Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Cervical spinal stenosis is a medical condition in which the spinal canal in the neck narrows, which can lead to compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. This can cause various neurological symptoms and can even result in long-term damage if not addressed.

Causes of Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Cervical spinal stenosis can be caused by various factors, including:

Age-related degeneration: The degeneration of spinal discs, ligaments, and joints due to aging is a common cause of cervical spinal stenosis.

Trauma: Injuries such as falls or car accidents can cause damage to the spinal column, leading to spinal stenosis.

Herniated discs: A herniated or bulging disc can narrow the spinal canal, leading to spinal stenosis.

Tumors: Abnormal growths can develop in the spinal cord or surrounding tissue, compressing the spinal canal and causing spinal stenosis.

Congenital conditions: Some people may be born with a narrow spinal canal or an abnormality in the structure of their vertebrae, leading to spinal stenosis.

Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Cervical spinal stenosis can cause various symptoms, including:

• Neck pain: This is the most common symptom of cervical spinal stenosis, and it can be accompanied by stiffness and discomfort.
• Numbness or tingling: Patients may experience numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, or legs.
• Weakness: Cervical spinal stenosis can cause muscle weakness in the arms or legs, which can interfere with daily activities.
• Loss of balance and coordination: This is a common symptom of severe spinal stenosis, and it can increase the risk of falls.
• Bladder or bowel problems: In severe cases, spinal stenosis can cause issues with bladder and bowel control.

Treatment for Cervical Spinal Stenosis

The treatment for cervical spinal stenosis varies depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be treated with physical therapy and pain management, while severe cases may require surgery.

Physiotherapy: Physical therapy can help improve mobility and reduce pain in patients with cervical spinal stenosis. Physiotherapists may recommend exercises to improve range of motion, strengthen the neck and back muscles, and improve balance and coordination.

Medication: Painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants can help manage pain and discomfort caused by cervical spinal stenosis.

Corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroids can be injected into the affected area to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to alleviate the pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. Surgery can involve decompressing the spinal canal or fusing the affected vertebrae.

Lifestyle changes: Patients with cervical spinal stenosis can benefit from making certain lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and engaging in low-impact exercises.

In conclusion, cervical spinal stenosis is a condition that can cause various neurological symptoms, including neck pain, numbness, and weakness. Treatment options include physiotherapy, medication, corticosteroid injections, surgery, and lifestyle changes. If you experience any symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.

If you have any questions or would like to speak to a therapist about cervical spinal stenosis please call us at 03 9836 1126.

Resources:

Cervical Spinal Stenosis – Mayo Clinic, Cervical Stenosis – Cedars-Sinai
Cervical Spinal Stenosis – American Academy