Syringomyelia

Syringomyelia

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Syringomyelia: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Syringomyelia is a rare but severe condition that affects the spinal cord. It is characterised by forming a fluid-filled cyst, called a syrinx, within the spinal cord. This cyst can expand over time, causing damage to the spinal cord and leading to various symptoms. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for syringomyelia.

 

Causes

A blockage usually causes syringomyelia in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow around the spinal cord. CSF is a clear fluid surrounding and cushioning the brain and spinal cord. When the flow of CSF is obstructed, it can accumulate in the spinal cord, forming a syrinx.

The most common cause of syringomyelia is Chiari malformation. This congenital disorder causes the cerebellum (the part of the brain that controls movement and balance) to push down into the spinal canal. This can disrupt the CSF flow and lead to a syrinx formation.

Other causes of syringomyelia include spinal cord injuries, spinal tumors, and spinal arachnoiditis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the spinal cord).

 

Symptoms

The symptoms of syringomyelia can vary widely depending on the location and size of the syrinx and the underlying cause of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Pain or stiffness in the neck, shoulders, arms, or back
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
  • Weakness or muscle wasting in the arms or legs
  • Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

In some cases, syringomyelia can also cause scoliosis (curvature of the spine) or a loss of sensation or reflexes in the affected areas.

 

Diagnosis

Diagnosing syringomyelia typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and neurological assessments. Your doctor may conduct a thorough physical exam to check for signs of weakness, numbness, or other neurological symptoms.

They may also order an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of the spine to look for the presence of a syrinx. Sometimes, your doctor may also perform a spinal tap (a lumbar puncture) to test the CSF for abnormalities.

 

Treatment

The treatment options for syringomyelia depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In mild cases, treatment may involve regular monitoring to track the size of the syrinx and any changes in symptoms.

In more severe cases, treatment may involve surgery to remove the obstruction and drain the syrinx. This can help to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and prevent further damage.

In some cases, medications such as pain relievers or muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms.

Syringomyelia is a severe condition that can cause various symptoms and complications. If you are experiencing any symptoms of syringomyelia, you must see your doctor immediately for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

While there is no cure for syringomyelia, several treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and prevent further damage to the spinal cord. With proper care and management, many people with syringomyelia can lead entire and active lives.

We Are Spine is a specialized clinic that provides treatment for various types of spine diseases, whether acute or chronic.Our team of well-known Spine Specialists in Mumbai with years of expertise in clinical practice has helped over 60000 patients overcome back pain. The clinic boasts of a highly experienced team of spine specialists and Best Spine Surgeon Mumbai who are supervised by Dr. Shekhar Bhojraj, one of the top spine surgeons in Mumbai.

Introducing the team of our spine surgeons – Dr. Abhay Nene, Dr. Shital Mohite, Dr. Priyank Patel, Dr. Premik Nagad , Dr. Aaditya D. Kashikar and Dr. Harshal Babulal Bamb !

We Are Spine utilizes the latest technologies and equipment to minimize spine surgery and achieve better results. With their expertise and dedication, the clinic is committed to providing the best possible care for patients suffering from spine-related ailments.

WEARESPINE is an advanced and dedicated spine clinic in Mumbai  for patients with spine issues in Mumbai, India. The spine is a crucial part of the body, supporting the head and upper body weight, protecting the spinal cord, and allowing movement. Spinal problems can lead to pain, discomfort, and disability. Choosing the best spine surgeon in Mumbai is essential for effective spine care and treatment. We Are Spine boasts a team of top spine surgeons in mumbai, including experts like Dr. Shekhar Bhojraj, Dr. Abhay Nene, Dr. Priyank Patel, Dr. Sheetal Mohite, Dr. Premik Nagad, and Dr. Raghuprasad Varma, specializing in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted spine surgery in Mumbai . With over 60,000 patients treated, we offer offer comprehensive care, advanced technology, and affordability. Services include minimally invasive spine surgery, complex spine surgery, spinal fusion, and artificial disc replacement. Common conditions treated include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, and spinal fractures. Choose We Are Spine for expert, patient-centered care in Mumbai.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about syringomyelia

Syringomyelia is a condition in which a fluid-filled cyst, called a syrinx, forms within the spinal cord. This can damage the spinal cord and cause a range of symptoms.

The symptoms of syringomyelia can vary widely depending on the location and size of the syrinx and the underlying cause of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include pain or stiffness in the neck, shoulders, arms, or back, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, weakness or muscle wasting in the arms or legs, difficulty walking or maintaining balance, and loss of bladder or bowel control.

