Cervical Myelopathy: Physiotherapy Management in Faridabad

Cervical Myelopathy: Physiotherapy Management in Faridabad

Cervical myelopathy — compression of the spinal cord in the neck — is a serious condition that requires careful physiotherapy management. Caused by disc herniation, bone spurs (osteophytes), or ligament thickening compressing the cervical spinal cord, it causes symptoms ranging from subtle hand clumsiness to significant gait disturbance and bowel/bladder dysfunction in severe cases.

At Realign Rehab Clinic , NIT-5, Faridabad, our expert physiotherapist Dr. Vaishali Suri provides evidence-based treatment designed for your specific needs.

We serve patients from NIT, Sector 14, Old Faridabad, Green Field Colony, Ballabhgarh, Surajkund, and surrounding areas.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Cervical spondylosis — age-related disc degeneration and osteophyte formation narrowing the spinal canal
• Large cervical disc herniation compressing the spinal cord (most common in under-50s)
• Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) — more common in Asian populations
• Rheumatoid arthritis causing atlantoaxial instability and cord compression
• Cervical spinal stenosis — congenitally narrow spinal canal making cord compression more likely
• Trauma — acute disc herniation or fracture-dislocation compressing the cord

Signs and Symptoms

• Hand clumsiness — difficulty with fine motor tasks like buttoning clothes or writing
• Weakness and heaviness in the legs — difficulty climbing stairs
• Gait disturbance — wide-based, unsteady, or 'heavy' walking
• Electric shock sensations down the spine with neck flexion (Lhermitte's sign)
• Neck pain and stiffness — though often surprisingly mild
• Bladder urgency or difficulty — a serious sign requiring immediate assessment

Physiotherapy Treatment at Realign Rehab, Faridabad

• Neurological assessment to quantify the extent of cord compression and function
• Safe cervical mobilisation — gentle techniques avoiding excessive cervical manipulation
• Strengthening programme for the upper and lower limbs to compensate for neural deficits
• Gait and balance training to reduce fall risk
• Fine motor retraining for hand function — essential for daily activities
• Education on activity modification — avoiding high cervical compression positions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is physiotherapy safe for cervical myelopathy?

Physiotherapy is safe when conducted by a skilled practitioner who understands the condition. We avoid high-velocity cervical manipulation and focus on gentle mobilisation, strengthening, and neurological rehabilitation.

We work closely with your neurosurgeon.

When is surgery necessary for cervical myelopathy?

Surgery is recommended for moderate-to-severe myelopathy, rapidly progressing symptoms, or bowel/bladder involvement. Mild, stable myelopathy may be managed conservatively with close monitoring.

The neurosurgeon makes this decision — physiotherapy supports the process.

Can physiotherapy improve hand function in myelopathy?

Yes — fine motor retraining, grip strengthening, and neural plasticity exercises can improve hand function even in established myelopathy. Early intervention gives the best results.

What should I avoid if I have cervical myelopathy?

Avoid high-impact activities (contact sports, trampolining), positions of extreme cervical extension or flexion, and heavy lifting. Cervical manipulation by untrained practitioners is contraindicated. We provide a detailed activity guide.

Book Your Consultation

Ready to get back to pain-free living? Contact Realign Rehab Clinic today.

📍 NIT-5, Faridabad (near Green Field Colony, Sector 15)
📞 +91 9818185589
🕑 Monday–Saturday: 9 AM–7 PM