By:- Dr. Biplab Das, Director – Neurology & Interventional Neuroradiology, Batra Hospital
The spine is vital to the health and function of the human body. It houses the spinal cord and protects it from injury, as well as provides structural support for the spleen. It is the main way that information travels between the brain and around the rest of your body through nerve signals. Whenever the spine or nervous system is even mildly disturbed, it can result in problems such as pain, limitation in movement, sensations of tingling or numbness, inability to properly coordinate your movements, etc. These types of problems at the spine and/or with the nerves are not just found in people over the age of 60; they are now becoming increasingly common in younger adults due to so many of the lifestyle choices we make today.
Cervical or lumbar spondylosis, herniated or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease are some of the most common conditions affecting the spine. These types of problems often develop gradually with symptoms typically present as mild stiffness, intermittent back/neck pain or some discomfort from sitting too long. As the problem continues to worsen, compressed or irritated nerves may also develop, which then causes other symptoms that the person with the problem will experience as being very annoying and sometimes debilitating such as: an unexpected tingling sensation; numbness; shooting pain traveling down their arms or legs; muscle weakness; and a lack of stability or coordination while walking. If the spinal disorder continues to go untreated, permanent nerve damage or loss of bladder/bowel control may occur.
There are many potential causes of nerve disorders (e.g., diabetes, infections, trauma, inflammation, and compression due to spinal abnormalities). Peripheral Neuropathy, radiculopathy, and nerve entrapment syndromes often cause burning sensations, altered sensation, or decreased strength in the affected area(s). Due to the misdirection of nerve peripheral pain, patients often delay seeking treatment, thinking that the pain will heal on its own; therefore, this delay is one of the biggest contributors to poor outcomes for these patients.
Establishing an accurate diagnosis and implementing treatment can be very important to the long-term treatment of problems with the spine and/or nerves. Imaging studies, including MRI and CT scans, as well as digital subtraction angiography, may be used to identify the site of the nerve compression and/or the pain. Neurophysiological testing can be used to assess nerve function and damage. The earlier that nerve compression is diagnosed, the sooner targeted treatment can begin before permanent changes occur.
Over the last few years, significant changes have occurred in the treatment of disorders related to the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves due to advances in neurology and interventional neuroradiology. The majority of patients who previously required extensive open surgery to treat their conditions can now receive treatment through minimally invasive image-guided techniques. Minimally invasive image-guided techniques will result in less damage to surrounding tissues, lower complications, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery time than traditional open surgical techniques. In selected cases, the use of specific pain management techniques and targeted nerve injections may provide long-term relief and improve function.
In addition, prevention and long-term care for the spine is also very important. Maintaining correct posture, exercising regularly, strengthening the muscles of the abdomen and lower back, and creating ergonomically sound work environments can significantly reduce the stress placed on the spine. Paying close attention to the body’s early warning signs and seeking the advice of a qualified professional rather than self-treating is critical.
Spinal and nerve conditions should never be overlooked or considered normal. Most people who suffer from spinal and nerve conditions can experience significant relief and preserve their neurological health if they seek prompt evaluation and intervention with the latest diagnostic approaches and customised treatment plans. The most effective method to protect the spine is to be aware of the body’s warning signs and to take immediate action.