Cervical Stenosis Treatment
in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Both conditions involve narrowing of the spinal canal, but in very different locations with different consequences. Lumbar stenosis compresses nerve roots in the lower back and typically causes leg heaviness when walking that is relieved by sitting or leaning forward. Cervical stenosis can compress nerve roots (causing arm symptoms) or the spinal cord itself (causing balance, coordination, and fine-motor problems in the hands and legs). Because cervical stenosis can involve the cord directly, it requires closer neurological monitoring than lumbar stenosis.

Yes, and this is one of the more important symptoms to recognize. When cervical stenosis compresses the spinal cord, the nerve pathways that control leg coordination and balance are affected before the compression causes obvious pain. Patients often notice they feel unsteady, have a wider stance when walking, or reach for walls and handrails. Any unexplained change in balance (especially in someone with known spondylosis) warrants prompt MRI evaluation for cervical myelopathy.

No. Many patients with mild to moderate cervical stenosis are managed successfully without surgery using a combination of interventional injections, physical therapy, and activity modification. Surgery is typically reserved for cases with progressive neurological deficits, worsening weakness, balance loss, coordination decline, or bowel/bladder involvement. Dr. Bhakta's goal is to control symptoms non-surgically while monitoring carefully so surgical referral happens only if and when it is clearly indicated.

A normal cervical spinal canal measures roughly 17-18 mm in anterior-posterior (AP) diameter, and radiographic stenosis is generally defined when the canal narrows below 12 mm. Absolute stenosis is often cited at under 10 mm, where the risk of myelopathy rises significantly. That said, numbers alone do not dictate treatment, some patients with narrow canals remain asymptomatic, while others develop symptoms at modest narrowing. The clinical exam always guides the final decision.

Aggressive neck extension (looking up), heavy overhead lifting, and high-impact activities can transiently worsen cervical stenosis symptoms because extension narrows the canal further. However, guided physical therapy emphasizing posture correction, deep cervical flexor strengthening, and scapular stabilization is generally safe and often helpful. The key is working with a therapist who understands stenosis mechanics, Dr. Bhakta can refer you to one familiar with this condition.

Progression varies widely. Most patients with cervical stenosis experience a slow, stepwise course rather than steady decline, long periods of stability punctuated by flares. A significant number of patients never develop myelopathy even over many years. However, once neurological symptoms (hand clumsiness, balance problems) do appear, they tend to be less reversible, which is why early identification and monitoring matter. Dr. Bhakta re-evaluates your neurological exam at every visit to catch change early.