A recent infection (it is possible that this may have spread to the spinal cord) Recent back surgery Recent back trauma, such as an accident or other injury A history of cancer (sometimes cancer metastases can spread to the spine leading to compression of the nerve roots)
Your doctor may test your mobility and coordination by asking you to walk on your heels and toes. He or she will examine for pain when you bend forward, backward, and to each side. Your doctor will check your anal sensation and reflexes, as abnormalities here are key aspects of the diagnosis of CES.
A primary spine tumor or cancer metastases A herniated disc in your spine Bone spurs An infection that has gotten into your spinal cord A fracture of the spinal cord Narrowing of the spinal canal for any reason Inflammatory spinal disorders such as ankylosing spondylitis (inflammatory arthritis) Spinal hemorrhages
The contrast allows clear visualization as to whether there are any abnormalities or displacements in your spinal column. The myelogram may show herniated discs, bone spurs, or tumors, all of which may be responsible for causing CES.
Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) — This test will measure the speed of electrical impulse as it moves through the nerve. This test can determine if there is nerve damage and can how much. [13] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source The nerve will be stimulated by an electrode patch attached at one end and the electric impulse is recorded by another patch. [14] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source Electromyography (EMG) — This test is often done at the same time as an NCV and it measures the electrical activity in your muscles. [15] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
The surgery will consist of removing whatever material (such as a tumor, or an infection) that is compressing your spinal cord. [16] X Research source The goal is that, by treating the underlying cause (the cause of the spinal cord compression), the tension will be removed from your nerve roots, and you should hopefully be able to regain function.
Chronic pain — some people require long-term pain medications to ease ongoing nerve-related pain following CES. Bladder or bowel dysfunction — some people continue to struggle with bladder and/or bowel control, even after surgical resolution of their CES. (However, the good news here is that bladder and bowel function often improve in the years following surgery; it just may take longer to regain function than other affected areas. ) Sexual problems — patients are often advised to see a sex therapist for help if they are struggling to regain sexual function. Motor problems — problems walking or performing other movement tasks, particularly with your lower limbs.
