Spinal Compression: Signs and Treatment Options

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Spinal compression, also known as spinal cord compression, occurs when there is pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. It can be caused by various factors, including herniated discs, bone spurs, spinal tumors, or spinal stenosis. A compressed spinal cord can result in pain, loss of sensation, and weakness in the affected area. Continue reading to learn more about the signs of spinal compression and the treatment options available.

1. Signs of spinal compression:

- Pain. One of the most common signs of spinal compression is localized or radiating pain. Your pain may be sharp, dull, or throbbing and can occur in the neck, back, arms, or legs, depending on the location of the compression.

- Numbness or tingling. Spinal compression can cause a loss of sensation or abnormal sensations, such as tingling or pins and needles, in the areas supplied by the affected nerves. This numbness or tingling sensation may extend from your neck or back down to the upper and lower extremities.

- Weakness. Compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots can lead to weakness in specific muscle groups or generalized weakness in the arms or legs. In severe cases, it can cause difficulty walking or performing daily activities.

- Changes in reflexes. Spinal compression can also affect your reflexes. Reflexes may become exaggerated or diminished in the areas supplied by the compressed nerves.

- Loss of coordination. In some cases, spinal compression can cause a loss of coordination and balance. This may result in stumbling, difficulty with fine motor skills, or an unsteady gait.

2. Treatment options for spinal compression:

- Medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or pain medications may be prescribed to manage pain and reduce inflammation associated with spinal compression. These medications aim to provide temporary relief and improve the quality of life.

- Physical therapy.  Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of spinal compression. A physical therapist can create a customized training program to strengthen the muscles that surround the spine, increase flexibility, and foster better posture. Physical therapy can also aid with pain relief, range of motion restoration, and overall function.

- Epidural steroid injections. Epidural steroid injections can provide short-term pain relief by reducing inflammation around the compressed nerves. These injections deliver a combination of corticosteroids and local anesthetics directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots.

- Surgical intervention. If conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if there is progressive neurological deterioration, spinal decompression surgery may be necessary. The type of surgery will depend on the underlying cause of the spinal compression. Common surgical procedures include:

- Discectomy which entails the removal of the herniated portion of a disc that is pressing on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

- Spinal fusion which works by joining two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

- Laminectomy involving the removal of the lamina, the back part of the vertebra, to create more space for the spinal cord and nerve roots.

- Radiation therapy or chemotherapy used to shrink or control the growth of tumors that are causing compression. These treatments aim to reduce pressure on the spinal cord and alleviate associated symptoms.

The bottom line

Spinal compression can cause significant pain, numbness, weakness, and functional limitations. Recognizing the signs of spinal compression is crucial for early intervention and proper treatment. Depending on the severity and underlying cause, your treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, or surgical intervention. Always seek professional medical advice to determine the most suitable treatment approach and improve your quality of life.