Cervical Myelopathy in Singapore
Struggling with Neck Stiffness, Hand Clumsiness, or Gait Imbalance?
By Dr Lau LL | drlauspineclinic@gmail.com | Singapore | Published on 3 September 2025 | Last modified on 28 January 2026
The Scoliosis & Spine Clinic (SG) provides expert care for cervical myelopathy in Singapore—a progressive condition caused by spinal cord compression in the neck. Patients often experience hand dysfunction, walking imbalance, and upper limb weakness. This article outlines how cervical myelopathy presents, what causes it, and how it can be managed effectively in Singapore.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Neck stiffness or discomfort
- Hand clumsiness or difficulty with fine motor tasks
- Unsteady gait or balance issues
- Upper limb weakness or numbness
- Spasticity or exaggerated reflexes
What Are the Risk Factors?
- Age over 50 (degenerative changes)
- Congenital spinal canal narrowing
- Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL)
- Previous neck trauma or instability
- Asian ethnicity (higher prevalence of OPLL)
- Dwarfism
What Causes Cervical Myelopathy?
- Degenerative cervical stenosis
- Disc herniation or bulging
- Bone spurs compressing the spinal cord
- OPLL (ossified ligament pressing on the cord)
- Trauma or instability
How Is It Diagnosed?
- Neurological examination (e.g. Hoffman’s sign, gait testing)
- MRI of the cervical spine to assess cord compression
- CT scan for bony narrowing or OPLL
- Electrophysiological studies (if needed)
What Are the Treatment Options?
Non-Surgical Management
- Activity modification and fall prevention
- Physical therapy for balance and coordination
- Medications for spasticity or inflammation
Surgical Intervention
- Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
- Posterior cervical decompression and fusion
- Laminoplasty (motion-preserving decompression)
Conclusion
Cervical myelopathy is a serious and progressive condition that can affect mobility, dexterity, and independence. At The Scoliosis & Spine Clinic (SG) in Singapore, we offer comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plans—from conservative care to advanced surgical decompression. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are key to preserving spinal cord function and long-term quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions: Cervical Myelopathy
1. What are the common causes of medical myelopathy where surgery is not needed?
Medical myelopathy refers to spinal cord dysfunction caused by non-surgical conditions such as vitamin B12 deficiency, autoimmune disorders, viral infections, or inflammatory diseases like multiple sclerosis. These cases may be managed with medication, rehabilitation, and close monitoring without the need for surgery.
2. What is stretch myelopathy?
Stretch myelopathy is a form of spinal cord injury caused by excessive elongation or traction of the spinal cord, often seen in cases of spinal deformity or instability. It can lead to neurological symptoms without direct compression and may improve with postural correction or bracing, depending on severity.
3. What is the difference between medical myelopathy and surgical myelopathy?
Medical and surgical myelopathy differ in both cause and treatment approach:
Medical Myelopathy:
- Caused by systemic or inflammatory conditions
- Examples include vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, infections, or multiple sclerosis
- Typically managed with medication, rehabilitation, and monitoring
- Caused by mechanical compression of the spinal cord
- Common causes include disc herniation, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis
- Often requires surgical decompression to prevent permanent neurological damage