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Myelopathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Myelopathy
Myelopathy is a condition caused by spinal cord compression that interrupts the nerve pathways responsible for movement, sensation, and body coordination. As the spinal cord compresses, myelopathy symptoms can appear, including pain, numbness, and coordination difficulties. Understanding myelopathy’s early signs and types is essential for prompt diagnosis and management.
If you’re experiencing unusual numbness, tingling, or coordination issues, don’t overlook the signs—these could indicate underlying nerve conditions like myelopathy. Early testing with advanced diagnostics can make a difference in treatment outcomes. Neurology Mobile offers specialized testing, including the SSEP (Somatosensory Evoked Potential) test, designed to assess sensory nerve pathways. Visit Neurology Mobile for a comprehensive evaluation.
Myelopathy Definition and Types
Myelopathy generally refers to disorders arising from compression of the spine. It’s often classified based on location and cause:
- Cervical myelopathy: The most common type, affecting the neck and frequently causing issues in the arms and hands.
- Degenerative myelopathy: Typically associated with age-related spinal degeneration, contributing to narrowed spaces and spinal compression.
- Thoracic and lumbar myelopathy: These affect the mid and lower back, although they’re less common and typically due to injury, tumors, or severe degeneration.
Type of Myelopathy | Affected Region | Common Causes |
Cervical myelopathy | Neck | Disc degeneration, spinal stenosis |
Thoracic myelopathy | Mid-back | Trauma, spinal tumors |
Lumbar myelopathy | Lower back | Degenerative disease, disc herniation |
Causes of Myelopathy
Spinal Compression and Spinal Disorders
Myelopathy commonly results from spinal disorders that cause physical pressure on the spinal cord. This compression of the spine can arise from conditions like spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and spondylosis (spinal arthritis), often causing progressive symptoms. Other spinal injuries or congenital spinal abnormalities can contribute to compression, but degenerative diseases are a primary cause in adults.
Degenerative Diseases and Spinal Cord Compression
Age-related spinal degeneration contributes to degenerative myelopathy, as the vertebrae and intervertebral discs break down, leading to bone spur formation and restricted spinal spaces. This progression can be particularly problematic in the neck, causing cervical myelopathy, which may worsen over time and increase the risk of chronic symptoms.
Recognizing Myelopathy Symptoms
Symptom | Description |
Pain and Stiffness | Discomfort in the neck, back, or affected area |
Numbness/Tingling | Sensations in the arms, hands, or legs |
Weakness | Loss of strength in limbs, affecting movement |
Coordination Issues | Balance problems, difficulty with hand movements |
Bowel/Bladder Dysfunction | In severe cases, loss of control over functions |
Common Myelopathy Symptoms
Typical myelopathy symptoms include pain, stiffness, and sensations of numbness or tingling in the affected area. Cervical myelopathy often impacts hand coordination and arm strength, while thoracic and lumbar myelopathy may involve leg weakness and loss of balance. Severe cases of spinal cord compression symptoms can also affect bowel or bladder function, requiring immediate medical attention.
Spinal Cord Compression Symptoms
Compression-specific symptoms vary with location, but in cervical myelopathy, patients may experience issues with fine motor skills, unsteady gait, or difficulty moving the neck. Lower spine compression affects walking, leg strength, and, in advanced cases, mobility.
Diagnosis of Myelopathy
MRI and Imaging Tests
An MRI is essential in diagnosing myelopathy as it reveals the extent of spinal compression and highlights any soft tissue and nerve involvement. CT scans may also be used for detailed imaging, helping specialists plan effective treatments by visualizing the compressed areas and any spinal deformities.
Electromyogram (EMG) and Nerve Function
An electromyogram (EMG) is used to evaluate electrical nerve response, identifying signal interruptions caused by compression of the spine. By analyzing nerve and muscle function, an EMG can confirm the severity of myelopathy and inform treatment plans. Nerve function tests help determine how much spinal compression has affected nerve transmission to the limbs.
Myelopathy Treatment Options
Cervical Myelopathy Surgery
Cervical myelopathy surgery may be necessary for severe compression cases. Surgical procedures, including decompression surgery, laminectomy, and fusion, help relieve pressure on the spinal cord and aim to restore as much nerve function as possible. Patients experiencing symptoms that worsen with time or cause severe mobility issues may be candidates for surgical intervention to prevent permanent nerve damage.
Decompression and Physical Therapy
For milder cases, decompression and physical therapy are commonly recommended. Physical therapy helps strengthen muscles around the spine and improve flexibility, essential for maintaining mobility and reducing pain. Decompression therapies relieve spinal cord pressure, often alleviating myelopathy symptoms over time.
Treatment Option | Description |
Cervical Myelopathy Surgery | Decompression and stabilization of spinal cord |
Decompression Therapy | Reducing spinal pressure to alleviate symptoms |
Physical Therapy | Exercises for strength, flexibility, and pain management |
Unresolved symptoms such as numbness or weakness can affect your daily life and indicate serious nerve concerns. Take control of your health—get the clarity you need with precise diagnostics from Neurology Mobile. To find answers and the right path to relief, book your SSEP test today at Neurology Mobile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is myelopathy, and what causes it?
Myelopathy is a condition where spinal cord compression affects nerve function, often due to aging-related degeneration, spinal injuries, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis. Cervical myelopathy, involving the neck, is the most prevalent type.
What are the main symptoms of cervical myelopathy?
Symptoms include neck pain, numbness in the arms, tingling, muscle weakness, and coordination issues. Severe cases may affect balance and bladder control.
How is myelopathy diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves MRI scans to identify compression and EMG tests to assess nerve function.
Can physical therapy help with myelopathy?
Yes, physical therapy improves mobility, strength, and flexibility, which can alleviate pain and support daily movement.
When is surgery necessary for myelopathy?
Surgery is considered for severe or worsening symptoms to relieve spinal cord pressure and prevent long-term damage.