1. What is Cervical Stenosis?

Cervical stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal in the neck (cervical spine) becomes narrowed, putting pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves. This narrowing can lead to chronic neck pain, numbness, tingling, or even difficulty with balance and coordination if left untreated.

2. Causes

Cervical stenosis often develops gradually over time due to:

• Aging: Natural wear and tear that leads to disc degeneration and bone spurs

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis can thicken ligaments and cause joint overgrowth, narrowing the spinal canal

• Disc Herniation: Bulging or herniated discs can push into the spinal canal

• Genetics: Some people are born with a smaller spinal canal (congenital stenosis)

• Injury: Trauma to the neck may accelerate stenosis development

3. Symptoms

The severity of symptoms depends on how much the spinal cord or nerves are compressed:

• Chronic neck pain and stiffness

• Pain radiating into the shoulders, arms, or hands

• Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, or fingers

• Weakness or clumsiness in the arms and legs

• Difficulty with balance or walking in severe cases (myelopathy)

4. Diagnosis

Cervical stenosis is diagnosed through:

• Medical history and physical exam: To evaluate neurological function, strength, and mobility

• Imaging tests: MRI or CT scans can show narrowing of the spinal canal and nerve compression

• X-rays: Reveal bone spurs or disc space narrowing

• Nerve studies: Performed if nerve damage is suspected

5. Treatments

Non-Surgical Options:

• Physical therapy to improve neck strength and flexibility

• Pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce discomfort

• Activity modifications to limit movements that worsen symptoms

• Corticosteroid injections in some cases to relieve inflammation around nerves

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Options:
When conservative care does not provide relief, minimally invasive spine surgery may be recommended. Techniques such as cervical foraminotomy may be appropriate for select patients and can relieve pressure on the nerves through very small incisions. These procedures minimize disruption to muscles and soft tissue, resulting in faster recovery, less scarring, and a quicker return to daily activities compared to traditional open surgery.

Other Surgical Options:

• Traditional cervical laminectomy or fusion in cases of severe stenosis or instability

• Artificial disc replacement when appropriate, to preserve motion