History of a narrow spinal canal
  • Injury
  • Back problems
  • Straining the spine
  • Decreased blood supply to the spine

What are the main signs?


  • Neck pain
  • Arm pain
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms
  • Weakness, stiffness, or clumsiness in the arms or legs
  • Trouble walking
  • Feeling unsteady on your feet
  • Problems with muscle control like buttoning a shirt
  • Bowel or bladder problems

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. Your doctor may also have you move your neck and arms in certain ways to check your motion and strength. Your doctor may also check the reflexes in your arm. The doctor may order: ‚  
  • X-rays
  • CT or MRI scan
  • Nerve studies

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


  • Treating cause
  • Helping with pain
  • Physical therapy (PT)
  • Exercises
  • Heat or ultrasound therapy
  • Electrical stimulation
  • Surgery if there is pressure on the spinal cord

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Help with pain and swelling
  • Relax muscles

The doctor may give you a shot of an anti-inflammatory drug called a corticosteroid to help with swelling. Be sure to talk with your doctor about the effects of this shot. ‚  

What problems could happen?


  • Nerve problems
  • Loss of control over your bladder or bowels
  • Paralysis

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


Cervical myelopathy is difficult to prevent. These steps may help you from having accidents or strains. ‚  
  • Prevent falls and accidents. Make your home as safe as possible for yourself. Remove small rugs and items that may be a tripping hazard.
  • Stay away from contact sports if you have disc disease with pressure on the spinal cord.
  • Stay active and work out to keep your muscles strong and flexible.
  • Warm up slowly and stretch before you work out. Use good ways to train, such as slowly adding to how far you run. Do not work out if you are overly tired. Take extra care if working out in cold weather.
  • Use good posture. Do not slouch.
  • Keep a healthy weight to avoid putting too much stress on your spine.

Where can I learn more?


American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ‚  
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00539 ‚  
North American Spine Society ‚  
http://www.spine.org/Documents/cervical_stenosis_2006.pdf ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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