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Complex Spine Disorders
Complex spine disorders involve a range of problems – including infections, tumors, and spine instability. On this page, we have highlighted the most common ailments that affect our patients.
Infections
Spinal infections are extremely rare. They can develop in the vertebral bones, vertebral discs, and/or in the areas between the spinal cord and the surrounding bones.
Spinal Instability Or Spondylolisthesis
Spinal instability involves the abnormal movement between two vertebrae. This condition often develops due to disc degeneration.
Signs + Symptoms
- Back pain that begins slowly and gradually intensifies
- Weakness, tingling, or numbness in the arms or legs
- Fever and chills
- Headache
Signs + Symptoms
- Significant back pain
- Back spasms
- Decreased walking tolerance
- Locking up of the back
- Sciatica
Our Treatment Approach
For most patients, we can treat the infection with antibiotics, bracing, and rest. However, severe cases may require surgery to successfully clear the infection and prevent complications.
Conservative And Progressive
Our approach to treating spinal instability typically begins with conservative measures – a blend of physical therapy to strengthen your muscles, pain medication to relieve discomfort, and activity modifications. We will also refer you to one of our pain management specialists to possibly receive an epidural steroid injection. If these measures are ineffective and your symptoms persist, surgery may be necessary to completely resolve the problem.
Tumors
Most spinal cord tumors are secondary masses, which means the cancer originated elsewhere in the body. When the tumor in the spine is a primary mass, it is usually benign.
Surgery is typically required to treat a spine tumor if it is causing instability of the spine or compression on nerves that is causing weakness, difficulty walking, or bowel and bladder problems. With some spine tumors, the surgery will need to be followed by radiation or chemotherapy.
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