Spinal Cord Compression in Valencia & Encino

Spinal cord compression is a condition that can cause significant pain, mobility issues, and a decline in quality of life. At California Neurosurgical Institute, we understand the complexities of this condition and offer a range of advanced, personalized treatment options to help you regain your comfort and function.

Condition and Symptoms

Spinal cord compression occurs when something puts pressure on the spinal cord, a vital part of your nervous system that runs from your brain down through your back. Various factors, including herniated discs, spinal fractures, tumors, thickened ligaments, or bone spurs, can cause this pressure. The compression can lead to symptoms such as the following:

Persistent neck or back pain
Numbness or tingling in your arms, hands, legs, or feet
Weakness or difficulty with balance and coordination
Problems with bladder or bowel control in severe cases

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage to the spinal cord and nerves

A Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach

At California Neurosurgical Institute, our expert team uses the latest diagnostic tools to identify the cause and extent of spinal cord compression accurately. Imaging techniques like MRI, CT scans, and X-rays are used to get a detailed view of your spine and the surrounding structures. These tests allow us to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your symptoms.

Treatment Options for Spinal Cord Compression

Treatment for spinal cord compression depends on the severity of your condition and the underlying cause of the pressure on your spinal cord. At California Neurosurgical Institute, we prioritize conservative, non-surgical treatments whenever possible. We provide state-of-the-art surgical options for patients needing more extensive interventions.

Non-Surgical Options

For many patients, non-surgical treatments can effectively manage the symptoms of spinal cord compression. These treatments may include:

Physical Therapy: Customized exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine and improve your posture.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or pain relievers to reduce inflammation and manage pain.
Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce swelling and inflammation around the spinal cord, providing significant pain relief.
Activity Modification: Guidance on avoiding activities that exacerbate your symptoms while incorporating exercises that promote spinal health.

Advanced Surgical Interventions

When non-surgical treatments are not enough to relieve the symptoms of spinal cord compression, surgery may be recommended. California Neurosurgical Institute's team of highly skilled neurosurgeons specializes in several minimally invasive procedures designed to alleviate the pressure on your spinal cord and restore function.

Decompression Surgery: This procedure relieves pressure on the spinal cord or nerves by removing the source of compression, such as a herniated disc, bone spurs, or thickened ligaments.
Laminectomy: A common decompression surgery where a portion of the vertebra, known as the lamina, is removed to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves, reducing pressure and alleviating pain.
Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive procedure used to remove part of a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve. This surgery typically involves a small incision, and a microscope is used for precision, allowing quicker recovery.
Spinal Fusion: In cases where instability is a concern, spinal fusion may be performed to stabilize the affected area. This involves connecting two or more vertebrae to stop movement, which could cause nerve irritation.

Why Choose Us?

Selecting California Neurosurgical Institute for spinal cord compression care needs means choosing a team dedicated to your health and comfort. Because we care about you and consider your unique circumstances, we will take the time to discuss all the options. We ensure that non-surgical treatment methods have been exhausted before turning to surgery as a last resort. When it does come to surgery, our neurosurgeons are leaders in the field, using the latest minimally invasive methods to reduce pain, minimize scarring, and speed up recovery times. Call us to schedule a consultation today to see what we can do for you.