If you’ve been told you have cervical spondylosis and are experiencing symptoms like numbness, weakness, or difficulty with coordination, it can feel worrying, especially when you hear terms like spinal cord compression. At the Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, we understand how uncertain and overwhelming these symptoms can be. Our aim is to help you understand the condition, what causes spinal cord compression, and what treatment options are available to help you feel better and stay active.
Cervical spondylosis is a common age-related condition that affects the neck (cervical spine). Over time, the discs and joints in the neck gradually wear down, similar to arthritis in other parts of the body. While many people with cervical spondylosis have no symptoms, others may develop pain, stiffness, or more serious neurological symptoms when spinal cord compression occurs.
Spinal cord compression happens when something narrows the space within the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord. In cervical spondylosis, this narrowing is usually caused by the following changes:
As we age, the discs between the vertebrae can lose water content and become less flexible. This makes them thinner and less able to cushion the bones, causing the vertebrae to move closer together and increasing the risk of compression.
The body often tries to compensate for the extra pressure on joints by forming bone spurs—bony growths that develop along the edges of the vertebrae. While these are intended to stabilize the spine, they can press on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
The ligamentum flavum, a ligament that runs along the spine, can thicken over time. This thickening can reduce the available space in the spinal canal, contributing to compression.
A disc weakened by age or injury may bulge or rupture, pushing into the spinal canal and pressing on the cord or nerves.
When the spinal cord is compressed in the cervical spine, the symptoms may appear in various parts of the body, not just the neck.
If you’re noticing these signs, especially if they’re getting worse, it's important not to delay seeking medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent nerve damage.
At DRHC Dubai, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosis. This typically includes:
Our team will guide you through these steps with care, answering your questions and making sure you feel supported every step of the way.
We know that hearing the term “spinal cord compression” can sound alarming. But not all cases require surgery. Many patients benefit from a combination of nonsurgical treatments first.
If conservative treatments fail or symptoms are progressing—especially if there's weakness or trouble with coordination—surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord.
At DRHC Dubai, our experienced spine surgeons use advanced, minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. This approach helps reduce recovery time, minimize pain, and lower the risk of complications.