Symptoms of Cervical Stenosis

Cervical stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord and is most frequently caused by aging. The discs in the spine that separate and cushion vertebrae may dry out. As a result, the space between the vertebrae shrinks, and the discs lose their ability to act as shock absorbers. At the same time, the bones and ligaments that make up the spine become less pliable and thicken. These changes result in a narrowing of the spinal canal. In addition, the degenerative changes associated with cervical stenosis can affect the vertebrae by contributing to the growth of bone spurs that compress the nerve roots. The main causes of cervical spinal stenosis include cervical spondylosis, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), or calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. Cervical spinal stenosis is more common in males than females, and is mainly found in the 40-60 year age group. Signs of cervical spinal stenosis include spastic gait; upper extremity numbness; upper extremity, lower extremity weakness or both; radicular pain in the upper limb; sphincter disturbances; muscle wasting; sensory deficits; and reflex abnormalities in reflexes.

 

In cervical spinal stenosis, the spinal canal becomes increasingly narrow, putting pressure on the bundle of nerves that runs through it. This narrowing can result from a variety of factors, including general aging and wear-and-tear, ruptured discs, slipped vertebrae (spondylolisthesis), enlarged joints, and bone spurs. Cervical spinal stenosis can also be a congenital condition.