Spinal Cord Compression
Understanding the Condition & Finding Lasting Relief
What Is Spinal Cord Compression?
Spinal cord compression occurs when pressure is placed on the spinal cord due to structural changes in the spine, such as bone spurs, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis.
This pressure can disrupt nerve function, leading to pain, numbness, weakness, or loss of coordination.
Spinal cord compression can significantly impact mobility and daily activities. If left untreated, it may lead to permanent nerve damage, affecting balance, fine motor skills, and even bladder or bowel control. Fortunately, expert care is available to relieve symptoms and improve function.
How Spinal Cord Compression Impacts Your Life
Without treatment, spinal cord compression can lead to:
Chronic pain that limits mobility and daily activities.
Weakness in the limbs, making walking or gripping objects difficult.
Difficulty performing fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or writing.
Progressive nerve damage that can lead to permanent disability.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Compression
How Mr Gordan Grahovac Can Help
As a Consultant Neurosurgeon & Complex Spinal Surgeon in London, Mr Grahovac is an expert in diagnosing and treating spinal cord compression. His tailored treatment plans focus on relieving pressure on the spinal cord using the latest non-surgical and minimally invasive techniques to improve function and quality of life.
To accurately diagnose spinal cord compression, Mr Grahovac will conduct:
Medical History & Physical Examination – Evaluating mobility, strength, and reflexes.
Advanced Imaging (MRI/CT/X-ray) – Identifying areas of spinal cord pressure.
Nerve Function Tests – Assessing nerve response and severity of compression.
His Diagnostic Process:
Treatment Options for Spinal Cord Compression
Mr Grahovac and the teams he works with take a holistic approach to your treatment, considering the severity of your symptoms, underlying condition, and overall well-being to create a personalised plan that promotes long-term relief and spinal health.
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Postural & Ergonomic Advice – Adjusting sitting, standing, and movement habits to reduce strain on the spinal cord.
Physiotherapy & Targeted Exercises – Strengthening core and spinal muscles to improve stability and maintain mobility.
Pain Management Strategies – Anti-inflammatory medications, heat therapy, and gentle movement modifications to reduce nerve irritation.
Bracing (For Certain Cases) – Some patients benefit from wearing a neck or back brace to reduce movement and stabilise the spine.
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Epidural Steroid Injections – Reducing inflammation and relieving nerve irritation in the spinal cord.
Nerve Root Blocks – Providing targeted pain relief by blocking pain signals from compressed nerve roots.
Facet Joint Injections – Treating inflammation in the small spinal joints, which may contribute to nerve compression.
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Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery (MISS) – Small incisions with a faster recovery time, used for nerve decompression and spinal stability.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery – High-precision technology for delicate spinal decompression procedures.
Decompression Surgery (Laminectomy or Foraminotomy) – Removing portions of bone, ligament, or disc material to relieve spinal cord pressure.
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Cervical Disc Replacement – Replacing a damaged cervical disc with an artificial one while preserving spinal movement.
Spinal Fusion Surgery – Stabilising the spine by permanently joining vertebrae to prevent further spinal cord irritation.
Spinal Decompression Surgery – Relieving direct pressure on the spinal cord in cases of severe compression (e.g., advanced spinal stenosis or myelopathy).
What Patients Are Saying
Frequently Asked Questions: Spinal Cord Compression
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Symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe pain, weakness, and coordination problems. Some patients experience tingling, numbness, or difficulty walking.
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Mild cases may improve with physiotherapy, posture adjustments, and pain management. However, progressive compression often requires medical intervention.
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Recovery varies depending on the treatment method. Non-surgical treatments may take weeks to months, while surgical recovery can take several months, depending on the procedure.
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Yes. Maintaining good posture, core-strengthening exercises, and ergonomic adjustments can relieve strain on the spine and improve mobility.
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Surgery may be required if:
Symptoms worsen despite conservative treatments.
Weakness, numbness, or loss of function continues to progress.
Red flag symptoms such as bowel/bladder dysfunction develop.
If you’re unsure, book a consultation with Mr. Gordan Grahovac for an expert evaluation.
Take the First Step Towards Relief
Spinal cord compression doesn’t have to control your life. Whether you need conservative treatment or advanced spinal care, Mr Gordan Grahovac is here to help.
Book a consultation today and start your journey towards lasting relief.