Can cervical spondylotic myelopathy be treated with heat application?
Disease description:
I have a habit of getting an annual physical examination. During this year's check-up, I was diagnosed with cervical spondylosis. Further systematic examinations revealed that I have cervical spondylotic myelopathy. I've heard that heat therapy might be effective—can people with cervical spondylotic myelopathy use heat application?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Heat compression is acceptable. For cervical spondylotic myelopathy, applying a warm water bag daily can serve as a supplementary treatment. However, in the most severe form of cervical spondylosis affecting the spinal cord—where conditions such as fluid accumulation, herniated discs, and significant thickening and proliferation of the posterior longitudinal ligament cause marked narrowing of the spinal canal—the spinal cord becomes compressed. While using a warm water bag may improve blood circulation, especially in the spinal cord, it cannot eliminate the underlying cause.
