Cervical Myelopathy

Cervical myelopathy is a condition that occurs when the spinal cord in the neck becomes compressed or squeezed due to the narrowing of the spinal canal. The compression can cause a range of symptoms, including:

1. Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms, hands, or fingers
2. Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt or writing
3. Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
4. Neck pain or stiffness
5. Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)

Cervical myelopathy can be caused by a number of factors, including degenerative changes in the spine, such as herniated discs, bone spurs, or osteoarthritis. Other causes may include trauma, tumors, infections, or inflammatory conditions.

The treatment for cervical myelopathy will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In mild cases, conservative treatment options, such as physical therapy or chiropractic care, may be sufficient. More severe cases may require surgery to relieve the compression on the spinal cord.

Physical therapy, chiropractic care, and osteopathy can all be helpful in treating cervical myelopathy. A physical therapist can design an exercise program to help improve range of motion, strength, and balance. A chiropractor can perform adjustments to the spine to help relieve pressure on the nerves. An osteopath can use manual techniques to improve the function of the musculoskeletal system.
Here are five exercises that may be helpful for improving symptoms of cervical myelopathy:

1. Chin tucks: While sitting or standing, gently tuck your chin towards your chest, as if making a double chin. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat 10 times.
2. Shoulder blade squeeze: Sit or stand with your arms at your sides. Squeeze your shoulder blades together, then release. Repeat 10 times.
3. Wall angels: Stand with your back against a wall, with your feet about six inches away. Raise your arms so they’re in a “goalpost” position, with your elbows at a 90-degree angle. Slowly slide your arms up the wall as far as you can, then lower them back down. Repeat 10 times.
4. Neck stretches: Gently tilt your head to the right, bringing your ear towards your shoulder. Hold for a few seconds, then return to center. Repeat on the left side. Do 10 reps on each side.
5. Pelvic tilts: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Flatten your lower back against the floor by contracting your abdominal muscles. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat 10 times.