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Myelopathy: Symptoms,Types, Causes and Treatments

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Myelopathy refers to a disorder that affects the spinal cord, leading to a range of symptoms and impairments. The condition can result from various causes and manifests in different types. Understanding the types, signs, symptoms, causes, prevention, treatment, diagnosis, and home remedies is crucial for managing myelopathy effectively.

Types of Myelopathy

Types of Myelopathy

Cervical Myelopathy

  • Affects the cervical spine (neck region).
  • Often caused by degenerative changes, spinal stenosis, or herniated discs.

Thoracic Myelopathy

  • Occurs in the thoracic spine (upper and middle back).
  • Commonly associated with spinal cord compression due to trauma, tumors, or degenerative diseases.

Lumbar Myelopathy

  • Affects the lumbar spine (lower back).
  • Typically caused by spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or degenerative changes.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of myelopathy can vary depending on the type and severity. Common manifestations include:

  • Weakness or numbness in the limbs
  • Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
  • Changes in coordination
  • Pain or discomfort in the affected region
  • Bowel or bladder dysfunction
  • Muscle spasms and stiffness

Causes of Myelopathy

Causes of Myelopathy

  1. Degenerative Changes: Aging-related wear and tear on the spine.
  2. Herniated Discs: Discs in the spine bulge or rupture, causing compression on the spinal cord.
  3. Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, leading to compression of the spinal cord.
  4. Trauma: Injuries or accidents causing damage to the spine.
  5. Tumors: Abnormal growths in or around the spinal cord.

Prevention of Myelopathy

Prevention of Myelopathy

While some causes of myelopathy are unavoidable, certain lifestyle choices and habits can contribute to prevention:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Regular exercise and stretching
  • Proper body mechanics to prevent injuries
  • Avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption

Treatment of Myelopathy

Treatment of Myelopathy

Conservative Management

  • Physical therapy for strengthening and flexibility.
  • Medications for pain relief and inflammation.
  • Activity modification.

Surgical Intervention

  • Decompression surgery to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord.
  • Spinal fusion for stability in severe cases.

Diagnosis

  1. Medical History and Physical Examination: Evaluation of symptoms and patient history.
  2. Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans to visualize the spine and detect abnormalities.
  3. Electrodiagnostic Tests: Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function.

Home Remedies

Home Remedies

  1. Hot/Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to alleviate pain and inflammation.
  2. Rest and Posture: Adequate rest and maintaining proper posture.
  3. Exercise: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises as recommended by a healthcare professional.

In Conclusion, Myelopathy can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, but with early detection and appropriate management, many individuals can find relief from symptoms. Prevention through lifestyle modifications and adherence to recommended treatments can contribute to better outcomes for those affected by this condition. If you suspect you may have myelopathy, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

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FAQ’s

Gamma Knife uses 192–201 precisely focused beams of gamma rays that converge at a single target point in the brain. This high dose of radiation damages the DNA of abnormal cells, stopping their growth or causing them to shrink, while minimizing exposure to nearby healthy tissue.

No, Gamma Knife is not a traditional surgery. It is a non-invasive outpatient procedure performed without any incision, stitches, or general anesthesia in most cases.

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Depending on the condition and treatment plan, Gamma Knife may take 30 minutes to 3 hours. Most patients go home the same day.

Common side effects are usually mild and temporary, including:

Headache
Nausea
Fatigue
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Gamma Knife has a high success rate and has been used worldwide for decades. Its effectiveness depends on the condition treated, size and location of the lesion, and overall patient health. In many cases, it offers results comparable to open surgery with fewer risks.

Yes, in some cases Gamma Knife treatment can be repeated if the disease recurs or if new lesions develop.

Yes. Gamma Knife is considered one of the safest and most precise forms of radiosurgery, with millions of patients treated globally and extensive clinical data supporting its use.

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Size and location of the lesion
Overall health and age
Whether open surgery is too risky
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A detailed MRI or CT scan is performed to map the brain.
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Local anesthesia is given if a head frame is used.
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Costs vary depending on hospital, city, and condition treated. On average, Gamma Knife in India ranges from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹4.5 lakh. It is usually more affordable compared to treatment in Western countries. At AIIMS Delhi, it is much more affordable around ₹75,000 which makes it affordable for the patients in need.

AIIMS Delhi is one of the leading centres for Gamma Knife in India.

  • AIIMS uses the latest Gamma Knife Perfexion system.
  • It has successfully treated thousands of patients for brain tumors, blood vessel problems, and even eye cancers.
  • The treatment is done by expert neurosurgeons such as Dr. Deepak Agrawal and team.
  • Clinic timings for Gamma Knife OPD at AIIMS Delhi: Monday & Friday, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
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