Cervical Spinal Stenosis Discussed

spinal stenosis

The vertebrae are a collection of interconnected bones which forms the cervical spine. The human spinal cord encompasses many of the major nerves and allows the movement of arms and legs, bladder and bowel control and the feeling of sensations.

Cervical Spinal Stenosis is a condition which results when the spinal canal becomes narrowed. The condition is often associated with old age as the discs in the back start to reduce their water content and harden as a result. The discs can become shrunken and may protrude out into the spinal canal. There may also be a possibility of the spinal joints extruding into the spinal canal. A further condition may result known as Cervical Myelopathy as a narrowing of the spinal canal creates pressure on the spinal cord which can have an adverse effect upon the nerve functions.

Strangely enough Cervical Spinal Stenosis often does not have any symptoms. If the condition develops to the stage of Cervical Myelopathy there may be some pain in the neck and arm area, weakness and loss of mobility in these areas. Advanced stages of the disease may produce other symptoms such as incontinence which may be gradual or rapid in onset.

To prevent Cervical Spinal Stenosis and Cervical Myelopathy early detection is vital. This is done by physical examination and diagnostic testing as well as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) scanning which will give a good indication of the degree of narrowing of the spinal canal. Other tests may be undertaken for a more complete diagnosis.

Possible treatments for Cervical Spinal Stenosis.

Treatment will vary depending on how pronounced the condition is. This may be by operative or non operative procedures. When patients are very fragile and suffer pain in the affected areas along with a difficulty in walking, surgery will be required. Physical therapy may be beneficial in less severe cases. Patients should be aware that physical therapy is not a cure and will not reverse the narrowing of the spinal canal. It is more aimed at pain management and the ability to control pain and function effectively without having to resort to surgery.

The initial physical therapy is aimed at increasing general flexibility in the extremities and in the neck and arms and legs which usually involves stretching exercise. Increased circulation and endurance can be achieved with swimming and treadmill type exercise and others of the cardiovascular type. These exercises should also in help to increase overall strength and can be performed with the therapist or at home. The treatment should be undertaken for at least three months and there is no improvement after this period then surgery may be recommended.