What is syringomyelia?
Syringomyelia is a rare disorder in which fluid-filled cysts called a syrinx forms within the spinal cord. As the syrinx expands and lengthens over time, it compresses and damages part of the spinal cord from its centre outward.
What causes syringomyelia?
The main cause for this condition is believed to be associated with Chiari malformation, which is when the lower part of the brain shifts down into the spinal canal.
What are the symptoms of syringomyelia?
Symptoms of syringomyelia include:
- A progressive weakness and pain in the back, shoulder, legs or arms
- An inability to feel hot or cold
- A loss of pain sensation
- Difficulty walking
- Bowel and bladder function problems
- Facial pain and numbness
- Curvature of the spine, or sclorosis
