The term cervical myelopathy refers to damage to the spinal cord in the cervical (neck) region. It is a degenerative condition that occurs most frequently in individuals over the age of 50. It is essentially the result of narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck due to degenerative changes, which disrupts the normal blood supply and leads to spinal cord damage.Causes of Cervical Myelopathy
The most common causes of this condition include:
- Age-related degeneration
- Pathological changes in the cervical spine
- Intervertebral disc herniation
- Presence of a tumor
- Cervical kyphosis and other spinal deformities
- Cervical trauma
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Other disorders affecting the cervical region.
Symptoms of Cervical Myelopathy
Cervical myelopathy is typically accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Pain
- Stiffness in cervical spine
- Weakness and numbness in the hands, which can make fine motor tasks difficult
- Difficulty walking and general mobility issues
- Bladder and/or bowel dysfunction
- Sexual dysfunction.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Cervical Myelopathy
The diagnosis of cervical myelopathy requires an MRI scan of the cervical spine. Based on the imaging results and a confirmed diagnosis, the treating physician determines the most appropriate treatment approach.The treatment of cervical myelopathy is typically surgical, involving decompression of the spinal cord either through an anterior or posterior surgical approach, depending on the nature and location of the symptoms and spinal cord compression.As an adjunct, and usually after surgery, patients undergo a physical therapy and rehabilitation program to restore mobility and function, particularly to address motor deficits.
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