Spinal Cord Diseases

 

Spinal cord diseases are a group of neurological conditions that affect the spinal cord, disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body. These disorders can lead to weakness, loss of sensation, impaired movement, and changes in bodily functions depending on the severity and location of the damage.

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Types of Spinal Cord Diseases

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How spinal cord diseases affect your life depends on the underlying cause and the part of the spinal cord involved. Below are some of the most common conditions treated here at Knight Neurology.

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Degenerative Conditions

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Degenerative spinal cord diseases develop over time due to wear and tear or age-related changes in the spine.

 

Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

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This condition occurs when age-related changes in the cervical spine compress the spinal cord, leading to balance issues, weakness, and coordination problems.

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Spinal Stenosis

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Spinal stenosis involves narrowing of the spinal canal, which can place pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

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Transverse Myelitis

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This condition involves inflammation across one segment of the spinal cord, often causing sudden weakness, sensory changes, and bladder or bowel dysfunction.

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Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries

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Traumatic injuries result from accidents such as falls, vehicle collisions, or sports injuries.

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Complete Injury ​

 

A complete injury results in total loss of sensation and motor function below the level of injury.

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Incomplete Injury

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An incomplete injury allows for some preserved function below the injury site, with varying degrees of movement or sensation.

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Infectious & Tumor-Related Conditions

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These conditions involve infections or abnormal growths affecting the spinal cord.

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Spinal Infections

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Because the spinal cord controls movement, sensation, and autonomic functions, symptoms can vary widely. Common symptoms may include:

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• Motor: Weakness, difficulty walking, or paralysis

• Sensory: Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation

• Pain: Neck, back, or radiating nerve pain

• Autonomic: Bladder or bowel dysfunction, sexual dysfunction

• Coordination: Loss of balance or fine motor control

 

Diagnosis & Treatment

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The physicians at Knight Neurology diagnose spinal cord diseases through a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging, and specialized testing.

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Diagnostic tools may include:

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• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to visualize the spinal cord and surrounding structures

• Computed Tomography (CT) scans for detailed imaging of bone structures

• Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve and muscle function

 

Our neurologists customize your treatment plan based on the specific condition, severity, and progression. Your plan may include:

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• Medications to reduce inflammation, manage pain, or control autoimmune activity

• Physical Therapy to improve strength, mobility, and function

• Surgical Intervention to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or remove tumors

• Rehabilitation Programs for long-term recovery and quality of life improvement

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For compassionate and comprehensive care for spinal cord diseases, call Knight Neurology at (321) 345-6331 now or request an appointment to learn more about how we can help.