Spinal cord tumors are abnormal cells that grow in the spinal cord, a spinal tumor is a growth that develops within the vertebral canal or within the bones of the spine between its protective sheaths, or on the surface of the sheath that covers the spinal cord. The spinal cord contains bundles of nerve fibers that are well protected inside the vertebra (backbone) which transmit messages from the brain throughout the body and viceversa, a tumor on or near the spinal cord can disrupt communication, impair function, and cause serious health concerns. Spinal cord tumors are of two types primary and secondary – Primary spinal cord tumors develop from the spinal cord rather than spreading from other parts of the body. The primary spinal cord tumors are usually non-cancerous, and rarely cancerous, and does not spread to other parts of the body. Primary spinal cord tumors can affect people of all ages but are seen commonly in young and middle-aged adults.
The spinal cord is more sensitive to the consequences of radiation than brain tissue, particularly the thoracic spinal cord segments in the area of the ribs where about half all spinal cord tumors occur are very sensitive to radiation’s effects. With all kinds of spinal cord tumors, corticosteroid drugs also are prescribed to reduce spinal cord swelling. Physiotherapy is also needed to assist the individual to regain muscle control and strength after radiation or surgery. The prognosis will depend on where the tumor on the spinal cord is located, the kind of tumor, and also the size of the tumor at the time of diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to restoring function and preventing permanent damage to the spinal cord.
Back pain or neck pain is a common problem and is rarely a symptom of the spinal tumor, but evaluation by a neurologist is essential if there’s persistent pain or pain in the back which is worsening, and if the pain keeps one awake in the night. If one is experiencing numbness, tingling or weakness visit the neurologist at once especially if one has had cancer in the previously. If one has chronic back or neck pain that hasn’t responded to conventional treatments it may be time to seek out a spine surgeon. If one is searching for the best neurosurgeon in Bangalore Dr. Venugopal S is one among the leading neurosurgeons in Bangalore having experience over a decade of treating various brain and spine diseases.
For more information about problems associated with the spine contact Dr. Venugopal S. Or Visit us www.neurosurgerybangalore.com Call us on+91 9353884928
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