What is Cervical Myelopathy?
Cervical myelopathy is a serious condition caused by compression of the spinal cord in the cervical (neck) region. It is the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in adults over 55 and represents a medical urgency — delayed treatment can result in permanent, irreversible neurological damage.
The compression most commonly results from cervical spondylosis with disc herniation and bone spur formation, or from ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). As the cord is compressed, the normal blood supply and signal transmission are disrupted.
Urgent: Cervical myelopathy is a progressive condition. Without surgical decompression, neurological deficits typically worsen over time. If you have the symptoms below, seek specialist evaluation promptly.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
- MRI cervical spine — gold standard; shows cord compression, cord signal changes (myelomalacia)
- X-ray — alignment and instability assessment
- CT scan — detailed bone spur and canal measurement
- Neurological examination — mJOA score for myelopathy severity
- EMG/NCS — differentiates from peripheral nerve diseases
Treatment
Surgical decompression is typically recommended for moderate to severe myelopathy (mJOA <15). The goal is to stop progression and achieve neurological recovery.