Description A narrowing of the ...
Description
A narrowing of the spinal canal of the neck. The narrowing can cause compression of the spinal cord and nerves exiting the spine. The canal becomes narrowed by degeneration of the bones and ligaments, by a herniated disc, or from a tumor. It is more common in patients older than 60 but can occur at any age.
Symptoms
Neck pain, that may radiate down one or both arms; numbness, weakness, and pain that worsens with neck movement.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan reveals the narrowing of the spinal canal. A MRI can also reveal the bony abnormality and also detect damage to the nerves and spinal cord.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Pain Medicine, Spine Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan reveals the narrowing of the spinal canal. A MRI can also reveal the bony abnormality and also detect damage to the nerves and spinal cord.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Pain Medicine, Spine Surgery
Treatment
Therapy depends on the extent of the disease. Medication used include: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen/Motrin or naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen/Tylenol, a short trial of oral corticosteroids (prednisone), and/or narcotic pain relievers. Epidural steroid injections are also used to control the symptoms as well. Surgery is considered for persistent symptoms or if nerve compression is significant.