Recognizing the Signs of Spinal Tumors and When to See a Specialist

Spinal tumors are a common occurrence, but they aren’t always detected in the early stages. Knowing what to look for can help you know when to see a specialist and facilitate prompt treatment. 

Residents throughout Chicago and Northwest Indiana have an excellent resource in board-certified spine surgeon Dr. Mohammad S. Shukairy, who has offices in Highland and Merrillville, Indiana.

People who partner with Dr. Shukairy appreciate his warm nature and attention to detail, as well as his willingness to educate them on all available treatment options. 

We’re happy to share some information about the signs of spinal tumors and how to respond if you’re worried about your spinal health. 

What are spinal tumors?

A tumor is a mass of cells that are replicating at a higher-than-normal rate. Tumors can develop anywhere in the body, but spinal tumors are found on the vertebrae, spinal cord, or the tissues surrounding the spinal cord. 

Your spine begins at the base of your skull and extends down to your tailbone. A flexible cylindrical structure, the spine provides structural support for your body and enables a vast array of movements. Your spinal cord also works to transmit sensory data between your body and brain. 

Because there are so many different tissue types within your spine, many types of spinal tumors are possible. 

The vast majority of spinal tumors are the result of cancer that has metastasized (spread) from another part of your body. But it’s also possible to develop primary tumors in the spine, which are not linked to any form of cancer. 

How do I know if I have one or more spinal tumors?

Not all spinal tumors create symptoms. In fact, many spinal tumors are only found when a patient comes in for something else, and imaging reveals the presence of spinal tumors. 

When symptoms are present, the primary sign of a spinal tumor is back pain. However, many people assume this pain is caused by an old injury or a recent back strain episode. 

Additional signs of a spinal tumor include:

• Abnormal reflexes
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of sensation within the spine
• Urinary or bowel incontinence
• Weakness or numbness in the chest, arms, or legs
• Mobility challenges
• Curved spine

These symptoms can be steady or come and go over time. They can range in severity from mild to debilitating. 

Don’t ignore pain or other changes in how your body feels and functions

Pain is the body’s way of warning you that something is amiss. 

Immediate back pain lets you know that you’ve pushed too hard or that something is damaging your soft tissues. Deferred back pain (a day or so later) lets you know you’ve strained your body. Pain that lingers for weeks or longer is a sign that you may have damaged one or more components of your spine. 

Consider a weekend spent helping a friend move. You might feel a sharp pain if you try to lift a heavy piece of furniture or twist your spine in an abnormal manner. The next day, you might experience soreness or stiffness in your back. If you’ve pinched a nerve in your spine or developed a ruptured disc, pain can last for many weeks without intervention. 

Paying close attention to these signals is the best way to avoid serious spinal issues. In the case of spinal tumors, acting promptly when symptoms develop can help you get the treatment you need in the early stages, when tumors can often be successfully removed. 

Spinal tumors have several possible treatment paths

Treating spinal tumors depends on the type of tumor and the location within your spine. In cases where cancer has spread and caused tumor growth, treating the cancer is the first priority. 

Chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery are all common approaches in treating various forms of cancer. 

In the case of primary tumors (those not caused by cancer), surgical removal is a preferred approach once the tumor is creating symptoms, although in some cases, simply monitoring the progression of the tumor is the recommended action. 

When you rely on Dr. Shukairy for your spine health needs, you’ll have time to discuss all available treatment paths and what to expect with each. 

Helping patients across Northwest Indiana and Chicago with effective and individualized care is our primary goal. Schedule a visit online or by phone.