Spinal Myelopathy is a neck condition that arises when there’s a pinching or compression of the spine. This condition is caused by compression of the spinal cord, and can result in pain, loss of sensation, or loss of control of certain body parts. Anyone can develop Spinal Myelopathy, but it’s mainly found in people 55 years and older due to the wear and tear your body endures over time. As the disks dehydrate and reduce in size, signs of osteoarthritis can develop.*
At New York Spine Institute, our professional doctors pride themselves on giving high quality care and services to our neck, back and spine patients.
Our medical director, Alexandre B. de Moura, M.D., FAAOS leads our team of experienced doctors who have the knowledge and experience to treat your complex spine disorder.
Our staff speaks a multitude of languages. Some of which include Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German and Russian. We look forward to serving all of our patients needs.
Spinal Myelopathy is a degenerative disease meaning that it can worsen as you age. Although this spinal condition is typically associated with older people, it can present itself in younger individuals as well. For most people, they don’t show any symptoms, however when symptoms do show, it’s typically a pain or stiffness in the neck. Spinal Myelopathy can also be caused by other illnesses even if they don’t cause disc degeneration such as*:
Spinal Myelopathy is caused by the wear and tear that occurs in the spine as a person ages. As you age, the discs in your spine shorten and begin to bulge. As a result, the vertebrae move closer together. In response to this, your body starts forming more bones (bone spurs) around your discs to strengthen them. These bone spurs can stiffen the spine and may also narrow the spinal canal through the pinching and compression of the spinal cord.*
A consultation for spinal myelopathy can be diagnosed with a thorough review of your medical history as well as an MRI through our imaging services. Since the spinal cord carries nerve impulses to various regions in the body, patients with spinal myelopathy can experience a wide variety of symptoms that may include*:
After a review of your medical history and list of symptoms you may receive imaging tests such as an MRI, CT or an X-Ray. There are several types of Spinal Myelopathy. The specific type depends on where the compression is located on the spine. These include:
Depending on the severity of your condition, spinal myelopathy can be treated through various non-surgical treatments. But, if symptoms aren’t relieved, surgery can be an option.* Non surgical treatment options can include:
If a non-invasive approach doesn’t relieve symptoms, one of our doctors may suggest your surgical options. Patients with symptoms consistent with spinal myelopathy can be recommended to have surgery if they do not experience relief. Depending on your symptoms, the location of your problem, and other factors, your spinal specialist could recommend one of four possible procedures, you can also visit our surgeries page to learn more about the procedures and preparation.*
The four surgical procedures commonly performed to treat spinal myelopathy are*:
*The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment will vary by patient and condition. New York Spine Institute does not guarantee certain results.
The New York Spine Institute has offices throughout greater New York City, Long Island, White Plains and Newburgh, NY. Contact us today for a free consultation.
