Most neck pain occurs due to disintegration or the intervertebral discs and stenosis or narrowing of the cervical canal of the neck. Stenosis can cause narrowing of the nerve foramina or canals in the spine leading to pinched and compressed nerves, as explained by "The Spine Journal." Degenerative changes in the cervical spine can be caused by spondylosis or arthritis of the spine, injury and wear and tear causing bone spurs that narrow the vertebral canal. The University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC, lists symptoms of cervical canal stenosis such as pain, numbness and tingling sensations. Consult a physician for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Pain
Cervical stenosis does not always cause pain according to the UMMC. However, in many cases pain will occur in the neck, shoulders, upper back and radiating down into the arms, hands, legs or feet. Pain may be felt directly at the site of vertebral degeneration or referred to as nerve pain in other areas of the body. In some cases of cervical stenosis, pain can become debilitating and cause loss of mobility and movement.
Tingling
Pressure on the nerves in vertebral canal can cause tingling sensations in the hands, arms and legs. Cervical stenosis can cause a nerve condition called cervical myelopathy that involves symptoms such as tingling feelings in the limbs, as described by the SpineUniverse website.
Numbness and Weakness
Cervical canal stenosis can compress the spinal cord, hindering nerve impulses that travel to the limbs. This can cause muscle weakness, spasms and loss of control in the legs. Numbness may also occur in the legs, feet, arms and hands, slowing down reflexes or causing erratic and fast reflexes. According to the MayoClinic.com, in some cases 'position sense' that helps automatically coordinate body movement can also decrease. This can make walking, jogging and running difficult and cause falls when standing.
Incontinence
A pinched, damaged or compressed nerve in the cervical region of the spine can also cause bowel and bladder problems, says MayoClinic.com. This occurs when there is interference with the nerve messages to contract the muscles of the bowels or bladder. Symptoms include complete or partial incontinence or the loss of sensation to urinate or control bowel emptying.
