Our spine is a crucial structure that provides support and protection to our central nervous system. Unfortunately, there are several pathologies that can affect it and cause damage at different levels. It is essential to be alert and take care of our spine, paying attention to any symptoms that may indicate a problem. Persistent pain, muscle weakness, difficulty moving, or changes in sensation are signs that may indicate a spinal condition, and it is crucial to seek medical attention to obtain a diagnosis and receive treatment.
What is cervical myelopathy (CSM)?
Cervical myelopathy is a degenerative disorder of the spinal cord in the neck area. It occurs due to compression of the spinal cord in that region, usually caused by wear and degeneration of the intervertebral discs and joints in the cervical spine.
Symptoms of cervical myelopathy
This condition It can manifest itself through various symptoms that mainly affect the neck, arms and legs.. Among the most common symptoms associated with cervical myelopathy it is possible to mention:
- Neck pain or stiffness: Cervical pain is a characteristic symptom of myelopathy. In many cases, the pain can be persistent and worsen with certain neck positions.
- Muscular weakness: Compression of the spinal cord in the cervical area can cause muscle weakness in the arms and legs. The intensity of the weakness can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of compression.
- Balance and coordination problems: Cervical myelopathy can affect the ability to maintain proper balance and coordination. This can result in difficulties walking in a straight line, frequent tripping, and feelings of instability when making fine hand movements.
- Loss of sensitivity: Spinal cord compression can also cause loss of sensation in the extremities. This manifests itself through sensations of numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs and even the trunk.
It is important to mention that each person may experience a unique combination of symptoms, and that these are not exclusive to cervical myelopathy.
How do I know if I have cervical myelopathy?
If you experience symptoms that could indicate cervical myelopathy, It is essential to seek medical attention to obtain an accurate diagnosis. During your consultation, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask you questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any previous injuries or trauma to your neck. Imaging tests, such as x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans, may be needed. Additionally, an electromyographic (EMG) study may be necessary to evaluate nerve and muscle function in the affected areas.
Causes of cervical myelopathy
Myelopathy can have a variety of causes, but is generally related to wear and tear and degeneration of the spine in the neck region. Some of the common causes of this condition are:
- Herniated disc: When an intervertebral disc herniates and puts pressure on the spinal cord, it can cause cervical myelopathy.
- spinal stenosis: When the spinal canal narrows it can compress the spinal cord and lead to myelopathy.
- Cervical spondylosis: This condition gradually wears down and degenerates the discs and joints in the cervical spine. Over time, this can cause abnormal bone changes, compressing the spinal cord.
- Neck injuries or trauma: Injuries or trauma to the cervical spine, such as vertebral fractures or dislocations, can damage the spinal cord resulting in cervical myelopathy.
- Tumors: Tumors in the spine can put pressure on the spinal cord causing myelopathy.
Treatment of cervical myelopathy (CSM)
Treatment for cervical myelopathy can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's individual response. Generally, two main approaches can be considered: conservative treatment and surgery.
Conservative treatment: In mild or moderate cases, you can opt for a conservative approach that includes:
- Medications: Medications may be prescribed to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physical therapy: specific exercises and physical therapy techniques can help strengthen muscles, improve mobility, and relieve symptoms.
- Occupational therapy: can help you learn techniques to safely perform daily activities and reduce stress on the spine.
- Epidural injections: In some cases, epidural corticosteroid injections may be given to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Surgery: In more severe cases or when symptoms do not improve with conservative treatment, surgery may be considered. Among the surgical options for the treatment of this condition we can find:
- Surgical decompression: This is done to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It may include procedures such as discectomy, laminectomy either foraminotomy.
- Spinal stabilization: In cases where there is instability in the spine, a spinal fusion can be performed to provide stability and relieve compression.
When is cervical myelopathy operated on?
The decision to perform surgery to treat this condition is based on several factors, such as the severity of symptoms, disease progression, and response to conservative treatments. In general, Surgery is considered when the symptoms are severe and affect the patient's quality of life, there is progressive degeneration and evidence of neurological damage, it does not improve with conservative treatment or there is presence of instability in the spine.
What is cervical myelopathy surgery like?
Myelopathy surgery involves several steps to relieve spinal cord compression and stabilize the spine. Among the common steps performed during this surgery we can mention:
- Preparation: before surgery a complete preoperative will be carried out. On the day of surgery, general anesthesia will be administered to keep the patient unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
- Incision: An incision will be made to access the cervical spine.
- Spinal cord decompression: The surgeon will identify the cause of the spinal cord compression and carefully remove or reduce the compression to free the spinal cord and adjacent nerves.
- Spine stabilization: in cases where there is instability, stabilization techniques will be performed, such as spinal fusion where two or more vertebrae are fused using bone grafts, plates, screws or other fixation devices.
- Incision closure: Once the necessary steps have been completed, the incision will be closed with sutures or surgical staples and a bandage will be applied to protect the incision.
Recovery after cervical myelopathy surgery
Recovery after myelopathy surgery involves several aspects that are essential for a successful recovery. Specific instructions regarding permitted activities and avoidance of certain actions should be followed during the recovery period.. Additionally, it may be recommended to participate in physical therapy or rehabilitation to promote optimal recovery and strengthen the affected area. It is essential to properly care for the surgical wound and follow all instructions from the medical team to prevent infections and achieve proper healing.
Where to treat cervical myelopathy (CSM) in Madrid
Cervical myelopathy can have a significant impact on the lives of those who suffer from it. At ICAC, we have a team of specialists dedicated to providing an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment for this condition. We are committed to improving your quality of life with the latest surgical techniques, and we will accompany you every step of the way to your recovery.
