What Treatment Options Are Available For Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Cervical spinal stenosis can be caused by a number of conditions, ranging from fractures to herniated discs and much more. In addition, the condition varies widely in severity. Because of these facts, the treatment options for cervical spinal stenosis vary widely based on the specifics of the clinical situation. Below, we'll look at some of the available treatments for the condition.

About Cervical Spinal Stenosis

The spine is composed of vertebrae, discs, and the spinal cord. One disc lies between each vertebrae, and the discs and vertebrae work together to protect the spinal cord and give structure to the spine. When the space where the spinal cord lies becomes narrower than usual, spinal stenosis occurs. If the stenosis occurs in the neck, it is called cervical spinal stenosis. This can be caused by damage to the discs, damage to the vertebrae, or other issues. 

Some possible causes of cervical spinal stenosis include: 

• Herniated discs
• Bulging discs
• Fractured vertebrae
• Spondylolisthesis
• Spinal arthritis 
• Spinal tumors (rare) 

In contrast to stenosis of the lower spine, stenosis of the cervical spine can be very serious in some cases. The neck contains nerves that go to all parts of the body, including the arms, legs, and some organs. If cervical spinal stenosis is very severe and progressive, it has the potential to cause paralysis and other serious complications. Therefore, severe cases require careful monitoring and often aggressive intervention.

Non-Invasive Treatments

Most cases of spinal stenosis can be treated without resorting to surgery of any kind. For example, physical therapy can reduce inflammation and improve mobility, strength, and alignment. Medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can often manage symptoms. In conjunction with traditional medical treatment, chiropractic care may be useful. 

Minimally Invasive Treatments

A number of cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatments are available for the treatment of spinal stenosis, so that traditional open spine surgery is not usually required. These treatments require only tiny incisions and are usually performed in an oupatient setting. Some minimally invasive treatments include: 

• Steroid injections
• Stem cell therapy
• Nerve stimulation
• Laser spine surgery
• Endoscopic spine surgery

Open Spine Surgery

Open spine surgery requires the doctor to make large incisions and open up the neck, then treat the spinal stenosis with tools such as scalpels. Major procedures like spinal fusion may be performed. Although open spine surgery is necessary in some cases, it is very invasive and should be reserved for cases where it is the only or best option.

Only a doctor can tell you which treatment is right for your condition. Dr. Datta would be happy to meet with you about your spinal stenosis. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or give us a call at (212) 430-0312.