Health Information : Cervical canal stenosis

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What is Cervical canal stenosis?

Cervical canal stenosis is a condition in which there is narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck that further squeezes and compresses the nerve roots where they leave the spinal cord. It may even damage the spinal cord itself or change the regular functioning of spinal cord.

What causes Cervical canal stenosis?

With age, changes occur in the shape and size of the spinal canal. There is bulging of discs, damage to the tissues that cover bones and excessive growth of bones in joints. All these conditions can cause narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck. Cervical canal stenosis may also occur since birth.

What are the symptoms of Cervical canal stenosis?

The symptoms of Cervical canal stenosis develop slowly and occur over a period of time. They may include:

• Stiffness, pain, numbness or weakness in the neck, arms, shoulders, hands and legs
• Loss of balance and coordination
• Loss of bowel or bladder control

How can Cervical canal stenosis be treated?

The goal of treatment for Cervical canal stenosis is to help the patient get relief from pain and also restore his mobility. Initially, the doctor will use conservative methods to treat the problem, that includes:

• Stretching
• Physical therapy
• Exercise
• Epidural steroid injections
• Hot/cold therapy
• Pain relievers

In case, the patient doesn’t get relief from conservative methods, then surgery may be done to ease out the symptoms.