Overview:
- Metastatic cancer of the spine refers to the spread of cancerous cells in the spine from other areas of the body.
- These cancerous cells may spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to eventually grow in openings within the spine.
- The pain management specialists at Tulsa Pain Consultants discuss possible pain management options for individuals affected by metastatic cancer of the spine.
Although this type of cancer usually develops within the spinal cord, it can spread to different areas of the spine overtime. Unfortunately, there’s no telling how fast this process occurs because every case of metastatic cancer is different. Nevertheless, your oncologist should monitor the tumor’s progression through various tests and diagnostic imaging.
Cancerous cells that reach the spine may cause significant damage from invading healthy soft tissue and bone. If this occurs, there is a chance more tumors will grow and thrive in the spine. As tumors grow, they may compress the spinal cord and nerve roots, causing immense pain and other complications. Moreover, the vertebrae in the spine may become weak under the pressure and collapse.
If left untreated, the tumor could compress essential nerve roots leading to the loss of nerve function, ability to feel sensation and bladder or bowel control. Despite some of the complications, there are treatment options available to mitigate pain caused by metastatic cancer of the spine. You’re oncologist will need to coordinate treatment with the pain management specialists at Tulsa Pain Consultants to ensure you’re receiving the highest standard of care.
The first step for treatment may include a minimally invasive spine surgery to remove the tumor. As soon as most, or all, of the tumor has been removed, radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery or chemotherapy may be recommended. Through the process, your oncologist and Tulsa Pain Consultants physician may coordinate prescribing you a pain medication to minimize discomfort.
Corticosteroid injections may be the best line of defensive, depending on the patient’s symptoms and current cancer treatment regimen, to limiting pain in the spine from metastatic cancer. Talk to your Tulsa Pain Consultants physician about receiving a steroid injection, nerve block or other interventional pain management option.
Tulsa Pain Consultants is a multi-location pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 855-918-PAIN or click on our “Request An Appointment” tab to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.