The spinal cord is the primary connection between the brain and the rest of the body. Every nerve in the body communicates with the brain via the spinal cord; it’s like your body’s super-highway. Any damage to the spinal cord, no matter how minor it may seem, can wreak havoc on the body as a whole.
When the spinal cord is pressed on by some other structure, it is termed compressed. This can be the result of an array of causes, but whatever the cause, spinal cord compression is a medical emergency.
When the spinal cord is compressed for any reason, messages from your brain to your body and vice versa are interrupted, similar to the flow of cars stopping or slowing when there is a traffic jam. The nerves will fail to work normally and there will be symptoms, which depend on which part of the spine is being squeezed.
There is an array of symptoms that suggest compression and these include back pain, weakness, altered sensations in any part of the body, difficulty walking, paralysis of limbs, incontinence, and difficulty urinating. Symptoms may come on suddenly, or more gradually.
When a person has cord compression, fast diagnosis and treatment is critical to avoid permanent damage and disability.
This disorder is diagnosed using X-rays, with MRI of the entire spine being the best option. Treatment will depend on the cause, and may include steroid injections and anti-inflammatory drugs; physical therapy, radiation therapy (if the cause is cancer); and surgery.
If you have spinal cord compression, you deserve experienced surgeons to provide comprehensive spine care. Dr. Ezriel Kornel and Dr. Krishn Sharma can help you overcome the pain of your condition. Please contact us or call (914) 351-3600 to schedule a consultation appointment today!
