Atypical Presentation of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A Case Report.

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a progressive condition most caused by degenerative changes that lead to spinal canal stenosis and characteristic neurologic deficits involving both upper and lower extremities. We report an atypical presentation of DCM manifesting exclusively as new-onset lower extremity weakness following lumbar decompression surgery, without neck pain or upper extremity symptoms. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for cervical myelopathy and performing whole-spine imaging in patients with unexplained postoperative neurologic deficits.