is surgical treatment the only option for this?
Yes.
Syringomyelia
Surgery is the treatment for syringomyelia. 
what is the average age of a king charles cavalier UNANSWERABLE what exactly is this? The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small breed of spaniel classed in the toy group of The Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club, that originated in the United Kingdom. how popular is it? According to statistics released by The Kennel Club, Cavaliers were the sixth most popular dog in the United Kingdom in 2007 . when was the above club established? 1873. what are some of their programs? "Get Fit With Fido". do they have a trust? Yes, the Kennel Club Charitable Trust. which artist contribute top their gallery? Maud Earl, George Earl, Richard Ansdell, Arthur Wardle and Cecil Aldin. what is the aforementioned breed's personality like? The breed is highly affectionate, playful, extremely patient and eager to please. which diseases are they prone to? Mitral valve disease, syringomyelia, hip dysplasia, luxating patella, cataracts, retinal dysplasia and others. what are the symptoms of the second disease? Severe chronic pain, abnormal sensations and loss of sensation, particularly in the hands. how is it diagnosed? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
wiki:19615204
Syringomyelia [SEP] Surgery
The first step after diagnosis is finding a neurosurgeon who is experienced in the treatment of syringomyelia. Surgery is the treatment for syringomyelia. Evaluation of the condition is necessary because syringomyelia can remain stationary for long periods of time, and in some cases progress rapidly. Surgery of the spinal cord has certain characteristic risks associated with it, and the benefits of a surgical procedure on the spine have to be weighed against the possible complications associated with any procedure. Surgical treatment is aimed at correcting the condition that allowed the syrinx to form. It is vital to bear in mind that the drainage of a syrinx does not necessarily mean the elimination of the syrinx-related symptoms but rather is aimed at stopping progression.