Spinal cord compression

Spinal Cord Compression

Spinal cord compression (/ˈspaɪnəl kɔːrd kəmˈprɛʃən/) is a serious condition where the spinal cord is put under pressure. This pressure can be caused by various medical conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated disc, or tumors. The term originates from the Latin spina meaning "thorn" and cordis meaning "heart", referring to the central role of the spinal cord in the body's nervous system.

Causes

Spinal cord compression can be caused by a number of conditions, including:

Spinal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine.
Herniated disc: This condition occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing.
Tumors: Both cancerous and noncancerous growths can cause spinal cord compression.

Symptoms

Symptoms of spinal cord compression can vary greatly depending on the severity and location of the compression. Common symptoms include:

Pain and stiffness in the neck, back, or lower back
Burning pain that spreads to the arms or legs
Numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
Muscle weakness
Difficulty with balance and coordination

Treatment

Treatment for spinal cord compression depends on the cause of the compression and the severity of the symptoms. Treatment options may include:

Physical therapy: This can help to relieve pain and improve strength and mobility.
Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and narcotic pain medications may be used to manage pain.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the source of the compression.

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Spinal cord compression