Cervical Myelopathy Physiotherapy Brisbane southside.
What is Cervical Myelopathy?
Cervical myelopathy is a medical condition characterised by compression or dysfunction of the spinal cord in the cervical (neck) region of the spine. It can result from various causes, including degenerative changes, spinal cord injuries, congenital abnormalities, tumours, or infections.
What are the symptoms for Cervical Myelopathy?
What causes Cervical Myelopathy?
How is Cervical Myelopathy diagnosed?
What is the treatment for Cervical Myelopathy?
What is the prognosis for Cervical Myelopathy?
How is Cervical Myelopathy prevented?
How can physiotherapy help with Cervical Myelopathy?
Physiotherapy can play a valuable role in the management of cervical myelopathy, although it's important to note that it is typically used as a complementary treatment alongside medical interventions, such as surgery, when necessary. The goals of physiotherapy for cervical myelopathy are to optimise physical function, relieve symptoms, and improve overall quality of life. Here's how physiotherapy can help:
It's important to emphasise that the specific physiotherapy interventions will vary based on the individual's condition, the severity of cervical myelopathy, and the recommendations of the treating physician. Physiotherapy should be administered by a qualified and experienced physiotherapist who is knowledgeable about spinal conditions like cervical myelopathy.
Overall, physiotherapy can be an essential component of the multidisciplinary approach to managing cervical myelopathy, helping individuals regain function, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life, whether as a preoperative preparation, postoperative rehabilitation, or a conservative management strategy.
If you or a loved one has questions about Cervical Myelopathy and how our physiotherapists might be able to help please call us on 07 3706 3407 or email [email protected]. We would love to work with you!
Cervical myelopathy is a medical condition characterised by compression or dysfunction of the spinal cord in the cervical (neck) region of the spine. It can result from various causes, including degenerative changes, spinal cord injuries, congenital abnormalities, tumours, or infections.
What are the symptoms for Cervical Myelopathy?
- Weakness in the arms and legs, often leading to difficulty with fine motor skills and coordination.
- Numbness and tingling in the hands or feet.
- Loss of balance and gait abnormalities.
- Neck pain and stiffness.
- Difficulty with hand dexterity, such as buttoning shirts or grasping objects.
- Changes in bowel or bladder function in severe cases.
What causes Cervical Myelopathy?
- Degenerative changes in the cervical spine, such as spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), herniated discs, or bone spurs.
- Traumatic injuries to the neck or spinal cord.
- Congenital conditions affecting the spinal canal.
- Tumours or infections affecting the cervical spine.
How is Cervical Myelopathy diagnosed?
- Medical history and physical examination.
- Neurological assessment to evaluate muscle strength, reflexes, and coordination.
- Imaging studies, such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computed Tomography) scans, to visualise the cervical spine and identify compression or abnormalities.
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function.
What is the treatment for Cervical Myelopathy?
- Conservative management: Non-surgical approaches may include physical therapy, medications to manage pain and inflammation, and lifestyle modifications to reduce strain on the neck.
- Surgical intervention: In cases of severe or progressive cervical myelopathy, surgical procedures such as decompression (removing bone or tissue compressing the spinal cord) or spinal fusion may be necessary to stabilise the spine and relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
What is the prognosis for Cervical Myelopathy?
- The prognosis for cervical myelopathy depends on the cause, severity, and timely intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes.
- Without treatment, cervical myelopathy can lead to permanent neurological deficits and disability.
How is Cervical Myelopathy prevented?
- Maintaining good posture and neck health.
- Avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the neck.
- Seeking prompt medical attention for any neck injuries or persistent symptoms.
How can physiotherapy help with Cervical Myelopathy?
Physiotherapy can play a valuable role in the management of cervical myelopathy, although it's important to note that it is typically used as a complementary treatment alongside medical interventions, such as surgery, when necessary. The goals of physiotherapy for cervical myelopathy are to optimise physical function, relieve symptoms, and improve overall quality of life. Here's how physiotherapy can help:
- Preoperative Conditioning: In cases where surgery is required, physiotherapy can be used to prepare the patient physically. Strengthening exercises and range of motion exercises can be prescribed to ensure the patient is in the best possible condition before surgery, which can aid in the postoperative recovery process.
- Postoperative Rehabilitation: After surgery, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process. The physiotherapist will work with the patient to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility in the neck and upper extremities. Rehabilitation exercises are designed to help patients regain function and reduce pain.
- Pain Management: Physiotherapists can use various modalities and techniques to help manage pain associated with cervical myelopathy. This may include the use of heat or cold therapy, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and manual therapy techniques.
- Neck Mobility: Physiotherapists can guide patients through exercises and stretches to improve neck mobility and reduce stiffness. This is important for maintaining range of motion and preventing muscle imbalances.
- Strengthening: Targeted strengthening exercises for the neck and upper body can help improve muscle strength and endurance. Strengthening the supporting muscles around the cervical spine can also help with stability and function.
- Balance and Coordination: Cervical myelopathy can affect balance and coordination. Physiotherapists can incorporate balance and coordination exercises into the treatment plan to help patients regain these skills and reduce the risk of falls.
- Education: Physiotherapists can educate patients about proper posture, body mechanics, and ergonomic considerations to minimise strain on the neck and reduce the risk of exacerbating symptoms.
- Functional Training: Physiotherapists can work with patients on specific functional activities that are important to their daily lives, such as lifting objects, reaching, or dressing, to improve independence and quality of life.
- Patient Empowerment: Physiotherapists empower patients with knowledge and techniques they can use at home to manage their symptoms and continue their rehabilitation independently.
It's important to emphasise that the specific physiotherapy interventions will vary based on the individual's condition, the severity of cervical myelopathy, and the recommendations of the treating physician. Physiotherapy should be administered by a qualified and experienced physiotherapist who is knowledgeable about spinal conditions like cervical myelopathy.
Overall, physiotherapy can be an essential component of the multidisciplinary approach to managing cervical myelopathy, helping individuals regain function, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life, whether as a preoperative preparation, postoperative rehabilitation, or a conservative management strategy.
If you or a loved one has questions about Cervical Myelopathy and how our physiotherapists might be able to help please call us on 07 3706 3407 or email [email protected]. We would love to work with you!
