Spinal Cord Compression

Spinal cord compression occurs due to any condition that may put pressure on the spinal cord. This could take place due to bone fragments from a fracture of the vertebrae pressing on the spinal cord, or due to a ruptured disc between the vertebrae putting pressure on the spinal cord. Spinal cord compression may also be caused by blood clots due to bleeding disorders, pus (abscesses) , swelling due to a spinal cord injury, and cancerous or non-cancerous tumours. The compression may take place anywhere along the spinal cord, from the neck to the lower spine.

The risk for a spinal cord compression is higher for people who generally use poor lifting techniques, have to lift heavy weights frequently by virtue of their jobs, or those suffering from osteoarthritis .

When to seek expert advise

Consult our Orthopaedic Surgery or Neuro Surgery experts if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening back or neck pain that affects daily activities.

• Unexplained numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities.

• Loss of bladder or bowel control, which may suggest a medical emergency.

• Sudden onset of difficulty walking or maintaining balance.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible neurological damage.