Degenerative cervical myelopathy

Many people have a combination of neck pain, arm pain, numbness and weakness. These symptoms can be distressing, but don’t necessarily require urgent medical attention. However, an uncommon but serious exception is degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). DCM is a progressive degenerative condition of the spine which involves compression of the spinal cord and can lead to permanent nerve damage or disability in some cases. If you develop new or worsening of symptoms (as shown overleaf) seek medical attention, as early recognition and treatment can prevent further deterioration.

Cervical myelopathy warning signs

Signs and symptoms may include:

• tingling and or numbness in the arms, hands and (or) legs and feet
• clumsy hands, for example, knocking things over, loss of coordination
• loss of dexterity, for example, struggling with grasping items, handwriting, buttons or zips
• weakness or heaviness in the arms/hands or legs or feet, for example, dropping things or tripping over
• reduced balance causing unsteadiness or falls
• difficulties with walking and immobility, for example, legs feel heavy, stiff or weak
• worsening pain in the arms or legs
• recent changes to bladder function, for example, urgency, difficulty passing urine (incontinence or retention) or leakage.