Cervical myelopathy occurs when spinal cord compression in the neck begins causing neurological symptoms such as hand clumsiness, balance difficulty, weakness or gait instability. Unlike cervical stenosis alone, myelopathy involves the dysfunction of the spinal cord and often requires surgical evaluation. 

Cervical myelopathy is a condition caused by compression of the spinal cord in the neck (cervical spine). Cervical radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression of the cervical nerve roots in the neck. They are most often due to age-related changes such as disc degeneration, arthritis, or spinal stenosis. 

Because the spinal cord controls movement and sensation in the arms, legs, and body, pressure on the cord can lead to progressive neurologic symptoms. Similarly, compression of the nerve roots can cause pain, weakness and numbness.  Both may be associated with neck pain and headaches.
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Dr. Ammar Hawasli evaluates and treats patients with cervical myelopathy in Kansas City and North Kansas City, offering both surgical and non-surgical treatment options depending on the severity of symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Cervical Myelopathy

Symptoms often develop gradually and may include:
Hand clumsiness or difficulty with fine motor tasks
Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
Difficulty with balance or walking
Weakness in the arms or legs
Neck pain or stiffness
Changes in bowel or bladder function in advanced cases
Many patients first notice problems with hand coordination or balance before recognizing a neck problem.

What Causes Cervical Myelopathy?

The most common causes include:

• Cervical spinal stenosis
• Herniated cervical discs
• Degenerative arthritis of the spine
• Thickening of spinal ligaments
• Bone spurs compressing the spinal cord

These changes narrow the spinal canal and place pressure on the spinal cord.



How is Cervical Myelopathy Is Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves:

• A detailed neurological examination
• MRI imaging of the cervical spine
• Occasionally CT scans or X-rays

MRI allows physicians to see whether the spinal cord is compressed and helps determine the best treatment approach.




What are the treatment Options

Treatment depends on symptom severity, neurological condition and imaging findings. Treatments include nonsurgical treatments and surgery. Dr. Hawasli utilized a large array of nonsurgical and surgical treatments for his patients with cervical spine disorders. Surgical treatments may include cervical disc replacements, laminoplasty, posterior foraminotomies, posterior foraminotomies and discectomies, laminectomy, anterior cervical fusions, hybrid operations, posterior spinal decompression and fusions, and more.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cervical Myelopathy

When is surgery needed for cervical myelopathy?
Surgery is often recommended when spinal cord compression causes weakness, balance problems, hand clumsiness, or progressive neurological symptoms.

Can cervical myelopathy worsen over time?
Yes. In many patients, spinal cord compression gradually worsens and may eventually lead to permanent neurological deficits if untreated. Rarely, patient can suddenly worsen after minor injuries due to an acute spinal cord injury.

What surgery is used to treat cervical myelopathy?
Depending on the anatomy and location of compression, surgery may include ACDF, cervical disc replacement, laminoplasty, or posterior cervical decompression and fusion.

Is cervical myelopathy serious?
Cervical myelopathy is a potentially serious condition because it involves compression of the spinal cord. Early evaluation is important when symptoms develop or if the stenosis is severe enough.

Most New patient consultations are performed directly by Dr. Hawasli so patients receive a surgeon's evaluation from the first visit.

NKC Health Neurosurgery
2750 Clay Edwards Dr,  Ste 410
North Kansas City, MO 64116
Telephone 816-471-8114