Symptoms Associated With Cervical Spinal Stenosis
Cervical spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal in the region of the top seven vertebrae that comprise the cervical (neck) region of the spine. This narrowing can be a result of a traumatic neck injury, but is more commonly caused by an age-related degenerative spine condition such as osteoarthritis. While cervical stenosis often remains asymptomatic, it occasionally can produce debilitating symptoms that require the attention of a doctor or spine specialist.
Areas of the Body Affected By Cervical Spinal Stenosis
Symptoms associated with cervical narrowing often are a result of compression or irritation of the nerves located in the neck. When a cervical nerve root or the spinal cord itself becomes compressed, it can produce pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the upper extremities, including the following:
- Top of the shoulder
- Lateral portion of the arm
- Thumb
- Index finger
- Middle finger
- Interior aspects of the hand
- Clavicle
- Triceps muscle
- Scapula
- Wrist
Managing Symptoms Associated With Cervical Spinal Stenosis
In most cases, symptoms that are produced by nerve compression within the cervical region can be managed through a regimen of conservative, nonsurgical treatment methods. Often, over-the-counter ibuprofen and naproxen are suggested by doctors for their anti-inflammatory properties. Sometimes, pain relief requires prescription-strength doses. In addition, a doctor-recommended exercise routine can help improve the strength and flexibility of the cervical region, allowing the muscles and ligaments to provide better support for the spinal anatomy.
Occasionally, conservative treatment proves inadequate and a doctor may recommend that a patient explore surgery as an option. Generally, spine surgery is considered the last resort for symptom management, and should be considered only after all conservative methods have been exhausted.
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