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Does Cervical Spinal Stenosis Cause Unsteady Hands?
Question: Ok I have congenital cervical spinal stenosis c-3 -c-5 7mm width I being treated for it injections physical therapy and meds but I have noticed in the past three months that my handwriting has gotten horrible I also have herniated discs too but can it cause your hands to be so unsteady I know that area controls diaphragm and breathing but can it actually affect your hands?? They tremble I'm barely able to type this. Please a word of advice....
Brief Answer:
Cervical nerves also supply the upper limb.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query on HealthcareMagic.
The spinal nerves emanating from the cervical spine supplies the diaphragm.
However, besides the diaphragm the cervical nerves also supply the arm, forearm and hands.
The cervical nerves form a network of nerves called brachial plexus.
This network runs the upper limb via the axilla.
As you have mentioned that you are experiencing herniation of discs at the cervical level, these herniating discs seem to be compressing the cervical nerves.
Difficulty in writing could be due the compression of the cervical nerves.
You need to consult your treating doctor for management of herniating discs.
Herniating discs are managed conservatively initially.
If conservative measures do not work, surgical treatment is required.
If you have more queries, I will be glad to answer.
Dr Shailja P Wahal
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Thank you for answering my question, however how long should I let conventional treatment continue? Months, years, how long do I have before I can't write at all I used to draw beautiful pictures now I can barely sign my name. I can no longer put on jewelry because my fingers and hands are jerking around so much and shaking . I see my pain management Dr tomorrow so I will discuss it with him as I well it's just always nice to have that second opinion. Thank you for your time.
Brief Answer:
Clinical examination & inv. required for diagnosis
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome again,
A clinical assessment is mandatory to come to any conclusion.
Herniation of the discs are managed by rest initially.
If these discs do not get replaced to their original place, surgical intervention may be required.
This is one possibility for the symptoms, however, these symptoms may be caused by other reasons.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
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