Understanding Spinal Tumors: Symptoms and When to See a Doctor

Back pain is common, and most of the time, it has a straightforward explanation. 

However, back pain can signal something that deserves a closer look, including spinal tumors. They're not as common as herniated discs or muscle strains, but don’t overlook them, especially if your symptoms get worse or feel different than typical back pain.

Here in Atlanta, Georgia, Max Steuer, MD, and physician assistant Carter Cooper, PA-C, want you to know that most spinal tumors, about 80%, are benign. But cancerous or not, a tumor can still cause real problems for your spine and quality of life. We can help. 

What’s a spinal tumor?

A spinal tumor forms when abnormal cells rapidly multiply in or around the cervical (upper), thoracic (middle), or lumbar (lower) spine. They can form within the spinal cord, in the surrounding tissues, or on the bones of the spinal column.

The reason they cause so many symptoms? The spine is a compact structure. When a tumor develops, it presses on nearby nerves, causing your body to send SOS signals.

Spinal tumor symptoms

When your back hurts, you may assume it’s regular back pain. But there are some telltale differences when a spinal tumor is involved.

Back pain is obviously the first symptom, but it tends to have unique qualities. One is worsening at night rather than improving with rest, as is typical with muscle soreness.

Other symptoms appear and intensify, including:

• Radiating pain down your arm or leg
• Numbness at or near the tumor site
• Muscle weakness in your feet, legs, hands, or arms
• Stiffness in your back or neck
• Balance issues

If one of your symptoms is loss of bladder or bowel control alongside back pain, seek care promptly.

When to seek care for back pain

Back pain is so common that it's easy to assume it goes away on its own; thankfully, it usually does. But some signs indicate you should make an appointment.

Call us if your back pain consistently wakes you up at night, spreads into your arms or legs, or you notice neurological changes, such as numbness, tingling, or weakness. Take seriously pain that increases rather than improves.

Not every tumor requires immediate intervention, but a skilled specialist should help you make that call. If the tumor is small and not causing any significant problems, Dr. Steuer may suggest a conservative approach, monitoring it over time with imaging such as MRI or CT scans.

What treatment looks like

For tumors that threaten your spinal health, Dr. Steuer may recommend surgery to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible.

The board-certified neurosurgeon uses advanced minimally invasive techniques, which means a small incision, less disruption to surrounding tissue, and a quicker recovery for you.

If full removal isn't possible without risking your spinal cord, additional treatment with radiation or chemotherapy may follow to eradicate the remaining abnormal cells.

Dr. Steuer customizes your treatment plan to your specific situation, taking into account the tumor type and size, and how it affects your spine and quality of life.

If something about your back pain doesn't feel right, trust that instinct. Call our office at 404-303-8280 or request an appointment online today.