Seminars in Spine Surgery
Volume 19, Issue 1 , Pages 6-11, March 2007

Cervical Myelopathy: History and Physical Examination

  • William F. Lavelle, MD

      Affiliations

    • Albany Medical College, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Albany, New York.
    • Corresponding Author InformationAddress reprint requests to William F. Lavelle, MD, Albany Medical College, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, 1367 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12206.
    • ,
  • Gordon R. Bell, MD

      Affiliations

    • Cleveland Clinic Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cleveland, Ohio.

Diagnosing cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) requires careful attention to a patient’s history and clinical examination. Patients may report symptoms varying from subtle changes in dexterity to profound weakness and spasticity that cause disability. A careful physical exam by an educated physician will further aide in detecting myelopathic changes and discerning those findings from other neurological disorders. A complete review of the presenting complaints as well as a description of the natural history and key clinical findings of cervical spondylotic myelopathy is provided.

Keywords: cervical, myelopathy, spondylosis, history, physical

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PII: S1040-7383(07)00005-6

doi:10.1053/j.semss.2007.01.004

Seminars in Spine Surgery
Volume 19, Issue 1 , Pages 6-11, March 2007

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