Myelopathy | Nuffield Health

Worried about your condition? Talk to a GP.

In rare cases myelopathy can be caused by tumours.

Symptoms of myelopathy may include:

Sciatica
Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
Weakness in arms or legs
Bowel or bladder problems

To diagnose myelopathy your consultant will perform a full examination. They may order an MRI scan and other tests as appropriate for your condition.

Treatment may include medication. In some cases your consultant may recommend spinal decompression surgery to relieve your symptoms.

Related tests and scans

MRI scan

An MRI is a type of scan that creates detailed images of the inside of your body.. Your doctor or healthcare professional has recommended an MRI scan because it is the best way to make an accurate diagnosis of your condition.

X-ray

An X-ray machine produces images of the inside of the body. It is effective in assessing bones and other dense structures within the body.

Related treatments and procedures

ACDF surgery (anterior cervical discectomy and fusion)

If you’ve been living with neck pain, arm numbness or weakness that isn’t improving, ACDF surgery may help. ACDF surgery at Nuffield Health is designed to relieve pressure on the nerves or spinal cord and restore stability in the neck. It’s a well‑established procedure with a strong track record of improving symptoms and quality of life.

Spinal (lumbar) Decompression

Spinal decompression is a type of back surgery used to release trapped nerves in the lower (lumbar) spine.

Spinal fusion surgery

Spinal fusion is an operation to weld or fuse together the small bones in your back eliminating motion that is causing back pain.