Myelopathy

What is Myelopathy?

Myelopathy is an injury to the spinal cord that is caused by severe compression. This condition can lead to a variety of neurological deficits that can significantly hinder your ability to complete everyday tasks, affecting your quality of life. Anyone can develop myelopathy, but it is more common in individuals over the age of 55, as its main cause is age-related disc degeneration. There are three types of myelopathy: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. Cervical myelopathy occurs in the neck, thoracic myelopathy occurs in the middle and upper back region, and lumbar myelopathy occurs in the lower back.

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What Causes Myelopathy?

Myelopathy is a serious neurological condition stemming from injury to the spinal cord. Myelopathy can develop as a result of a spinal injury, degenerative disc disease, or any catalyst that compresses the spinal cord. Common causes can include:

• Herniated Discs: Discs that bulge or rupture can press on the spinal cord leading to damage or injury.
• Spinal Stenosis: Condition that is characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal which can compress the spinal cord.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, our spinal discs can change and wear down, affecting spinal cord function.
• Trauma: Injuries to the spine, such as fractures or dislocations, can damage the spinal cord.
• Tumors: Abnormal growths in or around the spinal cord can cause compression.
• Infections: Conditions like epidural abscesses or discitis can lead to spinal cord inflammation and damage.

Symptoms of Myelopathy

Symptoms of myelopathy can depend on what part of your spine is affected, as each area contains different nerves that control different parts of the body. Common symptoms can include:

• Pain in your neck or back.
• Tingling, numbness or weakness in your arms, hands, legs or feet.
• Difficulty with fine motor skills.
• Balance or coordination issues.
• Changes to reflexes in your extremities.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control.

What Our Patients Are Saying

We are dedicated to delivering expert and compassionate care at SpineCare of NY. Check out our reviews to hear the stories of our incredible patients.  

Dr. Hughes and his entire staff were professional, caring and courteous. Dr. Hughes gave me great advice on how to move forward after my spine surgery. I would recommend Dr. Hughes highly. I appreciate his care and concern.

Lisa C.

Great experience. Doctor Hughes is an extraordinary doctor. After my surgery, I am a new person. All staff are excellent and caring. Nurses are the best, they treated me like a queen. I am truly grateful!

Doris O.

Dr. Hughes and his staff are outstanding!!! I had a microdiscectomy-Laminectomy surgery. My pain prior to surgery was at a 10. I felt immediate relief post surgery and now pain free. I can’t thank Dr. Hughes and his staff enough! I’m back to the gym and playing tennis 3x a week.

Patrick O.

Had an excellent experience with HSS Spine Department. Dr. Sama was outstanding. He took time and explained everything to me and my wife. Loved his bedside manner and professionalism. So happy I came from New Jersey to see him. His staff was also outstanding to deal with.

Thomas M.

How is Myelopathy Diagnosed?

At SpineCare of NY, myelopathy will be diagnosed using a combination of comprehensive diagnostic methods. As myelopathy shares symptoms with other common spine conditions, a thorough examination is required to accurately diagnose the condition. This will start with a review of your medical history and any past injuries. A physical exam will be done to assess neurological function and to locate your pain. Imaging tests, like MRI or CT scans, are used to visualize the spinal cord and identify any compression, degeneration, or structural abnormalities causing symptoms. Additional tests, like X-rays or myelography, may be employed to further assess spinal alignment and the extent of any damage.

How is Myelopathy Treated?

Myelopathy treatment depends on its severity and the underlying cause but generally includes both non-surgical and surgical options. Non-surgical treatments may involve physical therapy to strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility, and relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage symptoms. For more severe cases or when non-surgical methods are insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary. This could include procedures like microsurgical decompression surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or spinal fusion to stabilize the spine. The goal of treatment at SpineCare of NY is to alleviate symptoms, prevent further neurological damage, and improve overall function the first time using a minimally invasive approach.

Schedule a Consultation

The physicians at SpineCare of NY are dedicated to providing the most advanced and up-to-date solutions to your spinal condition by continuing to engage in ongoing research. We are affiliated with HSS, Hospital for Special Surgery, the number one ranked orthopedic hospital in the United States, ensuring you are in capable hands throughout the entirety of your spinal health journey. To schedule a consultation and learn more about myelopathy, head to our website and fill out an online contact form.