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Conditions

Spine surgery · Spine and nerves

Degenerative cervical myelopathy

Recognise spinal cord compression in the neck and the need for prompt assessment.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Degenerative cervical myelopathy is spinal cord injury caused by age-related structures compressing the cord in the neck.

Possible symptoms

It may cause clumsy hands, loss of dexterity, tingling, limb weakness or heaviness, poor balance, falls and difficulty walking.

Causes and associated factors

Changes in discs, joints, ligaments and bony growths can narrow the space around the cervical spinal cord.

Diagnosis

The combination of symptoms and neurological signs on examination should raise suspicion.

Tests

Cervical MRI looks for cord compression and injury; other tests may exclude mimics and help plan treatment.

Course of the condition

The condition can progress and leave lasting disability; delayed diagnosis increases that risk.

Care options

A spine team assesses severity; decompression surgery mainly aims to stop deterioration, and recovery varies.

When to consult

Seek prompt assessment if your hands become clumsy, balance or walking changes, or several limbs are affected.

Urgent help

Rapid worsening, inability to walk, genital numbness, or new bladder or bowel dysfunction requires emergency care.

Questions for your doctor

  • Which spinal structure explains my symptoms?
  • Which tests are actually useful?
  • Which non-surgical options can we try?
  • When would an operation be discussed?
  • Which neurological signs require emergency care?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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