cervical spinal stenosis

Clinical manifestations

• gait disorder: ataxia, balance disorder
• upper motor neuron signs
  • positive Hoffmann's sign (upper extremities)
  • positive Babinski's sign (lower extremities)
  • hyperreflexia may be present
    • upper extremities &/or lower extremities
    • exaggerated patellar reflex
  • abnormal sensation to light touch or pinprick in upper extremities
  • abnormal performance on a '10-second grip & release test'
    • repeatedly flexing & extending fingers for 10 seconds
• cervical lower motor neuron signs may be present
  • fasciculations in upper extremities
• increased urinary frequency

Radiology

• magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine

Complications

• disease interaction(s) of cervical spinal stenosis with urge incontinence

Management

• physical therapy for chronic cervical spinal stenosis
• neurosurgery for acute spinal stenosis

More general terms

• spinal stenosis
• cervical myelopathy