Several potential causes of spinal cord compression exist, including trauma, bony growths, cancer and swelling. When the cervical spinal cord is compressed, regardless of cause, a similar set of symptoms occurs. These symptoms may be mild or severe, depending on the level of compression. Early recognition of cervical spinal cord compression symptoms increases the likelihood of stopping more damage from occurring or reversing symptoms altogether.
Pain
Pain is a common early symptom of spinal cord compression. According to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, spinal cord compression pain ranges from minor discomfort to severe radiating pain, depending on the degree of nerve damage or disruption. It may be localized (close to the site of injury), or it may radiate down a nerve or nerves to other areas of the body. Cervical spinal cord compression may cause pain close to the site of compression in the shoulder or upper arm; however, pain may also shoot down to the hands or fingers.
Sensory Changes
Pressure on the spinal cord can also change the way the brain interprets how things feel. Because the cervical spine contains nerves that detect sensations in the upper extremities, people with cervical spinal cord compression may notice tingling or numbness in their shoulders, arms or hands. Changes in sensation may range from occasional pins and needles to complete numbness, depending on the degree of compression. In cases of severe cervical spinal cord compression, a person may even lose feeling in the lower body, including the legs and feet.
Muscle Weakness
When spinal cord compression involves motor nerves (the nerves that supply the muscles), muscles may be weak or incapacitated. With cervical spinal cord compression, muscle weakness depends on the level of injury. A high cervical spinal cord compression might cause the muscles that lift the arms to be weak, while a lower cervical compression may cause a weaker grip. If the spinal cord compression is severe, the muscles in the lower body may also be involved. In some cases, a person may be partially or completely paralyzed below the level of injury.
Muscle Spasms
Muscle spasticity occurs when a muscle has more tone than usual. When spinal cord nerves are compressed, they may cause certain muscles to flex or tighten. These spastic muscles may remain "frozen" in a certain position or may simply take longer than usual to relax. Muscle spasms may also occur. Depending on the degree of cervical spinal cord compression as well as the level of the injury, spasticity may affect the muscles of the arms, legs or both.
Bowel and Bladder Issues
In some cases, spinal cord compression may affect how the bowel and bladder function. According to Medline Plus, bowel and bladder issues resulting from spinal cord damage (including compression) range from constipation to incontinence. Some people with spinal cord compression may require the use of a catheter to empty their bladder or a suppository to empty their bowels.
