The simplest definition of cervical stenosis is the compression of the spinal canal. When this malady occurs, both the nerves and the spinal cords become tensioned. The body becomes exposed to high risks of Myelopathy or Radiculopathy.
When combined together, these two maladies can cause a dangerous damage in the nerves and the spinal cords. This malady is referred to as myeloradiculopathy. There are various causes behind the cervical stenosis and the shrinkage of the spine. Among these reasons we can find abnormal bone expansion due to the chronic break down in the joints. Another reason is expansion of the ligament and small pedicles. Other factors are the ossification of the ligament and rheumatoid arthritis.
Generally the symptoms that declare the presence of this malady are pain sensation in the neck, numbness in the arm and unpleasant tingling sensation from the neck and down to the back.
For other patients, these symptoms can even be worse. The patient will start having a weakness sensation in the arms and a loss of control over the hand. He may even lose control over his bladder and bowel. This is always accompanied with a body imbalance and difficulties in movement and especially walking.
One characteristic about these symptoms is that they don’t get worse. They do not change or aggravate. Some patients do not experience any unpleasant symptoms at all. But in all cases seeing a specialized doctor is necessary. It needs to be done just after noticing the very first symptoms or body changes.
What the patient needs to keep in mind is that the degree of the symptoms has nothing to do with the treatment. Don’t think that your case is out of control just because the symptoms are very severe and painful. Whatever the degree of your malady is, it still can be cured if you stick to the medical and physical treatment. In fact, researches have proved that most of the cervical stenosis cases responded perfectly to the treatment. Before starting any treatment, the doctor will explain its proprieties and its effects.
Few rare cases don’t respond to the treatment so in this case surgical intervention becomes necessary. The surgery can take place on the front or the back side of the neck. It is divided into two forms: anterior cervical fusion or posterior laminectom. Your doctor will explain which form is the most suitable to your case depending on the damage location. Only your doctor can help you cure your malady within the best conditions and with the minimal risks.