There are many casues to myelopathy depending on the location of myelopathy. Some of the most common causes of myelopathy are:

• Trauma or injury
• Degeneration of the spinal cord
• Autoimmune disorders
• Spinal Tumors
• Myelitis

The symptoms of myelopathy depend on where on spinal cord is affected and the degree (anterior, posterior or lateral) of the pathology, and typically include:

• Numbness
• Arm and shoulder weakness
• Loss of balance
• Clumsiness

To diagnose myelopathy, your Newport Beach orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Todd Peters will perform a complete and thorough physical examination as well as a medical history check. He may also request X-Rays, MRIs, and CT scans to better assess your case.

X-Rays – A type of quick imaging process using electromagnectic waves to better show Dr. Peters bones of the body to pinpoint possible sources of pain.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – This type of imaging uses radiology to show Dr. Peters the soft tissues of the body like muscles, disks, nerves, and the spinal cord.

Computerized tomography (CT) – CT scans are X-ray scans taken from various angles to create a cross-section of bones and soft tissues of the body.

Dr. Peters may recommend minimally invasive spine surgery depending on the severity of your case.