The spine or backbone is a long bony structure that provides support to the body and allows various movements. Having a healthy spine can help you perform normal body functions. On the other hand, incase of an injury, inflammation, or degenerative changes can affect your spine and restrict its functions.
In this article, we will shed light on various medical conditions that indicate you need to see a spine specialist and take your health seriously.
1. Persistent Numbness In Hands and Feet
Getting numbness in hands and feet when keeping them in one place for long can cause temporary numbness. It’s not something you should be worried about. It’s usually because of nerve compression or lack of blood flow.
However, if you feel persistent numbness in hands and feet or for longer periods, then you need to consult a spine surgeon to know the root cause and start the treatment accordingly.
2. You’ve encountered an Accident or a slip and fall Injury
If you’ve been injured in an accident or have gone through a slip and fall injury, you should see a spine specialist to check for possible fractures and injuries. The back pain, neck pain, and less spine mobility are all indicators of a minor to major injury.
Your spine surgeon will not only help you diagnose the root cause of your pain but also suggest suitable treatment that will help you carry routine tasks easily.
3. Having Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a medical condition in which there is a hunch in the spine. The abnormal curve in the spine can be due to degenerative changes, neuromuscular disorder, or congenital conditions. Irrespective of the cause, the common symptoms are back pain, leg pain, difficulty in breathing, etc.
It’s important to consult a spine surgeon if you have scoliosis. Your surgeon will help you get the right treatment for better recovery.
4. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control
One of the serious signs that indicate you need to see a spine surgeon right away is when you lose control of bladder or bowel. It shows there’s an underlying nerve compression or nerve damage. In such a case, you need to see a spine specialist without any delay as further delay can lead to permanent damage.
Your surgeon will detect the cause of nerve compression or damage and plan a suitable treatment for speedy recovery.
5. Radiating pain in Limbs
Radiating pain in limbs can be due to a number of reasons such as sciatica, spinal stenosis, herniated disc, bone spurs, etc. In all of the cases, you have radiating pain in limbs and severe in some cases. It’s important to consult a spine specialist to check the root cause and start your treatment accordingly.
Timely treatment can not only reduce your pain but also increases the chance of your recovery.
The Bottom line
If you’re facing any of the above-mentioned conditions, it’s time to consult your spine surgeon and get the treatment started. Further delay can only worsen the condition and lead to irreversible damage.
