If you develop worsening of any of the symptoms below, seek prompt medical attention via your GP or Musculoskeletal service.
Many people have a combination of neck pain, arm pain, numbness, and weakness. These symptoms can be upsetting, but they don't always need urgent medical attention.
However, there is a rare but serious condition called Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy, this happens when the spinal cord gets squeezed and can cause permanent nerve damage or disability. It's important to know the symptoms, which are listed below.
Cervical Myelopathy warning signs
- Difficulty walking, heavy legs or keeping your balance: You may feel more unsteady and fall more often
- Weakness or clumsiness in your hands: Difficulty with tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or using a spoon to eat with
- Numbness or tingling in your hands, arms or legs
Additional information
Please click here for the Cervical Myelopathy Organisation website. This is the leading clinical chairty for Cervical Meylopathy and will provide you with the most upto date information about the condition and how it is managed.
It also gives you acccess to patient stories, support groups and how you can get involved in the community.