What is CSM?

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a condition caused by compression of the spinal cord in the neck region due to age-related changes in the cervical spine (the seven vertebrae that make up the neck). These changes can include degeneration of the intervertebral discs, osteophyte formation (bony outgrowths), thickening of ligaments, and narrowing of the spinal canal.

Symptoms of CSM

The symptoms of CSM can vary depending on the severity and location of the spinal cord compression, but they typically include weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms, hands, and fingers, as well as problems with balance, coordination, and walking. Other symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, and loss of sensation in the legs or feet.

Treatment for CSM

Treatment for CSM typically involves a combination of non-surgical and surgical approaches, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the degree of spinal cord compression. Non-surgical treatments may include physical therapy, medications, and activity modification, while surgery may be necessary in more severe cases to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord.

How to prevent CSM

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and potentially delay the onset or progression of the condition:

Practice good posture: Maintaining good posture while sitting, standing, and sleeping can help to reduce the strain on your neck and spine, and may help to prevent degenerative changes that can lead to CSM.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improve flexibility, and maintain good overall health.
Avoid smoking: Smoking has been shown to accelerate the degenerative changes in the cervical spine that can lead to CSM.
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put extra strain on your spine and increase your risk of developing CSM.
Use proper ergonomics: When using electronic devices or performing tasks that require prolonged sitting or standing, use proper ergonomics to reduce strain on your neck and spine.
Seek prompt treatment for neck injuries: Injuries to the neck, such as whiplash or other trauma, can increase the risk of developing CSM, so it's important to seek prompt treatment and follow-up care for any neck injuries.

It's also important to receive regular check-ups with your healthcare provider and to discuss any concerns you have about your neck and spine health. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on ways to reduce your risk of developing CSM.

What type of rehabilitation is done for CSM?

Physical therapy rehabilitation can be a valuable part of the treatment plan for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). The specific type of physical therapy rehabilitation program will depend on the severity and location of the spinal cord compression, as well as the individual needs of the patient and what our PT will decide will be the most appropriate or effective treatment. However, some “common” types of physical therapy rehabilitation that may be used to treat CSM include:

Range of motion exercises: These exercises are designed to improve the flexibility and mobility of the neck and spine, and may involve stretching and gentle movement.
Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the strength and stability of the muscles supporting the neck and spine, which can help to reduce pressure on the spinal cord.
Balance and coordination training: Patients with CSM may experience problems with balance and coordination, and physical therapy rehabilitation may include exercises designed to improve these skills.
Posture training: Physical therapy can help to improve posture and body mechanics, which can help to reduce strain on the neck and spine.
Pain management techniques: Physical therapy may include the use of pain management techniques such as heat therapy, ice therapy, or massage to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Education and advice: Patients with CSM may benefit from education and advice about how to manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of future injury or spinal cord compression.

Physical therapy rehabilitation should be tailored to each individual patient's needs, and should be supervised by a licensed physical therapist with experience in treating patients with CSM.

Here are some of the top medical statistics for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM):

CSM is a common condition: CSM is a relatively common condition, especially among older adults. It is estimated that up to 5% of the population over the age of 55 may have CSM.
CSM is more common in men than women: CSM is more common in men than in women, with a male-to-female ratio of about 2:1.
CSM is often associated with degenerative changes in the cervical spine: CSM is most commonly caused by age-related degenerative changes in the cervical spine, such as osteophyte formation and spinal cord compression.
The symptoms of CSM can vary widely: The symptoms of CSM can vary depending on the severity and location of the spinal cord compression, but they typically include weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms, hands, and fingers, as well as problems with balance, coordination, and walking.
Surgery can be an effective treatment for CSM: In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and improve symptoms. Surgical treatment can be highly effective, with up to 90% of patients experiencing improvement in their symptoms after surgery.
Physical therapy can also be effective for CSM: In mild to moderate cases, physical therapy rehabilitation can be an effective non-surgical treatment for CSM. Patients who undergo physical therapy often experience improvements in strength, flexibility, and mobility, as well as reduced pain and inflammation.
Early diagnosis and treatment are important: Early diagnosis and treatment of CSM can help to prevent further damage to the spinal cord and improve outcomes. Patients who receive prompt and appropriate treatment have a better chance of experiencing symptom relief and improved quality of life.

If you have any specific questions about CSM or would like to be evaluated by Dr. Spooner, DPT, contact us today for a FREE 20 min consultation call.