| Objective: To present a case study and review the existing literature regarding typical signs and symptoms, supported diagnostic tests and procedures and the common predisposing factors of cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Case: A 53 year old woman presented with a sensation of immobility and stiffness in her lower limbs followed by tingling on both sides of her body, starting from her fingers and progressing to her head and mid-back. Treatment initially commenced with chiropractic but due to the progressive neurological symptoms present, a surgical outcome was sought. Following the successful surgery, the myelopathic symptoms were greatly resolved. The urinary incontinence was resolved and the other symptoms were greatly reduced. Post surgical chiropractic care continued after a course of post operative physiotherapy. Conclusion: This case demonstrates a typical presentation of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, where stiffness, clumsiness and changes to gait are accompanied by further upper motor neuron signs, along with upper limb signs. Knowledge of these common factors will increase awareness of the condition and its presentation in the chiropractic profession, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment. This abstract is reproduced with the permission of the publisher; full text available by subscription.
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