Cervical Myelopathy Care in Miami

Cervical myelopathy develops when the spinal cord is compressed in the neck. Common causes include spinal stenosis, arthritic bone spurs, herniated discs, and thickened ligaments. Symptoms may include loss of hand coordination, difficulty with buttons or handwriting, arm or hand numbness, balance problems, leg stiffness, frequent falls, or changes in walking. Because spinal cord dysfunction may progress, early evaluation is important.

 

Observation, medication, and physical therapy may help manage pain in mild or carefully selected cases, but these treatments do not remove pressure from the spinal cord. Patients who are observed require close clinical follow-up so that neurological changes can be recognized promptly.

 

Surgery is often recommended when spinal cord compression produces meaningful or progressive neurological symptoms. The objective is to create more room for the spinal cord and reduce the risk of further decline. Depending on the location and number of levels involved, treatment may include ACDF, corpectomy, cervical disc replacement in selected patients, laminoplasty, or posterior decompression with fusion. The operative approach is individualized according to alignment, stability, and the location of compression.