A blockage usually causes syringomyelia in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow around the spinal cord. The most common cause of syringomyelia is Chiari malformation, a congenital disorder that causes the cerebellum to push down into the spinal canal. Other causes include spinal cord injuries, spinal tumors, and spinal arachnoiditis.

Diagnosing syringomyelia typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and neurological assessments. Your doctor may conduct a thorough physical exam to check for signs of weakness, numbness, or other neurological symptoms. They may also order an MRI scan of the spine to look for the presence of a syrinx.

There is no cure for syringomyelia, but several treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and prevent further damage to the spinal cord. In mild cases, treatment may involve regular monitoring to track the size of the syrinx and any changes in symptoms. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the obstruction and drain the syrinx.

Syringomyelia is usually caused by underlying conditions such as Chiari malformation or spinal cord injuries that cannot be prevented. However, seeking prompt medical attention for any syringomyelia symptoms can help prevent further damage and improve outcomes.

The impact of syringomyelia on daily life can vary widely depending on the severity and location of the syrinx, as well as the individual’s overall health and ability to manage symptoms. Some people with syringomyelia can lead entire and active lives with proper care and management, while others may experience more severe limitations or complications.

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Patients’ Testimonials

Satyam Bairoliya
Satyam Bairoliya
2023-07-17
On behalf of my grandfather- I met up with Dr Abhay due to a disk prolapse (Slip Disk). Dr abhay started off by giving me a comfortable space to share my problems especially given the fact that hailing from a small town it was not everyday that a doctor asked a lot of relevant questions ensure the best remedy. Dr abhay suggested me to undergo a regular physiotherapist sessions, that’s when I was introduced to Dr.Shikha. Her sessions were extremely simple to understand. Given the fact that it was done over video it was all the more impressive. I have been gradually recovering my strength and Dr.Abhay’s regular followups ensured the correct steps are being followed throughout the journey to ensure that i avoid surgery. Truly in line with the catchphrase “we are spine” Thanks for everything 😄
Geeta Jaisinghani
Geeta Jaisinghani
2023-07-16
hi I am geeta Jaisinghani, senior citizen, from mumbai. I was going thru severe back n neck pain. No doctors n physios really cud help me. Finally my son contacted Dr Abhay Nene ( whom we know sync several years )on video calling n he saw my reports n said only physio wil give complete relief n no need for any surgery. He advised some walking posture n told me to contact Dr. Shikha Jain. Dr Nene said she wil give best help to me n truly I cud not believe in just the first few sessions itself I got soo much relief. she was very confident n had patience in training me thru zoom meeting. I thank God for Dr. Nene and Dr. Shikha Jain. They r the bestest I hav known n cud refer to anyone. God bless them both as they r truly dedicated to their work and caring.
Saju Thomas
Saju Thomas
2023-07-16
I am from Kerala. I suffered a lot because of my chronic backache. The pain radiated to my arms as well as the legs , and caused numbness and weakness. I was in a situation where I can't do my everyday routine.Other doctors suggested me for surgery or else there will be a condition to sit on a wheelchair. At this point one of my friend Rohit Gokhle suggested about we are spine team, and decided to give it a try. Now I think this was the best decision I ever made. The team of we are spine helped me for a fast recovery. Especially Dr. Shika Jain. Dr. did a great job with my first ever health exam. She explained everything to me in a very clear manner. Not only has she taken great care of my health, but also she is lovely to speak with at every appointment. It's rare to find a doctor that combines such personal touches and care for a patient as a person with outstanding quality of medical care. I am so glad I chose we are spine team and would highly recommend to anyone.
urvi ghatalia
urvi ghatalia
2023-07-16
A Life-changing Journey with WeAreSpine I had been struggling with excruciating spasms in my legs and lower abdomen and the pain was making it difficult to carry out my daily activities. I consulted my doctor Dr Abhay Nene of WeAreSpine who asked me to see Dr Priyank Patel, as he was travelling. And, it turned out to be a life-changing experience. Upon consulting Dr. PRIYANK Patel, I was advised to try physiotherapy as a solution to my problem. This led me to the capable hands of Dr. Shikha, who guided me through a series of specific exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles supporting my lower back. The results were astounding. Within just a month of consistent effort and dedication, I noticed a remarkable 90% improvement in my condition. The excruciating pain and spasms that once plagued my daily life were now significantly reduced, allowing me to regain my mobility and enjoy life to the fullest. I cannot emphasize enough how grateful I am to the team at WeAreSpine for their expertise and exceptional care. Dr. Abhay Nene’s diagnosis and Dr. Shikha's tailored physiotherapy exercises were the key to my recovery. If you are facing any spine-related issues or pain, I wholeheartedly recommend WeAreSpine. Their compassionate and skilled approach to spinal health is unmatched. My journey with them has been nothing short of incredible, and I now feel equipped to face life with renewed vigor and a pain-free existence. Thank you, WeAreSpine!
