Spine Myelopathy Treatment

Myelopathy Diagnosis & Treatment In Wayne, New Jersey

Myelopathy is a serious condition that affects your spinal cord and nervous system. If you or a loved one is currently struggling with myelopathy, seek treatment as soon as possible. High Mountain Orthopedics is located in Wayne, New Jersey, where we treat patients for cervical and degenerative myelopathy.

What Is Myelopathy?

The spinal cord is the central part of the body’s information network. When it is damaged or put under pressure, the body loses its ability to transmit signals like sensory input, movement instructions, and balance. This is what is referred to as myelopathy. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Weakness, tingling, or numbness in the limbs
• Loss of proper sensory ability
• Difficulty with handwriting and other fine motor skills
• Frequent stumbling due to loss of balance
• Loss of bowel and bladder function
• Shooting pain down the spine

Left untreated, myelopathy can quickly accelerate. The consequences are significant, often permanent nerve damage. In severe cases, myelopathy may even be fatal. If you or a loved one is struggling with symptoms of myelopathy, seek diagnosis and treatment now.

Causes and Risk Factors

Myelopathy is typically categorized based on the location it affects, as well as its cause. There are two main types, including:

Spondylotic Myelopathy

This form of myelopathy is the consequence of natural degeneration of the spine. It is most commonly caused by aging. The condition can be hastened by certain other factors, however, including:

• Spinal stenosis
• Disc herniation
• Previous trauma or injuries
• Spinal infections
• Bone degradation or spurs
• Arthritis
• Spinal tumors and cancers

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative myelopathy is caused by a neurogenerative disease. The cause is most frequently amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Parkinson’s disease. Because degenerative myelopathy originates in the nerves themselves, not from a skeletal disorder, it can be more difficult to treat.

Our Treatments for Myelopathy

Myelopathy is a serious condition that can lead to permanent injury if left untreated, so prompt medical attention is essential. Most cases require surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. There are several ways to safely accomplish this, depending on the cause of the myelopathy and its location. At High Mountain Orthopedics, we include our patients in the decision-making process to ensure they are comfortable with the procedure recommended for treatment.

In some cases, the condition is not severe enough to require surgery. A neck brace and medication may be sufficient to provide support and relief, while physical therapy strengthens muscles and reduces pressure on the spinal cord. We’ll also keep a close eye on your condition. If we notice any changes, we can then recommend surgery or another more aggressive treatment to keep myelopathy in check.

Seek Treatment Today in Northern New Jersey

If you live in the region surrounding Wayne, NJ, High Mountain Orthopedics can help you or your loved one after a cervical or degenerative myelopathy diagnosis. Contact us to find out more, or schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment to discuss your condition and options for treatment.