Common causes of spinal compression vary from slow processes to trauma. The results can vary widely, depending on how much the spinal cord or the spinal roots are involved. The symptoms can span from mild changes in sensitivity to excruciating pain or muscle paralysis. Once the cause is determined and the location and severity diagnosed with MRI, spinal compression can usually be treated with surgery.
Bony Compression
The spinal cord is encased inside the vertebrae of the spine. Occasionally, a vertebral segment may become dislocated. This misaligns the spinal cord passing through it and causes compression at the points where the spinal cord bends. Such dislocation can occur after a fall or automobile accident. Another type of bony compression occurs when a fracture of the vertebrae causes a piece of bone to protrude and then compress the spinal cord. Such fractures frequently occur after a fall, automobile accident or gunshot wound. Abnormal bone growth, or spondylosis, sometimes can be so extensive that the enlarged bone pushes onto the surface of the spinal cord, causing compression. In all of these cases, surgery is required to remove the compressing bony element, according to the Merck Manuals.
Hematoma
When blood collects and pools, a hematoma is formed. Around the spinal cord, the most common reason for hematoma formation is traumatic injury, as occurs in automobile accidents and falls. However, hematomas also can result from arteriovenous malformations, hemophilia, and use of drugs, specifically anticoagulant and thrombolytic drugs. The hematoma builds up pressure over the spinal cord, which becomes squeezed inside the bony vertebral compartment. Eventually, symptoms of spinal compression follow.
Tumor
Tumors within the spine rarely cause compression of the spinal cord. However, more commonly a cancer which has metastasized to the spine or to the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord can cause compression. The cancer can be fast or slow growing but the symptoms begin as the spinal cord eventually becomes compressed, according to the Palliative.org website.
Ruptured Disk
The intervertebral disks of the spine can rupture or herniate. This may cause them to press onto the roots of the spinal nerves adjacent to the spinal cord. Less frequently, the ruptured or herniated disk can protrude directly onto the spinal cord and produce symptoms.
Other
Following trauma to the spine, connective tissues such as ligaments may become misaligned. They can press directly onto the spinal cord or onto the roots of the spinal nerves. An abscess also can cause compression of the spinal cord. This usually is a localized involvement around the spinal cord but not usually inside it, according to the Merck Manuals.
