Cervical stenosis is a medical condition where the spinal canal in the neck (cervical spine) becomes narrowed, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Causes of Cervical Stenosis:
- Aging (most common cause)
- Arthritis or degenerative changes in the spine
- Herniated discs
- Bone spurs (osteophytes)
- Spinal injuries
- Congenital spinal canal narrowing (born with a narrow spinal canal)
⚠️ Symptoms:
Not everyone has symptoms, but when present, they may include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Numbness or tingling in arms, hands, or legs
- Weakness in the limbs
- Balance problems
- In severe cases, difficulty walking or bladder/bowel issues (due to spinal cord compression)
🩺 Diagnosis:
- MRI or CT scan to see spinal canal and cord
- X-rays for bone structure
- Neurological exam to assess nerve function
💊 Treatment Options:
Non-surgical:
- Physical therapy
- Medications (NSAIDs, muscle relaxants)
- Steroid injections
Surgical:
- Laminectomy, laminoplasty, or spinal fusion may be considered if nerve compression is severe or symptoms worsen.
