Cervical Stenosis

Doctors look at scans of a patient's neck on an ipad.

What is cervical stenosis?

Cervical stenosis is a common cause of neck pain, especially in older patients. It is caused by the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck area or upper part of the spine. This narrowing places pressure on the spinal cord. While some patients are born with this narrowing, most cases occur in patients over the age of 50 and are the result of aging and wear and tear on the spine.

What are the symptoms of cervical stenosis?

Many patients with this condition have a history of some kind of injury or trauma to the neck, however, this trauma may have occurred many months or even years before the onset of symptoms. In addition to pain, symptoms may include:

Neck pain, weakness or numbness in the shoulders, arms, and legs
Gait and balance disturbances
Changes in balance
Changes in dexterity
Numbness and tingling in the arm

What is the best treatment for cervical stenosis?

Most cases of cervical stenosis can typically be effectively addressed through nonsurgical techniques, including the use of pain and anti-inflammatory medications. If these nonsurgical measures do not work, your doctor may suggest surgery to treat the stenosis. Various surgical techniques are available to address this condition. Learn more about our services located in Washington DC, Baltimore, Maryland, or Virginia.

Cervical Spine Anatomy
Spinal Stenosis Q&A

Surgical treatment options

Anterior Cervical Fusion

Anterior cervical fusion is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease found in the neck. The procedure is performed through a small incision in the front of the neck.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease found in the neck. The procedure is performed through a small incision in the front of the neck.