transverse myelopathy

transverse myelopathy (tranz·versˑ mī·lôˑ·p·thē),

n an inflammation of the spinal cord that extends across the width of the thick cord of nervous tissue; considered a potential complication of an acupuncture treatment as a result of the insertion of a needle into the paraspinal musculature that pierces the spinal cord. Sensory and motor dysfunction in portions of the trunk and extremities receiving signals from those affected nerves—at or beneath the point of insertion—is related to the condition. Motor, sensory, bowel, and sexual dysfunctions are common manifestations. Also called
TM.