Devendra Parulekar
Devendra Parulekar
2023-07-16
A freak incident caused a pinched nerve that sent radiating pain down my arm, with reduced power caused by a possible damage to the nerve. Being Founder of a Travel & Hospitality startup (SaffronStays), this meant a break from active work and travel, as this needed bed rest for a many weeks on end. What was troubling was that I had a long overdue family trip to France and Italy, in under 2 weeks! What complicated things was the emergency root canal that suddenly emerge exactly 2 days after the freak pinched nerve incident. In all this, renowned and celebrated Dr Abhay Nene and his trusted Physiotherapist Dr Shikha Jain, took over the challenge of putting me on that plane to Paris, without any surgery or steroid epidurals, with minimal pain! We actively and slowly increased the intensity of our neck and trapezius muscle exercises. Dr Shikha understood the root cause - a poor posture, caused excessive laptop/ mobile use - diagnosed as Forward Head Posture (also called Google neck) and literally forced me to first solve this by undertaking active posture correction exercises, including the famous McKenzie method or chin tucks and thoracic extensions. I recall her saying “Mr Deven, if you don’t do this exercise every day, you will have permanent nerve damage”. That shook me out of my inertia! Slowly and steadily, under Dr Abhay’s watchful eye, Dr Shikha increased the intensity of our exercise, by adding weights; to strengthen shoulder, back, neck and spine (also core) and now the affected triceps and biceps muscles, to get me back on the tennis court that I cannot live without. Am still a month or two away from my favourite sport, and eagerly waiting for the process of pain management, to pain Centralization, to paid reduction, muscle strengthening… much beyond the posture correction. What a brilliant journey, that straddled corrective to preventive methods. Kudos to this brilliant team of spine specialists!
Karan Bhatt
Karan Bhatt
2023-07-15
Hi , myself Dr karan was suffering from cervical cord compression at C5-C6 level for which I consulted Dr.ABHAY NENE sir who examined me and reassured me that it can be managed conservatively for which he suggested me to have a consult with Dr. Shikha jain . I would admit without a doubt that Dr.ABHAY sir’s guidance and physiotherapy by Dr. Shikha helped me regain my confidence and have been asymptomatic bcoz of the physiotherapy .Dr. Shikha has been upto the point ,very concerned and supportive throughout the treatment. I would highly recommend WE ARE SPINE for anyone suffering from spine ailments .
Jayshree Bhanushali
Jayshree Bhanushali
2023-07-15
Basically I am from Andhra pradesh and i have a spine issue for over the years. Just to consult Dr. Priyank ,i visited his clinic and really he is a great doctor. He is very understanding & listen to our concerns. He takes time with the patient to help them with their health issues.when you have an appointment, Dr. priyank will spend the whole scheduled period with the patient if need be. I am still addressing Dr. priyank but he had made me feel that i am in good hands.Really effecinet, on point, respectful and his staff is great. And Dr. keshav is also an awesome doctor. He suggested me to go for physiotherapy and i must say that Dr. shikha Jain is one of the best physiotherapist I have ever seen in my life.She is so sweet and for me she is like my daughter. She is very thoroughlthorough & caring. If you need a great doctor to help you with your health and wellness do yourself a favor and meet this adorable doctor Shikha. I can't imagine going anyone else now.
Gaurav Antapurkar
Gaurav Antapurkar
2023-07-14
I’ve been suffering with lower back pain(bulging disk and sciatica) from past 4 years. Till date I’ve consulted around 10 specialists with little to no relief. But ever since I am under the supervision of We are Spine I can say I feel a whole lot better than I was before. The pain is none to minimal. The treatment is completely medicine-free and addresses the root cause. I will highly recommend this to anyone with any kind of pain. Thank you We are Spine!
Gauraw Mishra
Gauraw Mishra
2023-03-21
I had a severe case of coccydynia, which was affecting my daily life. Dr. Shekhar Bhojraj provided me with an effective treatment plan, which included a combination of physical therapy and medication. The staff at We Are Spine Clinic was also very helpful, and I am now feeling much better.

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