Myelopathy is a condition that occurs when the spinal cord becomes compressed, which can interfere with normal nerve signals traveling between the brain and the body. This compression can lead to a variety of neurologic symptoms, including weakness, numbness, coordination problems, and difficulty walking.
Because the spinal cord controls many important functions throughout the body, myelopathy can affect movement, sensation, and balance. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to help prevent progression of symptoms.
At Ocean Spine, Dr. Pranay Patel evaluates patients with symptoms of spinal cord compression and develops individualized treatment plans based on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.
Understanding the Spinal Cord
The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs through the spinal canal and connects the brain to the rest of the body. It allows signals to travel between the brain and the muscles, organs, and sensory nerves.
When the spinal cord becomes compressed, these signals may not travel properly. This can result in symptoms that affect both movement and sensation.
Types of Myelopathy
Myelopathy is typically classified based on the area of the spine where spinal cord compression occurs.
Cervical Myelopathy
Cervical myelopathy occurs in the neck (cervical spine) and is the most common form of myelopathy. It is often caused by age-related changes in the spine such as degenerative disc disease, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis. Symptoms may include weakness, numbness, tingling in the arms or hands, problems with balance, and difficulty with fine motor skills.
Thoracic Myelopathy
Thoracic myelopathy occurs in the middle portion of the spine. It is less common than cervical myelopathy and may result from conditions such as herniated discs, spinal trauma, tumors, or bone spurs. Symptoms often develop gradually and may include leg weakness, numbness, coordination problems, and difficulty walking.
Lumbar Region Involvement
True lumbar myelopathy is uncommon because the spinal cord typically ends near the upper lumbar spine. However, compression of nerves in this region can still produce symptoms that affect the lower back, legs, and overall mobility.
Causes and Symptoms of Myelopathy
Myelopathy can develop from several different spinal conditions. In many cases, it occurs gradually as a result of age-related degeneration of the spine. Other causes may include spinal stenosis, herniated discs, bone spurs, trauma, tumors, infections, or inflammatory conditions.
Common symptoms of myelopathy may include:
- Neck, back, or extremity pain
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
- Abnormal reflexes in the extremities
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Trouble with fine motor skills such as writing or buttoning clothing
- Changes in bowel or bladder control in more advanced cases
Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the spinal cord compression.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Myelopathy
To diagnose myelopathy, Dr. Patel will perform a thorough medical history and physical examination. Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans may be used to evaluate the spine and identify areas where the spinal cord may be compressed. In some cases, additional tests such as myelography or electromyography (EMG) may be recommended.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Many patients initially benefit from conservative treatments, which may include medications, physical therapy, or spinal injections.
When significant spinal cord compression is present or symptoms continue to worsen, surgical treatment may be recommended to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and help prevent further neurologic damage.
When to Seek Evaluation
At Ocean Spine, Dr. Pranay Patel provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for patients experiencing symptoms related to spinal cord compression and other spinal conditions. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s symptoms, imaging findings, and overall health.
If you are experiencing persistent symptoms such as numbness, weakness, problems with coordination, or difficulty walking, an evaluation may help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.
However, if symptoms develop suddenly or rapidly worsen—particularly weakness, difficulty walking, loss of coordination, or changes in bowel or bladder control—seek immediate medical attention, as these symptoms may indicate significant spinal cord compression requiring urgent evaluation.