Overview
Cervical myelopathy is a dysfunction of the spinal cord which occurs from direct compression of the spinal cord. This results in certain changes in the body’s function including weakness, numbness, worsening hand dexterity and balance issues. Examples of symptoms that a patient may exhibit include worsening handwriting, trouble buttoning shirts or opening jars, dropping objects, numbness in the hands, weakness in the arms, difficulty walking in a straight line, falls.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of cervical myelopathy is first suspected based on a careful history and physical exam. Ultimately, MRI is the gold standard study for assessing the spinal cord and diagnosing cervical myelopathy. A CT scan may also be used however it is less sensitive than MRI.
Treatment
Unlike most conditions affecting the spine, conservative treatment is typically ineffective at treating cervical myelopathy. As a result, we often recommend decompression of the spinal cord through surgical intervention to ensure the best outcomes. It is important to understand that without decompression of the spinal cord, the symptoms of myelopathy can worsen over time and may become permanent.
