Myelopathy

At times the spinal cord is compressed due to degenerative changes around it. This leads to problems with walking and upper limb function. The process can be of a gradual nature or can lead to a rapid worsening. A secondary reduction in blood flow can lead to a permanent irrecoverable damage to the spinal cord. In such cases surgery is damage limitating. This could be done from the front or from the back, based on the direction of the compression. MRI scans and a detailed assessment are required to plan surgery.