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All you should know: Compressive Myelopathy

About

Compressive myelopathy is a nervous system disorder that is caused because of the arthritic changes in the spinal cord that leads to compression in the spine.

Compressive myelopathy most commonly affects the age group 35-55 (45.7% of the total). (1)
- Requires a medical diagnosis.
- Chronic: Can last for years or lifelong.
- Treatment can help, but not cure.
- Elder people are at risk.
- Treatment options available.
- Laboratory tests, scans, and imaging are always required.

Myelopathy is any deficit related to the spinal cord. The most common form of myelopathy is cervical spondylotic myelopathy, which is a spinal cord compression in the neck area. It can occur in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar area of the spine. It occurs because of the wear and tear of the vertebrae of the spine or any pressure exerted by a mass on it.

Causes

1. Arthritis
2. A ruptured disk
3. Bleeding disorders
4. Bone spurs
5. Autoimmune disorders
6. Spinal trauma
7. Infections in spine
8. Any degenerative changes of spine
9. Cancerous and noncancerous tumors
10. Injury to the spinal cord

Symptoms

Self-diagnosable
People may experience the following symptoms:
- Pain or stiffness in the back, shoulders, limbs, and neck.
- Numbness in limbs.
- Effect on motor skills, coordination.

Treatment

Self-care: Application of ice packs and heating pads and physical exercises help in strengthening the leg muscles and decrease symptoms.

Therapy: Radiation therapy, chemotherapy to shrink tumor, acupuncture, and acupressure is advisable.

Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications help in decreasing swelling and pain.
Specialists: Consult an orthopedic for other concerns. Surgery may be required if conservative treatments fail to work. At mfine, we provide a comprehensive treatment plan for optimum health.