Cervical Stenosis

Cervical stenosis is a medical condition that refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck (cervical spine). This narrowing can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, potentially causing various symptoms and complications. Cervical stenosis can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired (developing later in life) and is often associated with aging and degenerative changes, or trauma, to the spine.

Common causes of cervical stenosis include:

1. Degenerative changes: As people age, the intervertebral discs in the cervical spine can degenerate, leading to the loss of disc height and the development of bone spurs (osteophytes). These changes can narrow the spinal canal.
2. Herniated discs: A herniated or bulging disc in the cervical spine can also contribute to spinal canal narrowing if it presses on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
3. Trauma: Injury or trauma to the neck can result in cervical stenosis if it causes damage to the bones, ligaments, or discs in the cervical spine.  These injured elements can be displaced and place pressure on the nerves or spinal cord.
4. Congenital factors: Some individuals are born with a narrower spinal canal, which can increase their risk of developing symptoms of cervical stenosis later in life.

The symptoms of cervical stenosis can vary widely and may include neck pain, numbness or tingling in the arms or hands, weakness in the limbs, difficulty walking, and problems with balance and coordination. In severe cases, cervical stenosis can lead to spinal cord compression, which can cause more severe neurological deficits, including severe weakness or even paralysis.

Treatment for cervical stenosis depends on the severity of the condition and the specific symptoms. Common treatment options include:

1. Conservative treatment: Mild cases of cervical stenosis may be managed conservatively. This can include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle modifications to relieve symptoms and improve neck strength and flexibility.
2. Epidural injections: Steroid injections into the cervical spine can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cervical stenosis.
3. Surgery: In more severe cases or when conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options include:
   – Decompression surgery: The removal of bone spurs, damaged discs, or other structures that are compressing the spinal cord or nerve roots.
   – Spinal fusion: In cases where instability is a concern, spinal fusion may be performed to stabilize the affected area of the cervical spine.

The choice of treatment depends on the patient’s individual circumstances, including the extent of spinal canal narrowing, the severity of symptoms, and the overall health of the patient. At Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine we have orthopedic spine specialists and neurosurgeons who have expertise in treating cervical stenosis.