• Tingling or numbness in arms, fingers, or hands

• Weakness of muscles in arms, shoulders, or hands

• Trouble holding or grasping items

• Imbalance or coordination problems

• Lack of fine motor skills

• Pain or stiffness in neck

What is Spinal Cord Compression?

Spinal cord compression is when the spinal cord becomes compressed or squeezed as a result of aging and subsequent wear-and-tear on the body.

This condition most commonly occurs in patients 50 years old or older and can not only cause discomfort, but can impair motor skills and balance. Causes include cervical disk degeneration (bone spurs and herniated disks), rheumatoid arthritis, and injuries.

Treatment & Next Steps

If you think that you may have cervical spondylotic myelopathy, it is important that you seek the medial counsel of a doctor and back pain specialist, as this condition can greatly impact your quality of life: 

• Change in reflexes
• Numbness and weakness
• Trouble with balance and weakness in the legs
• Muscle atrophy

Often non-invasive treatments such as physical therapy and medications can help provide relief and improve a person's quality of life. However, in some cases surgery can be necessary.

Make an appointment with Houston’s Top Rated Local® Back Pain Specialist Dr. Rahman to learn how to find pain relief and enhance your quality of life.