Symptoms of spinal cord compression can come on suddenly or develop as a result of a progressive condition. The spinal cord is an element of the central nervous system and is the primary pathway for signals from the brain to travel through the body. Spinal cord compression can be caused by pressure from bones, pus or a ruptured disc. Spinal cord compression injuries can range from mild to severe.
Pain
According to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, pain from spinal cord compression can range from mild to severe. Pain may radiate down either leg, particularly if the compression is close to the sciatic nerve. The pain may be felt all the way down to the foot. The muscles of the back may be tender and painful to touch, and pressure against the back may be especially painful. This can occur if the spinal cord compression is due to a tumor or cancerous growth.
Tingling
Another common spinal cord compression symptom is tingling down the leg to the foot. Partial nerve compression of the spinal cord can create "pins and needles" sensations in the legs and feet, or make a limb feel like it has "gone to sleep."
Erectile Dysfunction
Spinal cord compression can cause erectile dysfunction, or impotence, in men. This can be only a temporary result of a compression injury, the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library says. In cases of more severe injuries, however, the dysfunction may be permanent.
Reflex Changes
Spinal cord compression symptoms can include dramatic changes in reflexes. These include the loss of sensation of a full bladder, bowel control and muscle control. The ability to control legs and arms may also be affected by changes in reflexes. If the spinal cord injury is relatively mild and temporary, reflexes will return to normal. However, if the injury worsens, so will the symptoms.
Other Discomfort
Additional symptoms of spinal cord compression can include muscle spasms, sweating, feeling a band of discomfort at the location of the injury, and muscle weakness. Additionally, numbness can travel down the legs and to the feet, plus radiate out to arms and hands, depending on the location of the injury.
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