Spinal Tumors
What is a Spinal Tumor?
A spinal tumor is an abnormal growth inside or near your spinal cord or the bones surrounding it. These tumors can develop within the spinal cord’s protective layers (intradural) or outside them (extradural).
No matter where they begin, spinal tumors can press on nerves, disrupt movement, and cause pain.
Symptoms
Spinal tumor symptoms can appear slowly or suddenly, depending on how fast the tumor grows. Common signs include:
- Back pain that doesn’t improve with rest
- Pain that spreads to arms or legs
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in limbs
- Loss of coordination or balance
- Changes in bladder or bowel control
Causes
The cause of most spinal tumors isn’t known.
Some develop when cancer from another part of the body spreads to the spine. Others start in the spine itself due to changes in cells.
Risk Factors
You may have a higher chance of developing a spinal tumor if you have:
- A personal or family history of certain genetic conditions
- Cancer in another part of the body
- Long-term exposure to radiation
Treatments
Treatment depends on the type and location of the tumor, as well as your overall health. Options may include:
- Surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible
- Radiation therapy to target remaining tumor cells
- Medications to reduce swelling and protect nerve function
- Physical therapy to restore strength and movement
You’re never facing these choices alone — your team will explain each step and guide you through it.
Outlook
Many people recover well after treatment, especially when a tumor is found early.
Ongoing care, including follow-up scans, ensures your spine and nervous system remain healthy over time.
Prevention
While you can’t always prevent spinal tumors, you can lower your risk by:
- Managing chronic health conditions
- Avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure
- Talking to your doctor if you have a family history of genetic disorders
Why Early Care Matters
Spinal tumors can cause lasting nerve damage if left untreated. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking care right away can protect your movement, independence, and quality of life.
Why Choose CHRISTUS Health?
You deserve care that sees you as more than your symptoms. At CHRISTUS Health, your story matters — every worry, every hope, every step forward.
Here, caregivers take the time to listen before they act, to hold your hand before a procedure, and to celebrate each small milestone with you. Care is close to home, shaped around your needs, and ready when you are.
From your first visit to your last follow-up, you’ll have a team that treats you like family — walking with you through the hard days and cheering you on through the better ones.
Because your health journey isn’t just about getting better. It’s about feeling understood, supported, and never alone.