Cervical Spinal Stenosis: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options

Cervical spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal in your neck becomes narrower. This narrowing can place pressure on your spinal cord or nearby nerves, potentially causing pain, numbness, weakness, and problems with movement.

Your symptoms can vary depending on where the narrowing occurs and how much pressure it creates.

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Spinal Stenosis?

Some people have spinal stenosis without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms develop, you may experience:

• Neck pain or stiffness
• Numbness or tingling in your arms or hands
• Weakness in your arms, hands, or legs
• Problems with balance or walking
• Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt
• Pain that travels from your neck into your shoulder or arm

Symptoms may develop gradually and become more noticeable as the narrowing progresses.

What Causes Cervical Spinal Stenosis?

Age-related changes in your spine are a common cause. As you get older, discs can lose height, joints may develop arthritis, and bone spurs can form. These changes can reduce space inside the spinal canal.

Other potential causes include herniated discs, thickened ligaments, spinal injuries, and conditions you were born with that result in a naturally narrow spinal canal.

How Do You Treat Cervical Spinal Stenosis?

Treatment depends on your symptoms and the severity of the compression. Nonsurgical options may include:

• Physical therapy to improve strength and mobility
• Activity modifications
• Medications to manage pain and inflammation
• Injections to address certain types of pain
• Regular monitoring of your symptoms

If your symptoms are severe or spinal cord compression affects your strength, balance, or mobility, your doctor may discuss surgery to create more room for the spinal cord or nerves.

When Should You Seek Medical Care?

You should have persistent or worsening symptoms evaluated. Seek prompt medical attention if you develop significant weakness, difficulty walking, loss of coordination, or changes in bladder or bowel control. Early evaluation can help determine the cause of your symptoms and the appropriate treatment.

Virginia Spine Specialists is an award-winning, minimally invasive spinal care practice with locations in Fredericksburg, VA and Manassas, VA. We also serve these Northern and Central Virginia locations: Haymarket, Gainesville, Culpepper, Front Royal, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Colonial Beach, Tappahannock and Lake Anna.