Cysts on the spine are synovial cysts, which are a rare cause of back pain. Forming on the joints or tendons in the spine, they develop as a result of natural degeneration. In general, spinal cysts are fluid-filled sacs of various sizes which tend to be benign, meaning that they are not harmful or malignant. Often, there are no signs of discomfort or pain and they go undetected for years. It is possible that they grow larger in size and can then show symptoms which are similar to spinal stenosis, placing pressure on the sensitive nerve roots on the spine.
Causes Of Spinal Cysts
The facet joint in the spine breaks down and will produce more fluid than a healthy joint. This fluid helps the damaged joint as it provides extra lubrication and helps in easing the joint’s movement. In response to the extra fluid, a cyst may develop as the fluid builds up and gets caught in the synovial lining of the joint. This is more commonly found in older adults 50+ years as they are as a result of deterioration of the spine. The fluid in the cyst is not in and of itself harmful as it is not under pressure. It poses no threats and causes no problems unless it begins pushing on the spine.
Symptoms Of Spinal Cysts
Spinal cysts that cause back pain manifest similarly to spinal stenosis. Depending on severity, symptoms range from backache to tingling and numbness, weakness or pain in the limbs, radiating pain from a pinched nerve on one side of the body, pain that worsens moving in a particular direction, etc.
Diagnosis Of Spinal Cysts
At Bonex Klinik, a spine specialist will assess the medical history of the patient, then move to imaging tests such as an x-ray, MRI, CT scan and/or electroneuromyography (ENMG) for the accurate diagnosis. When a spinal cyst is found by the doctor, they may conduct more scans to check for spinal damage before starting treatment.
Treatment Of Spinal Cysts
There are a variety of ways to address the treatment of spinal cysts. Everything from pain medication to minimize pain, to injections to drain cysts that are larger in size may be an option. Mild over-the-counter pain medication can be used to minimize the pain caused by a cyst.
If the patient does not have relief from any of the non-invasive treatment options, the specialist doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cyst.
Why Bonex Klinik
At Bonex Klinik, innovative treatment plans are designed specific to cervical spine and neck treatment that addresses the source of pain. Our expert team of clinic staff is able to successfully explore which options of treatment are best for you after a thorough assessment. Using top-tier technology, Bonex Klinik doctors are able to address the source of pain and create a simple to understand patient care plan getting you back to life as soon as possible. We recognize that in seeking treatment you have many options. You will find an excellent team of healthcare professionals at Bonex Klinik with a specific collaborative planning team that will help you achieve the pain free outcomes you desire.
From diagnosis to discharge, cervical spine treatment is developed by your highly trained team of specialists specific to what you require.
