Doctor evaluating patient symptoms for Cervical Spinal Stenosis diagnosis at Mountain Spine & Orthopedics
Condition/Condition Details

Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Protecting Spinal Cord Health in the Neck

Experiencing Cervical Spinal Stenosis Pain?

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What is Cervical Spinal Stenosis?

Chronic compression in the cervical spine can lead to myelopathy, a condition causing gait imbalance and hand clumsiness. Our specialists perform comprehensive evaluations to identify the levels of compression and prevent irreversible damage.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Symptoms of cervical stenosis can be subtle at first but may include:

  • Neck stiffness and aching
  • Radiating burning or electric-like pain in the arms
  • Hand numbness or difficulty with fine motor skills
  • Leg weakness and balance problems
  • Shock-like sensations when bending the neck
Illustration of narrowing in the cervical spinal canal

Causes and Risks of Cervical Spinal Stenosis

The risk increases with age, primarily due to osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease. Previous neck trauma or a congenitally narrow canal can also contribute to symptomatic stenosis.

Conservative Care Strategies for Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Initial management focuses on reducing inflammation and protecting the spinal cord.
  • Physical therapy for neck stabilization
  • Activity modification to avoid strain
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Image-guided cervical injections
  • Neurological monitoring

Motion-Preserving Surgery for Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Advanced procedures like laminoplasty or ACDF can decompress the spinal cord while maintaining neck mobility and stability.
Learn More About Acdf Surgery

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Locations Offering Evaluation

Our board-certified specialists offer cervical spinal stenosis evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the warning signs of cervical spinal stenosis?

Warning signs include neck pain, numbness in the hands, and balance coordination issues. Severe cases may cause 'myelopathy,' characterized by difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning a shirt.

Can cervical stenosis be cured without surgery?

Stenosis is a structural narrowing that cannot be cured non-surgically, but symptoms can be managed. Targeted exercises and injections can relieve inflammation, but they do not widen the spinal canal.

How is cervical stenosis treated surgically?

Common surgeries include ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion) to remove the disc pressing on the cord, or Posterior Cervical Laminectomy to remove the back of the vertebra and create more space for the spinal cord.

Is walking difficult with cervical stenosis?

Yes, if the spinal cord is compressed (myelopathy), it can affect gait and balance, making patients feel unsteady or 'drunk' when walking, even if they have no leg pain.

What happens if cervical stenosis is left untreated?

If untreated, severe cervical stenosis can lead to permanent nerve damage or paralysis. Progressive weakness and loss of hand function are signs that surgery should not be delayed.