Spine Emergencies

There are certain spine conditions that require immediate attention by a spine specialist, such as the providers here at the Denver Spine and Pain Institute, or which may require evaluation in an emergency department. These include:

Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda equina syndrome occurs when the bundle of nerves coming from the lowermost spinal levels are pinched. Symptoms can include:

• Sudden loss of bowel or bladder control
• Sudden loss of sensation at the buttocks and legs
• Sudden weakness of the legs

This is a true emergency, and requires immediate notification of your spine physician and evaluation within the same day, possibly in an emergency department.

Severe Head, Neck, or Back Pain

If you have severe pain symptoms in the spine or head, immediate assessment by a spine physician, or evaluation in an emergency department is necessary. Concerning symptoms accompanying the pain include:

• Pain due to trauma
• Fever, chills, or sweats
• Neurological signs
  • Weakness or clumsiness
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control
  • Stumbling or falling
• Symptoms of brain dysfunction
  • Confusion
  • Speech problems
  • Visual disturbances

Arm or Leg Weakness

This is a sign of nerve injury and should be assessed by a spine and nerve specialist within days of onset. The team at the Denver Spine and Pain Institute have expertise in spine and nerve injury diagnosis and treatment, and will determine the cause of the problem and develop an appropriate treatment plan that matches the seriousness of the condition. Treatment may include:

• Medications
• Physical Therapy
• Spinal or other nerve injections
• Timely surgical referral

If you are experiencing neck, back, arm, or leg symptoms of pain, numbness, or tingling but do not have any of the warning signs and symptoms listed above, then you would benefit from a regularly scheduled appointment with the Denver Spine and Pain Institute.

Restoring a Pain-Free Life

Spine pain can significantly impact the quality of your life, making it hard to perform routine daily tasks and participate in your favorite activities. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with this pain any longer. At the Denver Spine and Pain Institute, we offer the most advanced treatments to alleviate your pain, helping you enjoy life again.

We’re the only sports, back and pain specialists in the country providing a Connected Care Approach™ specifically designed to get you back to enjoying life faster. This approach involves:

• A full spectrum of care, including physicians, physical therapy, massage, diet and lifestyle coaching, behavioral health, research, and cutting edge treatment options
• Developing caring and therapeutic relationships that address your unique needs
• Discussing options and providing the guidance you need from a dedicated healthcare partner
• Mobilizing an experienced team who coordinates your care program