Dr. Ratish Kumar Mishra is a highly skilled and dedicated Consultant Orthopaedic and Spine surgeon currently associated with Sanjivini Hospital in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. His areas of expertise include Neck Pain, Back Pain, Sciatica Pain, Slipped Disc, Lumbar Canal Stenosis, Spondylolisthesis, Fractures in the Spine, Spinal Cord Injury, Spine Tumors, and infections in the spine. He is also skilled in Scoliotic spine surgery and Deformity correction surgeries. He is well-versed in open, Minimally Invasive, and Endoscopic spine surgeries. He can perform anterior and posterior Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar spine surgery.”

 

Cervical Myelopathy

Cervical Myelopathy

Cervical myelopathy is a condition affecting the spinal cord in the neck, often resulting in various symptoms that can impact daily life. Understanding the signs, identifying potential causes, and exploring available treatments are essential for individuals dealing with or concerned about cervical myelopathy.

Symptoms:

  1. Numbness or Weakness:
    • Cervical myelopathy may lead to numbness or weakness in the arms, hands, or fingers, affecting daily tasks.
  2. Altered Gait and Coordination:
    • Difficulty with coordination, fine motor skills, and an unsteady gait are common symptoms associated with cervical myelopathy.
  3. Neck Pain:
    • Pain or discomfort in the neck, often radiating to the shoulders and arms, can be indicative of cervical myelopathy.
  4. Changes in Reflexes:
    • Reflexes may become exaggerated or diminished, providing important diagnostic information about spinal cord function.
  5. Bowel or Bladder Dysfunction:
    • In severe cases, cervical myelopathy can lead to changes in bowel or bladder function, necessitating urgent medical attention.

Causes:

  1. Degenerative Changes:
    • Aging-related degeneration, such as cervical spondylosis or herniated discs, OPLL can contribute to the development of cervical myelopathy.
  2. Spinal Stenosis:
    • Narrowing of the spinal canal, known as spinal stenosis, can compress the spinal cord, leading to myelopathy.
  3. Trauma or Injury:
    • Accidents, falls, or trauma to the neck region can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in cervical myelopathy.
  4. Tumours:
    • Tumours growing in the cervical spine can compress and damage the spinal cord, leading to myelopathy symptoms.

Prevention:

  1. Maintain Healthy Posture:
    • Proper posture, especially during prolonged periods of sitting, can reduce the risk of nerve compression and associated symptoms.
  2. Regular Exercise:
    • Physical activity promotes healthy circulation and can help prevent conditions related to poor blood flow.
  3. Avoid Prolonged Pressure:
    • Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or resting on body parts to prevent compression of nerves and subsequent tingling or numbness.
  4. Manage Underlying Conditions:
    • Controlling conditions such as diabetes and addressing nutritional deficiencies can reduce the risk of peripheral neuropathy.

Treatment:

  1. Conservative Management:
    • Mild cases of cervical myelopathy may be managed conservatively with physical therapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications.
  2. Medication:
    • Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and improve overall comfort.
  3. Physical Therapy:
    • Targeted exercises and physical therapy can help improve muscle strength, flexibility, and overall mobility.
  4. Surgery:
    • In cases where conservative measures are insufficient, surgical intervention may be recommended to decompress the spinal cord and stabilize the spine.
  5. Rehabilitation:
    • Post-surgical rehabilitation, including occupational therapy, aims to aid in recovery and enhance daily functioning.

Conclusion:

Cervical myelopathy is a condition that warrants careful attention and prompt medical evaluation. Recognizing symptoms, understanding potential causes, and exploring available treatment options are crucial steps in managing cervical myelopathy. If individuals experience symptoms or are concerned about their spinal health, seeking professional medical advice is essential for accurate diagnosis and the development of an appropriate treatment plan. This ensures comprehensive care, improving spinal health and overall well-being.

    Patient’s Reviews

    Dr. Ratish is an exceptional Orthopedic Surgeon whose expertise and dedication truly stand out. His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his compassionate patient care, make him a remarkable choice for anyone seeking orthopedic treatment. With a deep commitment to improving his patients' quality of life, Dr. Ratish’s skill and professionalism are truly admirable.

    Shefali Chimnani

    Patient

    Dr Ratish is an exceptional specialist in spine care. His expertise is evident in his precise diagnoses and effective treatments. His dedication to patient well-being and extensive experience makes him a top choice for anyone seeking spine-related medical assistance.

    Aman Ahuja

    Patient