Spinal Cord Compression Specialists in Perungudi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

What is Spinal Cord Compression?

Spinal cord compression occurs when pressure is applied to the spinal cord from a nearby structure, such as a herniated disc, bone spur, tumour, infection, or traumatic injury, disrupting the normal transmission of nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. It can develop gradually, as with degenerative spinal conditions, or suddenly, as with trauma or an expanding tumour, and the resulting neurological damage can become permanent if not treated promptly. The severity and pattern of symptoms depend on the exact level and degree of compression along the spinal cord. It is considered a neurosurgical emergency when it develops or worsens rapidly.

Causes of Spinal Cord Compression

Common causes include degenerative spine disease such as severe disc herniation or spinal stenosis, spinal tumours either primary or metastatic, traumatic injury from accidents or falls, and infections such as spinal abscess. Risk factors include osteoporosis, prior spinal surgery, cancer with a tendency to spread to bone, and age-related degenerative changes. The compression physically restricts blood flow and nerve conduction within the cord.

Symptoms of Spinal Cord Compression

Progressive weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, pain in the neck or back that may radiate, difficulty walking or loss of coordination, loss of bladder or bowel control, altered sensation such as tingling or burning, muscle spasms, in severe cases, paralysis

Treatment & Types of Spinal Cord Compression in Perungudi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Emergency cases, particularly from trauma or rapidly progressive tumour compression, require urgent surgical decompression to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and prevent permanent damage, often combined with corticosteroids to reduce swelling. Chronic degenerative compression is managed with physical therapy, pain control, and surgery such as laminectomy or discectomy if symptoms are significant or progressive. Treatment of the underlying cause, such as radiation or chemotherapy for tumour-related compression, is essential alongside decompression.

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