Traumatic Myelomalacia Management: The Role of the Upper Cervical Chiropractor as Primary Spine Care Provider?
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In this article, we will examine myelomalacia of the spine, a medical condition where the softening of the spinal cord can result in a decrease in its volume and cause various issues in the body. We will explore the causes of the condition, the associated problems, and the role of upper cervical chiropractors in its management.
What are the causes and symptoms of myelomalacia?
Several physical reasons can lead to decreased spinal cord volume, including falls, athletic trauma, or car accidents. However, all of these causes share a common pathology: the reduction of blood supply to the spinal cord. Insufficient blood supply can result in a loss of volume and softening of the spinal cord at the injury site. It’s worth noting that trauma is not the only factor that can result in inadequate blood supply to the spinal cord. It can also occur naturally in older individuals due to aging.
Insufficient blood supply to the spinal cord and resulting softening can cause several problems in the body, such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Delayed or inhibited reflexes
- Motor function impairment
- Muscle weakness
- Pain
The severity of the symptoms mentioned above highlights the importance of prompt intervention by upper cervical chiropractors and spine specialists in the case of myelomalacia. They strive to address the problem as soon as possible once it’s detected to prevent further complications.
Diagnosis and conventional treatment of myelomalacia
Myelomalacia is usually diagnosed with an MRI or other imaging devices that can detect the loss of spinal cord volume. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor will discuss surgical options with the patient.
The primary objectives of a myelomalacia procedure are to eliminate any blockage or compression hindering normal blood flow and to stabilize the affected area to prevent future recurrences. The specifics of the surgery, such as the discs involved or the type of implants…