Figure 2.

Timeline of potential application of contemporary interventions (neuroprotection, neuromodulation and neuroregeneration) according to natural history and severity of degenerative cervical myelopathy. In mild-moderate degenerative cervical myelopathy, neuroprotective strategies may prevent/slow down progression by interfering in pathological process. In severe degenerative cervical myelopathy, it is likely that the spinal cord is too damaged for there to be significant improvement gained from neuroprotective strategies. In moderate-severe cases, surgery will remove the focus of compression. At this stage, neuromodulatory strategies may enhance plasticity implicated in the recovery process and neuroregenerative strategies can be considered after the spine has been decompressed if significant neurological damage is present. Graphics produced with support of Myelopathy.org.