- Spine
- Cervical Stenosis
- Herniated Discs
- Myeloplathy
- Spondylolisthesis
- Cervical Fractures
- Neck Strains & Sprains
- Sports-Related Spine Injuries
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF)
- Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF)
- Cervical Laminectomy & Fusion
- Kyphoplasty
- Minimally Invasive Microdiscectomy
- Laminectomy / Hemilaminectomy
- Posterior Spinal Fusion
- Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
- Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF)
- Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)
What Is Myelopathy?
Myelopathy is a term used to describe dysfunction of the spinal cord caused by compression or damage within the spinal canal. This compression can interfere with the transmission of signals between the brain and the body, leading to pain, weakness, coordination problems, and other neurological symptoms.
Myelopathy most commonly occurs in the cervical spine (neck), but it can also affect other areas of the spine. Degenerative changes, trauma, tumors, or other conditions may narrow the spinal canal and place pressure on the spinal cord, resulting in neurological impairment.
Symptoms of Myelopathy
Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time. Common symptoms include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Difficulty walking
- Numbness or tingling in arms or hands
- Weakness in the upper or lower extremities
- Hand clumsiness or difficulty with fine motor tasks
- Difficulty performing daily activities
These symptoms occur when spinal cord compression disrupts normal nerve signaling throughout the body.
Common Causes
Myelopathy can occur from several underlying conditions affecting the spinal cord, including:
- Degenerative changes of the spine
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated discs
- Osteoarthritis of the spine
- Trauma or spinal injury
- Tumors or masses
- Infections affecting the spine
- Reduced blood flow to the spinal cord
These conditions may narrow the spinal canal and compress the spinal cord, leading to neurological symptoms.
How Myelopathy Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a physical and neurological examination. Your specialist will assess reflexes, coordination, strength, and sensation. Imaging studies may include:
- X-rays
- MRI
- CT scan
- Myelogram
- Nerve conduction studies
These tests help identify spinal cord compression and determine the severity of the condition.
Myelopathy Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of spinal cord compression and progression of symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Conservative treatment may be recommended for mild symptoms, including:
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- Pain management injections
- Bracing in select cases
These treatments focus on reducing inflammation and relieving symptoms.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended when symptoms are progressive or severe. Surgical options may include:
- Spinal decompression surgery
- Laminectomy
- Discectomy
- Spinal fusion
- Stabilization procedures
Surgical treatment aims to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and prevent further neurological decline.
Recovery After Myelopathy Treatment
Recovery varies depending on severity and treatment type. Mild cases may improve with conservative care. Surgical recovery may take several months and often includes rehabilitation to restore strength, balance, and mobility.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent permanent neurological damage.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
You should seek evaluation if you experience:
- Progressive weakness
- Difficulty walking or balancing
- Hand clumsiness
- Numbness or tingling in extremities
- Persistent neck pain
- Loss of coordination
Prompt evaluation helps prevent worsening spinal cord compression.
Why Choose TMI Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Surgery
TMI provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for myelopathy, including conservative care, advanced imaging, and surgical options when necessary. Our spine specialists focus on relieving spinal cord compression and restoring neurological function so patients can return to daily activities safely.
