Neck pain is common, and in many cases, it can be managed with conservative treatment. But when neck symptoms are accompanied by hand weakness, numbness, difficulty with balance, or changes in coordination, something more serious may be happening.
Cervical myelopathy occurs when the spinal cord becomes compressed in the neck. Unlike a pinched nerve that may cause pain or tingling along a single arm, spinal cord compression can affect multiple areas of the body and may progressively interfere with strength, coordination, walking, and everyday activities.
For patients experiencing these symptoms, evaluation by a neurosurgeon in Los Angeles can help determine what is causing the compression and whether treatment is necessary.
The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae in the neck that surround and protect the spinal cord. Over time, degenerative changes can narrow the spinal canal and place pressure on the cord.
Common causes include cervical stenosis, herniated discs, bone spurs, thickened ligaments, and other age-related changes within the cervical spine.
Because these changes often develop gradually, the first symptoms of cervical myelopathy can be surprisingly subtle.
Cervical myelopathy does not always begin with severe neck pain. Some patients may experience little neck discomfort at all.
Instead, early symptoms can include:
These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for normal aging, arthritis, or a problem involving the hands themselves.
As spinal cord compression progresses, however, neurological symptoms may become more noticeable. That is why new or worsening problems with strength, coordination, or balance deserve medical attention.
One important distinction is that cervical myelopathy involves the spinal cord, not simply the muscles or joints of the neck.
Muscular neck pain may improve with rest, physical therapy, medication, or other conservative measures. Cervical myelopathy requires closer evaluation because prolonged spinal cord compression may lead to worsening neurological function.
A spine surgeon in Los Angeles will typically consider the patient’s symptoms, neurological examination, and imaging together rather than relying on any one factor.
Evaluation typically begins with a detailed medical history and neurological examination. Strength, reflexes, sensation, coordination, and walking may all be assessed.
An MRI of the cervical spine can then provide detailed images of the spinal cord and surrounding structures. It can help identify cervical stenosis, herniated discs, and other sources of spinal cord compression.
Importantly, an abnormal MRI does not automatically mean surgery is necessary. Treatment decisions depend on the degree of compression, the patient’s symptoms, neurological findings, overall health, and whether the condition appears to be progressing.
For some patients, particularly those with significant or progressive spinal cord compression, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
The specific procedure depends on the location and cause of the compression. Treatment may involve decompression, cervical disc replacement, fusion, or another surgical approach.
Dr. Luke Macyszyn specializes in advanced and minimally invasive treatment of complex spinal conditions. For patients throughout Los Angeles, Tarzana, Marina Del Rey, and the surrounding communities, the goal is to develop a treatment plan based on both the imaging findings and how the condition is affecting everyday life.
Occasional neck discomfort is common. Progressive hand weakness, loss of coordination, difficulty walking, or worsening balance are different.
Patients experiencing these symptoms should consider a cervical spine evaluation to determine whether spinal cord compression may be responsible.
To better understand your symptoms and determine the right treatment approach, schedule a consultation with Dr. Macyszyn in Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey, or Tarzana today.
