Cervical Myelopathy Treatment In Dallas
Cervical myelopathy involves spinal compression in the cervical spine (neck). It is frequently caused by spinal cord compression due to stenosis or the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck. Cervical myelopathy is a serious spine condition that can cause significant and permanent nerve damage if left untreated. Fortunately, conservative treatment methods or cervical myelopathy surgery can help stop its progression.
Cervical Myelopathy Causes
The most common cause of cervical myelopathy is spinal stenosis, which creates pressure on the spinal cord. Some people are born with a narrow spinal cord and may develop myelopathy if it progresses. Herniated discs and bone spurs in the neck can also create pressure on the spinal cord.
In addition, it can also be caused by the ossification (hardening) of the ligaments around the spinal cord. Specifically, the ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) causes soft tissue to slowly turn into bone and become less flexible, creating pressure on the spinal cord.
Some other causes of spinal compression include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis of the neck
- Whiplash injury or cervical spinal trauma
- Spinal infections
- Spinal tumors and cancers
Cervical Myelopathy Symptoms
The primary symptoms of cervical myelopathy include the following:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Reduced range of motion
- Tingling or numbness in the arms, shoulders, or hands
- Loss of coordination in the hands, arms, or legs
- Loss of fine motor skills (i.e., buttoning shirts)
- Handwriting deterioration
Generally, the symptoms develop slowly and progress steadily over time. In some patients, however, the condition may worsen more rapidly. Patients may also experience shooting pain that starts in the neck and travels down the spine.
Cervical Myelopathy Treatment
As an experienced cervical myelopathy surgeon in Dallas, Dr. Barnett takes a conservative approach, such as physical therapy and cervical collar braces, to help patients find relief. However, surgery may be necessary when these options fail to halt its progression or correct the underlying condition.
Fortunately, with advancements in technology and surgical techniques, Dr. Barnett can correct many spine conditions and specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery, which involves less blood loss, smaller incisions, and quicker recovery.
Consult a Cervical Myelopathy Surgeon
Non-surgical treatment techniques can help relieve day-to-day pain and discomfort. However, in some cases, spinal decompression is the most effective way to treat it. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Barnett offers compassionate, personalized treatment for every patient. To learn more about cervical myelopathy treatment in Dallas and Fort Worth, contact Dr. Barnett today.
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What Our Patients Have to Say
From start to finish, Dr. Barnett and his staff were always informative and professional. Dr. Barnett performed my neck surgery and lower back surgery all during a pandemic and everything worked out perfect. Highly recommend Dr. Barnett. Top notch.
-Healthgrades
Contact us to schedule a consultation and let us help you start feeling better today.
Dr. Barnett’s 26 years of experience lends to a level of advice and treatment that will bring an end to your back pain.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and let us help you start feeling better today.
Dr. Barnett’s 26 years of experience lends to a level of advice and treatment that will bring an end to your back pain.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and let us help you start feeling better today.
Dr. Barnett’s 26 years of experience lends to a level of advice and treatment that will bring an end to your back pain.
