Noora Hospital

Myelopathy refers to any neurological deficit in the spinal cord. The three most common types of myelopathy are cervical myelopathy, lumbar myelopathy and thoracic myelopathy. Here are the causes and symptoms of myelopathy.

Causes are as below :

1. Injury

This is a very common cause of myelopathy. Any type of accident or even a traumatic event can cause myelopathy and perhaps even paralysis.

2. Spinal stenosis

This is a condition in which the spinal cord narrows. It is one of the leading causes of myelopathy.

3. Degenerative disc disorders

As you get older, these get more likely as well as other conditions which affect the spinal column such as osteoporosis.

4. Tumor

It is a little known fact that tumors very often do cause myelopathy.

5. Multiple sclerosis

There are many other diseases which may cause myelopathy and multiple sclerosis is one of them .

Symptoms are as below :

There are many indications that you are having a form of myelopathy and should consult a medical expert. Here are some of them :

1. Changes in coordination

What this means is that all of a sudden you may find it harder to move certain limbs the way you want to. Sometimes, this can affect the whole body.

2. Sudden muscle weakness

It is highly likely that if you have myelopathy then you will have sudden weakness in your muscles.

3. Decreased hand-eye coordination

This is perhaps the biggest indicator of myelopathy since hand eye coordination is directly linked to your spinal cord and brain and if they are not functioning properly then hand-eye coordination will be worse.

These are just some of the symptoms of myelopathy, however the doctor cannot diagnose myelopathy until he does certain tests. These tests include MRI scans and other tests as well as a regular physical check-up in addition to a look at your medical history.

Plantars Fasciitis is an orthopaedic problem that gives rise to pain in the foot and heel due to strain or pressure on the plantar fascia. This is a ligament or connective tissue which lies in a flat band, connecting your heel with the toes and effectively, providing a basis for motion of the feet in general. Inflammation, swelling and bruising of this tissue or ligament can lead to excessive pain in the heel.

Let us look at ways that can help you deal with this pain :

1) Rest

Taking rest and giving your feet a break from all kinds of strain inducing activities can help in relieving the pain. Also, you can keep your feet elevated to help in reducing the pain in the area. 

2) Supportive Footwear

Using pads within your shoes with gel built into them, or using specific foot wear that help in walking without feeling too much of pain is a good way of dealing with Plantars Fasciitis. The shoe inserts must be rubber, felt or plastic so that they are soft for the feet. These also give your heel and its arch good support, while Orthotics pull at the ligament so that there is less stress on the same. you can also put on a pair of night splints which will keep the foot and the ligament stretched while you enjoy a good night sleep.

3) Exercise

Indulging in mild muscle strengthening exercise that also involves stretches and heel hooks can help in alleviating chronic pain that you may be suffering from. Lie flat on your back and take a towel. Lift your leg and hook your foot into it. Now press against the towel and pull down the towel simultaneously. Repeat at least ten times per foot. This will give you flexibility and strength in the area.

4) Pain Killers

Use pain killers only when absolutely necessary and with due advice from the doctor or Orthopaedic specialist. The use of Ibuprofen and other pain relievers can help in numbing the pain inducing nerves in the brain and give you instant relief.

5) Anti Inflammatory Drugs

Your doctor may prescribe anti inflammatory medication that can bring down the swelling for more comfortable functioning when you are on your feet. Naproxen is one such drug that helps in bringing down the inflammation. Also, corticosteroid injections can relieve severe pain.

6) Surgery

 Heel spur removal or plantar fascia release are some of the surgical options for chronic and severe cases.

Taking care of your feet is a matter of ensuring that you look into the slightest discomfort and report the same to a doctor.