Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a condition where the spinal cord in the neck (cervical spine) becomes compressed due to age-related degenerative changes, such as bone spurs, disc herniation, or thickened ligaments. It’s the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in adults over 55.

Symptoms:

• Neck stiffness or pain
• Arm or hand weakness, numbness, or tingling
• Difficulty with fine motor skills (e.g., buttoning a shirt)
• Leg stiffness, weakness, or balance issues
• In severe cases, bowel or bladder dysfunction

Causes:

• Degenerative changes in the cervical spine (e.g., osteoarthritis, disc degeneration)
• Bone spurs (osteophytes) narrowing the spinal canal
• Herniated discs or thickened ligaments
• Risk factors: aging, prior neck injuries, or genetic predisposition

Diagnosis:

• Physical exam to assess reflexes, strength, and coordination
• Imaging: MRI (preferred) or CT myelography to visualize spinal cord compression
• Electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies in some cases