Cervical Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options

Cervical spinal stenosis can result in compression and injury to the spinal cord and nerve roots of the cervical spine. Treatment for this condition depends on the severity of the symptoms and compression seen on imaging studies.  Treatment options include nonsurgical management, physical therapy, spinal injections and/or surgery.

What are the treatment options for cervical myelopathy?

• Cervical epidural injection. Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve) is a condition where a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes irritated and inflamed causing pain, numbness and weakness that radiates down the shoulder and into the arm. It is usually caused by a bone spur or herniated disc. When you experience cervical radiculopathy, a cervical epidural injection of steroids can reduce the inflammation and may be offered as a short-term solution.
• Nonsurgical management. When your symptoms are mild, your Dallas Neurosurgical & Spine specialist may recommend a trial of nonsurgical management. The goal is to decrease pain and stabilize the cervical spine and improve function.Nonsurgical management typically includes a structured program of physical therapy to improve range of motion, strength, stability and flexibility; avoidance of high-impact and pain provoking activities; and medications to relieve pain and inflammation. When nonsurgical management fails to relieve symptoms or symptoms worsen, your neurosurgeon may recommend surgery.

• Decompression surgery. The goal of surgery is to increase space in the spinal canal to relieve symptomatic compression on the spinal cord and nerves. This may involve removal of a compressed disc, bone spurs, and tissues like thickened ligaments causing the compression.

A number of surgical approaches are available to treat cervical spinal stenosis. These range from outpatient posterior cervical discectomy or foraminotomy, artificial disc replacement, and cervical spinal fusion decompression and fusion.  Your Dallas Neurosurgical & Spine expert will advise you on the least invasive and most appropriate treatment for your specific cervical spine problem.

The decision to proceed with surgery requires a comprehensive discussion with your neurosurgeon. Your surgeon will discuss your options with you based on your symptoms and the severity of your condition.

To learn more contact Dallas Neurosurgical & Spine today to schedule a consultation. We have two convenient locations in Plano and Frisco, TX, to serve you.