Spinal tumors are abnormal growths that form in or around the spine, originating from the spine or spreading from other areas (metastasis). They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), affecting bones, the spinal cord, or surrounding tissues. Depending on their size and location, spinal tumors may cause symptoms such as pain, neurological issues, and mobility loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Symptoms of Spinal Tumors
The symptoms of spinal tumors can vary depending on their size, location, and whether they are compressing the spinal cord or nerves. Common symptoms include:
- Back or neck pain: Persistent, localized pain is often the first symptom of a spinal tumor. Pain may worsen over time and may radiate to other parts of the body, such as the arms or legs, depending on the location of the tumor.
- Neurological symptoms: Tumors that press on the spinal cord or nerves can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, or even paralysis in the affected areas.
- Loss of bowel or bladder control: In more advanced cases, spinal tumors can interfere with the nerves that control bowel and bladder function, leading to incontinence.
- Difficulty walking: As tumors grow and compress nerves or spinal structures, patients may experience difficulty walking, poor coordination, or balance issues.