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Spinal Cord Compression Specialist

Texas Pain And Regenerative Medicine Samir Fahed, MD Our Services Spinal Cord Compression
Samir Fahed, MD - - Pain Management

Texas Pain And Regenerative Medicine

Samir Fahed, MD

Pain Management & Alternative Medicine located in Houston, TX

Medically known as cervical spondylotic myelopathy, spinal cord compression affects your neck and is the most common spinal cord disorder in the United States. Because spinal cord compression can lead to weakness and numbness in your arms and hands, Samir Fahed, MD, provides integrative treatment options at Texas Pain and Regenerative Medicine in Sugar Land and Dickinson, Texas. Before spinal cord compression lowers your quality of life any further, see how Dr. Fahed can help by booking an evaluation through the website. You can also call either clinic to schedule by phone.

Spinal Cord Compression Q & A

Why do I have spinal cord compression?

Spinal cord compression is a neck issue that occurs when your spinal cord becomes compressed. In most cases, spinal cord compression develops because of wear-and-tear on your vertebrae as you age, particularly after age 50. 

As the discs in your spine degenerate over time, they become thinner, lose hydrating water content, and start to bulge. This causes a collapsing of your spinal column where your vertebrae lose space between them. 

Your body may respond to this loss of space by creating more bone, which leads to bone spurs. These spurs narrow your spine and lead to further compression on your spinal cord. Sometimes, spinal cord compression is linked to rheumatoid arthritis, injury, or herniated disc issues. 

What are the symptoms of spinal cord compression?

Spinal cord compression progresses and often leads to worsening symptoms. Because of this, it’s important to understand the signs and symptoms of spinal cord compression and come to Texas Pain and Regenerative Medicine for early intervention. You need to visit with Dr. Fahed if you experience:

  • Difficulty grasping or manipulating objects
  • Muscle weakness in your arms, hands, and fingers
  • Electrical-like sensations that shoot down your spine or arms
  • Chronic pins and needles, burning, or stabbing sensations

Without proper treatment, compression can lead to damage of your spinal cord, impaired blood flow, and neurological dysfunction. 

Dr. Fahed conducts thorough diagnostic testing to determine the severity of your spinal cord compression so you can work together to determine which treatments may be most beneficial. 

How does a doctor treat spinal cord compression?

Dr. Fahed spends quality time counseling you about all possible spinal cord treatments. He wants to ensure you experience relief from your symptoms quickly, while delaying the progression of your condition. Spinal cord compression treatment plans may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Epidural steroid injections 
  • Neck immobilization with bracing or a collar
  • Medications to reduce pain and inflammation

If conservative solutions aren’t effective, Dr. Fahed may recommend surgery. Spinal cord compression surgery can help remove pressure from your spinal cord, restore neck function, and stabilize your spine.

The majority of conditions that cause spinal cord compression are located in the front of your spinal cord. For this reason, Dr. Fahed usually recommends anterior cervical decompression and fusion surgery. This procedure involves fusing bones, replacing discs, grafting tissues, or placing hardware, depending on the severity of your compression. 

Texas Pain and Regenerative Medicine offers effective spinal cord compression treatments. Find out which one is right for you by booking an exam online or over the phone with the office nearest you. 

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