Myelopathy
Myelopathy refers to compression of the spinal cord, which can affect balance, coordination and hand function, and may progress if left untreated.
At Total Spine Health, myelopathy is assessed carefully to identify the cause of spinal cord compression and provide clear advice on the most appropriate next steps.
AT A GLANCE
- Specialist assessment of spinal cord compression
- Focus on early diagnosis and careful monitoring
- Clear advice on scans, risks and treatment options
- Surgical and non-surgical management where appropriate
Understanding myelopathy
Specialist assessment for spinal cord compression
Myelopathy occurs when the spinal cord is compressed, most commonly in the neck. This can interfere with the signals between the brain and the body, leading to symptoms affecting movement, coordination and sensation.
Unlike simple nerve irritation, myelopathy can be progressive. Early assessment is important to understand the cause and determine whether monitoring or treatment is required.
What is myelopathy?
Understanding spinal cord compression
Myelopathy refers to dysfunction of the spinal cord due to compression or narrowing within the spinal canal. It is most often seen in the cervical spine but can occur elsewhere.
As the spinal cord is responsible for transmitting signals to and from the brain, compression can affect multiple areas of the body, particularly coordination, balance and hand function.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
Symptoms often linked to myelopathy
Symptoms can develop gradually and may be subtle at first. They often affect coordination and fine motor control rather than just causing pain.
- reduced balance or unsteadiness
- difficulty with coordination
- clumsiness in the hands
- reduced dexterity or grip
- changes in walking pattern
- numbness or altered sensation in the hands or legs
- weakness in the arms or legs
COMMON CAUSES
Conditions we assess and treat
Myelopathy is usually caused by narrowing or structural changes affecting the spinal cord.
WHEN TO SEEK HELP
When specialist spinal advice may be helpful
Myelopathy can progress over time, so early assessment is important, particularly if symptoms are affecting coordination or function
- balance or walking is becoming unsteady
- hand coordination is worsening
- fine motor tasks are becoming difficult
- weakness is developing
- symptoms are gradually worsening
- there is concern about spinal cord involvement
Important note
Urgent medical assessment is important if there is rapidly worsening weakness, loss of coordination, loss of bladder or bowel control, or significant changes in mobility.
DIAGNOSIS AND ASSESSMENT
How myelopathy is assessed
Assessment includes a detailed discussion of symptoms, neurological examination and imaging to assess the spinal cord.
- balance and coordination assessment
- hand function and dexterity
- muscle strength and reflexes
- sensory changes
- pattern and progression of symptoms
Investigations may include:
- MRI scan to assess spinal cord compression
- X-rays to assess alignmen
- CT scan where needed
- review of previous imaging
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment for myelopathy
Treatment depends on the cause, severity and progression of symptoms.
Monitoring
In mild or stable cases, careful monitoring may be appropriate.
Non-surgical management
Physiotherapy and supportive care may help maintain function, although they do not address spinal cord compression directly.
Surgical treatment
Surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and prevent progression, particularly where symptoms are worsening.
SELF-CARE AND PRACTICAL ADVICE
Practical steps that may help
Where myelopathy is present, it is important to avoid activities that increase risk of falls or further injury.
- take care with balance and mobility
- avoid high-risk activities
- maintain general strength and mobility
- follow medical advice closely
- seek review if symptoms change
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about myelopathy
What is myelopathy?
It is a condition where the spinal cord is compressed, affecting movement, coordination and function.
Is myelopathy serious?
It can be, particularly if symptoms are progressing, which is why early assessment is important.
Do I need surgery?
Not always, but surgery is often considered if there is evidence of spinal cord compression and worsening symptoms.
Can it improve on its own?
Some symptoms may stabilise, but spinal cord compression does not usually resolve without treatment.
RELATED CONDITIONS
Conditions linked with myelopathy
RELATED TREATMENTS
Treatment pathways that may be relevant
- Spinal surgery
- Diagnostic assessment
- Physiotherapy
- Monitoring and follow-up
