Spinal Tumor

Being diagnosed with a spinal tumor is scary, but there are various treatments that can relieve pain, encourage mobility, and improve your quality of life. At Alabama Neurological Surgery & Spine in Birmingham, Alabama, the board-certified neurosurgeons offer complete care for cancerous and noncancerous spinal tumors. Call the office to request a spinal tumor consultation today, or make an appointment online.

What is a spinal tumor?

A spinal tumor is an abnormal growth that forms in your spinal canal or the bones of your spine (vertebrae). 

Alabama Neurological Surgery & Spine treats both types of spinal tumors:

Intramedullary tumors

These tumors begin in the cells of the spinal cord. 

Extramedullary tumors

These tumors begin in the nerve roots that reach out from the spinal cord or in the membrane surrounding the spinal cord. 

As extramedullary tumors grow, they may press on the structures in your spine, including your nerves or intervertebral discs.

What are the symptoms of a spinal tumor?

Symptoms of a spinal tumor may include:

• Back pain
• Muscle weakness
• Pain at the tumor site due to growth
• Difficulty walking
• Bladder or bowel incontinence

You may experience loss of sensation in your arms or legs, depending on the location of the tumor.

When should I see a neurosurgeon about a spinal tumor?

Make an appointment at Alabama Neurological Surgery & Spine if you have unexplained back pain that lasts for more than a few days. That’s especially true if the pain gets progressively worse, isn’t activity-related, and flares up at night.

How is a spinal tumor diagnosed?

Your Alabama Neurological Surgery & Spine provider reviews your health charts and asks about your symptoms, including when they started and what they feel like.

Next, they complete a physical and neurological exam, gently pressing on your back to identify sensitive areas and checking your reflexes, muscle strength, and ability to feel different sensations.

Last, your provider orders an MRI of your spine. An MRI is an imaging procedure that captures photos of your spine, spinal cord, and nerves. It can pinpoint the location of your tumor, determine its size, and help guide treatment.

How is a spinal tumor treated?

Treatment of a spinal tumor depends on various factors, including its location, if it’s cancerous, and the growth’s effect on your quality of life. Alabama Neurological Surgery & Spine may recommend:

• Monitoring the tumor with routine checkups and MRIs
• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Corticosteroids to reduce swelling

Call Alabama Neurological Surgery & Spine to request a spinal tumor consultation today, or make an appointment online.