Cervical Disc Issues and Their Impact on Walking: Causes and Treatment Options
The cervical spine, located in the neck region, consists of seven vertebrae, each cushioned by intervertebral discs that serve as shock absorbers and provide flexibility to the spine. When one or more of these cervical discs becomes damaged, such as through degeneration or herniation, it can significantly affect various bodily functions, including walking. The link between cervical disc issues and impaired walking is not widely recognized but can have serious consequences for mobility, balance, and overall quality of life.
How Cervical Disc Problems Affect Walking
Walking is a complex process that requires coordination between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. The cervical spine plays a vital role in transmitting signals from the brain to the rest of the body. When cervical discs are compromised, the nerves running through the spinal cord can become compressed, leading to a variety of symptoms that impact walking.
- Nerve Compression: The spinal cord passes through the cervical vertebrae, and if a disc becomes herniated, it can press on the spinal cord or nerve roots. This compression may cause myelopathy (spinal cord dysfunction), leading to difficulty with walking and balance. People may notice weakness in their legs, a feeling of heaviness, or even sudden episodes of stumbling.
- Gait Disturbances: A herniated or degenerative cervical disc can cause a condition known as cervical spondylotic myelopathy, which often manifests with changes in gait. Patients might develop a spastic gait, where movements become stiff and jerky. Fine motor skills in the legs, such as controlling foot placement or toe movements, may become difficult, resulting in an unsteady walk.
- Loss of Balance: The nerves affected by cervical disc issues can alter proprioception—the body’s ability to sense its position in space. This disruption can make maintaining balance while walking more challenging. Patients may find it harder to navigate uneven surfaces or may experience frequent falls due to reduced coordination.
- Weakness and Fatigue: Chronic nerve compression can lead to muscle weakness, particularly in the legs. As the muscles weaken, walking becomes more physically taxing, and patients may feel fatigued after short distances. This can cause a reduction in activity levels, further exacerbating muscle weakness and mobility issues.
Treatment Options
Addressing the impact of cervical disc problems on walking depends on the severity of the condition. Fortunately, several treatments are available to manage symptoms and restore mobility.
- Physical Therapy: A tailored physical therapy program can be beneficial for strengthening muscles, improving gait, and enhancing balance. Exercises may focus on stabilizing the neck and spine while simultaneously working on lower body strength and coordination. Regular physical therapy can help alleviate some of the neurological symptoms associated with cervical disc issues.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and muscle spasms caused by nerve compression. Pain management can allow patients to maintain a more active lifestyle, which helps preserve muscle strength and walking ability.
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical options like cervical discectomy or cervical fusion may be necessary. These procedures aim to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots and restore function. Many patients experience improved walking ability and reduced neurological symptoms following surgery.
- Assistive Devices: For those with significant walking difficulties, assistive devices such as canes, walkers, or orthotic braces may be recommended to improve mobility and prevent falls.
Cervical disc issues can have a profound effect on walking, balance, and overall mobility. Early recognition of symptoms, such as weakness or difficulty with coordination, is key to preventing further deterioration. With a combination of physical therapy, medications, or surgical options, many patients can regain mobility and improve their quality of life. If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulty walking due to neck or spine issues, seeking medical advice is essential for timely intervention and treatment.
The contents of this article have been reviewed by Dr. Michael Spadola, a Penn Medicine neurosurgeon. Dr. Spadola treats patients at Shore Physicians Group’s Neurosurgery Division office located at 155 Medical Center Way in Somers Point, NJ. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Spadola, call 609-365-6239.
