Spinal cord compression is a true emergency and may be the first sign of cancer. It occurs when the cancer has spread to vertebrae of the spine and tailbone region. The weakened vertebrae can collapse on the spinal cord, causing symptoms and problems with function.
Symptoms depend on the level at which the spine is compressed. Typical symptoms that might signal acute spinal cord compression include:
These symptoms are often preceded by pain in the hip (usually one sided) or back lasting a few days or weeks. Such symptoms require immediate evaluation in the nearest hospital emergency department. Failure to be treated immediately can result in permanent spinal cord damage.
- Weakness in the legs and difficulty walking
- Increased difficulty urinating or moving your bowels
- Difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels
- Decreased sensation, numbness, or tingling in the groin or legs.