Cervical Stenosis
Cervical stenosis means the spaces inside the neck portion of the spine have become narrower, which can crowd the spinal cord or the nerves that branch from it. It is common with age and often shows up on imaging.
Many people describe a stiff, achy neck with pain, tingling, or heaviness that spreads into the shoulder or arm.
About cervical stenosis
The narrowing can come from age-related changes in the discs, joints, and ligaments of the neck.
Imaging findings and symptoms do not always match. Some people with clear narrowing feel little, and others have significant discomfort. A healthcare provider can tell you what your imaging means for you.
Common symptoms
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Pain, tingling, or numbness in the shoulder, arm, or hand
- A feeling of heaviness or weakness in an arm
- Headaches that start at the base of the skull
- Discomfort that builds with looking up or turning the head
Common causes
- Age-related changes in discs and joints
- Thickened ligaments
- Bone spurs
- Prior neck injury or surgery
- Long-standing arthritis in the spine
How High-Pressure Cryotherapy (HPC) may help
High-Pressure Cryotherapy (HPC) uses high-pressure carbon dioxide (CO₂) to rapidly cool the skin over a specific treatment area. For cervical stenosis, treatment goes on the sore areas, often the neck and the tops of the shoulders. HPC does not widen the spinal canal and does not claim to. For many people it may help manage pain and inflammation in the surrounding muscles and soft tissue, though results vary. A typical series is 4 to 5 sessions, then we reassess. Many patients report relief after one or two visits, although individual responses may vary. If there is no meaningful improvement after the series, see a qualified healthcare provider. HPC does not widen the spinal canal. It treats the sore area, and for many people it may help manage pain and inflammation.
Every treatment begins with a free consultation. Typical treatment takes about 3–6 minutes per area. HPC is not a substitute for medical care and does not replace a diagnosis.
A drug-free, needle-free option
No drugs. No needles. No incisions. No downtime. And we only treat if we think we can help.
Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Can HPC fix cervical stenosis?
No. HPC does not change the narrowing in the spine. It treats the sore area, and for many people it may help with pain and inflammation. Results vary.
Is it safe if I have numbness, weakness, or trouble with balance or hand coordination?
New or worsening numbness, arm or leg weakness, clumsy hands, trouble walking, or changes in bladder or bowel control need prompt medical evaluation first. Please talk to your healthcare provider, and we will review your history with you at a free consultation.
How soon can I be seen?
Same-day appointments are often available at our Mineola and Rockville Centre locations. Book online or call and we will find the earliest time that works for you.
How many visits might I need?
For most people, we recommend an initial series of four to five sessions, then we check how you are doing. Many patients report relief after one or two visits, although individual responses may vary. Your plan depends on your situation, and we review how you are doing along the way. Results vary.
What does a visit cost?
The first treatment area is $90, with lower prices for additional areas, and discounted packages are available at our Rockville Centre location. See our pricing page for details.
This page is educational and is not medical advice. Individual results vary.
Related conditions
Neck Pain
Pain and stiffness involving the cervical spine.
Learn more →Pinched Nerve in the Neck
Irritation of a nerve root in the neck that can cause pain, tingling, or numbness into the shoulder, arm, or hand.
Learn more →Cervical Disc Degeneration
Age-related wear of the discs in the neck that can cause stiffness and neck, shoulder, or arm discomfort.
Learn more →What patients say
Mineola
Rockville Centre
Reviews are provided by Google. Individual experiences and results vary.
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