Cervical Stenosis Treatment
Cervical stenosis is a common cause of neck pain in people, especially older individuals. It occurs when the spinal canal in the upper area of the spine or neck region becomes narrow. This occurrence leads to excess pressure on the spinal cord. Some people may be born with cervical spinal stenosis, while others may experience it as part of the natural process of ageing. This is most likely to occur at around the age of 50 years due to continuous use of the spine. Most individuals with cervical stenosis may have some kind of injury or trauma to the neck area. However the symptoms of cervical stenosis may occur months or even years after the trauma.
Cervical spinal stenosis symptoms are varied. Some individuals may experience neck pain and pain or numbness in the arms, shoulders and legs. There may also be problems of balance and gait and clumsiness of the hands. In severe cases, bowel and bladder functioning may be affected. There could also be impairment of overall body function and possibly even paraplegia. Cervical stenosis often results from several factors which together lead to a compression of the spinal cord. Some factors that play a part in the development of cervical stenosis include shorter pedicles, which are the bones that compose the sides of the spinal cord. Degenerative arthritis causes abnormal bone growth and this could contribute to cervical stenosis. Other factors that may lead to spinal stenosis include increase in size of the ligament flavum and rheumatoid arthritis.
Most cases of cervical stenosis do not become aggravated. Therefore many individuals do not experience any progressive symptoms. In some cases, the symptoms may be so mild, that the individual may not feel the need to seek treatment. The treatment for cervical stenosis generally involves medication and physiotherapy. In case non-surgical treatments do not work, surgery may become necessary. There are various surgical methods that help to treat this condition. These methods aim to widen the spinal canal, thereby relieving pressure on the spinal cord. The cause of the compression may also be trimmed. Home care involves adequate rest. Pain medications may also have to be continued for a specified period of time. The doctor will also advise the individual on how he should slowly increase activity. Hot or cold compresses are known to help in alleviating pain. Care should be taken to avoid any injury to the neck and head area.
