HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

What Causes Decreasing Of Cervical Spinal Canal Diameter?

Posted on Mon, 12 May 2014

Question: My cervical spinal canal diameter has decreased in diameter to 8-9 mm at C6. I have pressure on my spondylotic bar. I have weakness in my legs and feet and I am having gait issues with loss of coordination and balance. Could that be causing this? Do I need surgery? What do I need? Thank you!!

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Consult an orthopedician as soon as possible. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for posting your query on HealthcareMagic. The cervical spinal canal diameter can decrease in various conditions like spondylitis, arthritis, etc. Decrease in diameter of the spinal canal will compress the spinal cord and the spinal nerves. The compression of the spinal nerves will produce symptoms at the site where these nerves are supplying. This is what is happening in your case. You need to consult your orthopedician for clinical assessment, relevant investigations and thus management. Decompression of the spinal canal is required to relieve the symptoms. A surgery may be required, however, definitive advise can only be given after clinical assessment. If you have more queries, I will be glad to answer. Dr Shailja P Wahal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Shailja Puri (7 minutes later)

An Ortho or a NeuroSurgeon? What type of Specialist should I see?? What is a normal diameter? Do people normally have problems at 8 mm? Thank you! XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Consult an orthopedician first. Detailed Answer: Hello and welcome again, The cervical spine stenosis is determined by ratios and not by diameter. Since, you are having symptoms, it is quite possible that there is compression of the spinal nerves. You can consult an orthopedician first. Further you may have to consult a neurologist/ neurosurgeon, but that only after consultation with an orthopedician. Thanks and take care Dr Shailja P Wahal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Shailja Puri (27 minutes later)

What is an orthopedician? I have never heard of one.

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (22 hours later)

Brief Answer: Orthopedician is a bone specilaist Detailed Answer: hello and welcome again, An orthopedician is a doctor who deals with diseases of bones, joints and surrounding soft tissues. Thanks and take care Dr Shailja P Wahal

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D