Cervical myelopathy secondary to movement disorders: case report

Abstract

Involuntary cervical movements that result in cervical spondylosis and secondary myelopathy have not been adequately emphasized in the literature. We present two patients with cerebral palsy and long histories of involuntary movements who developed cervical myelopathy. We use these illustrative cases to emphasize that in the presence of underlying neurological symptoms and signs due to advanced cerebral palsy, any recent worsening should provoke a higher index of suspicion for myelopathy. The mechanics of neck movements and surgical treatment are discussed.