Uncommon Common Back Pain: A Case of Cervical Myelopathy

Abstract

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), is a progressive disease that typically presents with mild, non-specific symptoms. Symptoms may include neck and low back pain, tingling, and numbness in the upper extremities, and as the disease advances, it may impair activities of daily living. Occasionally, OPLL can be misdiagnosed if imaging is analyzed without considering clinical findings. Therefore, the imaging results need to be correlated with a comprehensive history for diagnostic accuracy. In addition, an evaluation by a spinal specialist should be considered for persistent symptoms to further correlation between imaging and clinical presentation.