Cervical Myelopathy for Beginners

Cervical myelopathy is a progressive spinal cord injury caused mainly by degenerative changes in the cervical spine, leading to compression and neurological deficits. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, clumsiness in the hands, balance issues, gait disturbances, and bladder dysfunction. Diagnosis is clinical, supported by MRI findings, as X-rays are insufficient. Many patients experience delayed diagnosis due to subtle, non-specific symptoms and fragmented healthcare pathways. Early recognition is crucial, as surgical decompression can prevent further deterioration but does not fully reverse damage. Primary care providers should identify warning signs, refer promptly for specialist evaluation, and educate patients on fall prevention and risk factors. Faster intervention improves long-term outcomes.