At ICAC we specialize in minimally invasive spine surgeries to achieve a successful recovery and restore the quality of life of our patients. Do not doubt ask for a date to start working on your recovery.
26 thoughts on “Mielopatía cervical: todo lo que necesitas saber sobre sus causas, síntomas y tratamiento”
A few months ago, I was diagnosed with poliomyelitis and I am terrible because I am still waiting for surgery
Hoal Christian,
We hope you can receive surgery and treatment as soon as possible.
If you have any questions or queries, you can call us to see one of our specialists.
Greetings and good luck.
If the diagnosis is disc protrusions at C3-4, C5-6 and C6-7 with slight compression of the spinal cord at C3-4, what would be the treatment?
Hello Aracely,
Without knowing your case in detail we cannot give you a diagnosis. Spine cases are very complex and require meticulous analysis before finding treatment. Although minimally invasive surgery may be necessary.
You can make an appointment by calling 91 005 39 00 so that one of our specialists can review your case and see the steps to follow.
Greetings
Dear, along with greeting, this operation is complex, because in Chile 🇨🇱 they refer to what Miss Aracely is talking about there is no operation! It is possible that if treatment exists, Operable Cervical Discopathy Diagnosis.
Meliopathy
Cervicalgia
Hello Marjorie,
You can contact us to schedule an appointment by videoconference and see the possibilities of operability.
You can send us an email or leave us your contact information through our page by doing click here.
Greetings
Good afternoon. I have been intervened on two occasions from C2-C7.
The pain improved but for two years there has been an increase in pain, muscle weakness and numbness in the arms and hands.
Cervical MRI cannot be evaluated due to artifacts. EMG MMSS and normal evoked potentials.
Could it be cervical myelopathy?
Thank you
Hello Eva,
We would have to evaluate your case in consultation.
You can make an appointment by calling 91 005 39 00.
Greetings
A 70-year-old person with osteoporosis can be operated on
Hi Emma,
It depends on many factors to see whether or not surgery is recommended. You have to see your medical history.
Greetings
hello. My father is 85 years old and is bedridden due to c3-c4 narrow channel myelopathy, he has generalized muscle atrophy. The question is whether it is a case to operate.
Hello Fernando,
We would have to carry out an exploration to give you an answer.
You can make an appointment with our team of experts at 91 005 39 00.
Greetings
Hello
For a month now I have had pain and heaviness in my neck and legs, it is difficult for me to walk and I cannot stand.
Hello Zakariae,
Nothing indicates that it is a myelopathy, it can have many other causes.
Go to a specialist for a review.
Greetings
I was diagnosed with cervical myelopathy but they referred me to a social work rheumatologist. I have to wait 6 months because the pain clinic no longer has medication or infiltration to calm me down. Symptoms of leg weakness. If it is private, I would like information to know what I can do. I am 79 years old, I have had a transplant.
kidney, thank you
Hello Ester,
Yes, we are a private center. You can make an appointment by calling 91 005 39 00
Greetings
Good afternoon
I have just been diagnosed with acute compressive myelopathy and mild compression of the outgoing nerve.
at level C-5 C-6 and C-6 C-7
Mild posterior disc bulge without neural compression at C-3 C-4
I have pain in my neck that extends to my left shoulder and arm. I have tingling and both arms go numb.
My doctor tells me that I should have surgery
What do you think?
They suggest me
Hello Encarnacion,
We need to carry out a review of the tests and physical condition to give you a more certain opinion.
Greetings
Good evening, my mother had cervical myelopathy surgery 17 days ago and she still has no mobility in her legs. She does have sensitivity but she still can't walk. Is this normal? Any recommendations please?
Good morning,
It is common for mobility to be restored after cervical myelopathy surgery. Sensitivity is a good sign, but it is important to follow the rehabilitation plan and consult with your doctor to assess your progress and adjust treatment if necessary.
Greetings
Hello, my name is Jose Mirats Molina. I have been operated on for 5 and a half months for severe degenerative cervical myliopathy at 3 levels C5C6C6C7. Before the operation, I was already having problems walking properly with my right leg. After the operation, I went to physical therapy and I still have problems walking normally as before with my right leg. Why is this that I cannot walk normally as before the illness? Does anyone know the answer? My cell phone number is 609343988. Thank you. I hope to hear from you.
Can you give me an answer, thank you.
Bonjour
Is it possible to avoir a consultation (un avis) for example (inhabitant in Corse) and who will be the amount invoiced to discuss the case? Sachant que par ce biais vous ne pouvez pas vraiment donner de réponse autre que de prendre rdv.
You can contact me by email or phone
Cordially.
Hello Jade,
Oui, you can start a rendezvous at a videoconference with our team. Écrivez-nous à info@columna.com And now you have all the information you need for the organizer.
Greetings.
Greetings Doctor, 3 years ago I had a car accident. I was diagnosed with a CT scan of myocardial infarction, cauda equina syndrome, and cervical disc disorders (G99). This is causing various pathologies, including depression and anxiety. Is my diagnosis serious? And it's taken a long time for the scan to work. They're only giving me painkillers.
Hello Johnny,
Thank you for sharing your case. If after three years you've only received painkillers and haven't been fully evaluated by a specialized team, it's completely understandable that you feel frustrated. The conditions you mention usually require close monitoring, specific physical rehabilitation, and, in some cases, surgical interventions, in addition to appropriate psychological support.
You can seek a second medical opinion, preferably from a multidisciplinary team specializing in spine care, who can thoroughly assess your injuries and propose a more comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.
Greetings.