As the name implies, spinal cord compression is a condition that develops when a structure is putting abnormal force on the spinal cord. The spinal cord is a connection of nerves that sends signals to your brain, and if it becomes compressed, these nerves can send pain signals or inhibit normal movement. Today, we take a look at why this condition sets in, what types of symptoms it can cause and how Dr. Chang would treat it.
Causes and Symptoms of Spinal Cord Compression
Mechanically speaking, spinal cord compression occurs when a bone or other structure puts pressure on the spinal cord, compressing it. But some specific conditions that cause spinal cord compression include:
- Osteoarthritis of the spine
- Scoliosis or another spinal alignment disorder
- Acute spinal injury
- Spinal tumor
- Herniated spinal disc
- Infections
Symptoms of spinal cord compression can vary based on the cause of injury. Some types of compression can cause quick symptoms, while others can develop slowly over time. Some of the most common symptoms of spinal cord compression include pain or stiffness in the spine, a burning or shooting pain that spreads to the arms and legs, numbness, muscle weakness, inhibited gait and difficulty with hand coordination. If the compression occurs in the lumbar spine region, you may also experience severe pain and weakness, as well as loss of bladder function, and these are signs that you should seek immediate medical attention.
Diagnosing and Treating Spinal Cord Compression
Spinal cord compression can be diagnosed with the help of a skilled spinal specialist. They will do this by conducting a physical exam and asking you questions about where pain is housed and what activities cause pain flareups. The physical exam will give the specialist a good idea of what may be causing the pain, and they’ll likely confirm their suspicions with the help of imaging techniques like an X-ray, CT scan or MRI. These imaging tests will reveal where the compression is located and what structures are causing the compression, which helps the doctor formulate some treatment techniques.
Treatment options for spinal cord compression vary based on what is causing the compression. Some people may notice a reduction in symptoms simply by taking anti-inflammatory medication if their compression was caused by localized swelling. Others may find it helpful to partake in an exercise routine or physical therapy routine which can strengthen areas of the spine and free compressed structures. Exercising and stretching are also great ways to prevent spinal cord compression from developing in the first place.
If conservative treatments don’t take care of the compression, surgery may be your best option. Oftentimes these operations can be performed with a minimally invasive technique to minimize scarring. Your specific operation will depend on your unique case, but oftentimes these procedures are performed to remove compressing bone spurs or to widen the space between vertebrae. Your doctor will walk you through the specifics should you reach this point in treatment.
So if you are dealing with sharp or radiating pain in your back or arms and you think it may be caused by compression on your spinal cord, reach out to Dr. Chang’s office today to set up an evaluation.