Damage to the spine or the nerves at the cauda equina, the ending of the spinal canal, can result in a spinal cord injury. This frequently permanently alters strength, sensation, and other bodily functions. If you’ve recently had a spinal cord injury, it could seem like your entire life has changed. Your injuries may have psychological, emotional, and social repercussions.

However, many people with spinal cord injuries can lead productive, independent lives thanks to therapies. A neurosurgeon can relieve any of these worries and make you feel better. It is important to note that back injuries and other spinal disorders can result in various symptoms, some of which you might not be aware of. Let us look at them:

Back or neck pain that doesn’t go away.

Not all spinal issues result in discomfort at the site of damage or injury, but some do. Slippage of the disc might result in pain or discomfort. If the vertebrae in the spine are rubbing against one another due to osteoarthritis, back or neck pain may result. Additionally, osteoporosis, a bone fragility disorder typically associated with aging, can result in painful, tiny vertebral fractures. If your back or neck pain doesn’t subside as quickly as expected after a little event, like slipping on ice, you should see a doctor.

Your spine’s alignment has changed.

Scoliosis is a spine-alignment disorder. While it’s true that scoliosis most frequently manifests in adolescence or preteenhood, it can also appear later in life as a result of arthritis or other degenerative conditions of the back. An S-shaped curve in the vertebrae is indicative of scoliosis. Scoliosis frequently causes the shoulders, waist, or hips to be out of alignment. It may also result in a lump on the back, either further down or in the area between the shoulder blades.

Your hands, feet, legs, or arms feel weakened or numb.

Your legs, feet, toes, arms, hands, and fingers may feel weak, numb, or tingly, indicating that your lower back (lumbar region) has a problem. This is because the nerves become squeezed as they pass through the spine from the brain to the legs or arms. You might also notice that your leg drops or occasionally gives out when climbing or descending steps. A herniated (slipped) disc, a bone spur, stenosis, or a spinal canal narrowing are possible causes of this.

Problematic bowel or bladder movement.

Cauda equina syndrome may manifest as numbness or tingling in the groin region and the inability to use the restroom normally. The nerves near the spinal column’s base become compressed, resulting in this disorder. This condition is uncommon, but if it does occur, getting help right away is crucial.

Changes in the agility of your hands and fingers.

Your neck and upper back vertebrae link your spinal column and the arms, hands, and fingers. Changes in the region can affect your capacity to carry out actions that require you to use your hands. For instance, some people with this problem have trouble with zippers or buttons.

The takeaway

A spinal specialist can conduct a physical examination and may suggest scans like X-rays, MRIs, or CTs to identify your spine problem.