Trans-synaptic degeneration of motoneurons distal to chronic cervical spinal cord compression in cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

In CSM patients, the motor units below the level of compression may exhibit dysfunction, which is likely a result of trans-synaptic degeneration. Both cervical spinal cord compressive injury and this trans-synaptic degeneration contribute to the impairment of fine motor ability in CSM patients. Therefore, treatment and rehabilitation efforts should account for these two dysfunctions.