Understanding Pain
Diagnosis & Understanding
4. Neck Pain
1:55
6. Painful Diabetic Neuropathy
1:46
8. Foot Pain
1:50
9. Ankle and Foot Pain
1:46
10. Cancer Pain
1:34
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
2. Bracing
1:30
3. Acupuncture
2:13
4. Physical Therapy
1:35
5. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
2:08
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments
2. Regenerative Medicine
2:06
5. Caudal Epidural
1:33
10. Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
1:39
11. Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty
2:05
12. Basivertebral Nerve Ablation
1:36
13. MILD Procedure
2:04
14. Spinal Decompression Surgeries
1:41
15. Artificial Disc Replacement
1:52
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Pain Emergencies- Go to the ER NOW!
1746875479
If you experience any of the following symptoms after a spine procedure, go to the ER immediately.
A severe headache that worsens when sitting or standing but improves when lying down may be a spinal fluid leak. This can happen after an epidural injection or spinal tap. If the headache is intense, especially with nausea, vomiting, or neck stiffness, seek emergency care.
Fever over 101 degrees, chills, or worsening back pain at the injection site could mean an infection. If you also have a severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, or light sensitivity, it may be meningitis. These require immediate treatment.
Sudden weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control may indicate nerve compression or spinal bleeding. This is especially serious if you take blood thinners. Get emergency care right away—delaying treatment could cause permanent damage.
Severe back or neck pain with shooting pain down both legs or arms may be a serious nerve issue. If you also have weakness, numbness, or difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels, go to the ER immediately.
Serious complications from spine procedures are rare, but early treatment is critical. If you’re unsure, get checked. Don’t wait—go to the ER now.
FAQs
How serious is severe back or neck pain with shooting pain in the limbs?
Severe back or neck pain combined with shooting pain down both legs or arms could indicate a serious nerve issue. If accompanied by weakness, numbness, or difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels, urgent medical evaluation is required.
What are the signs of a spinal fluid leak after a spine procedure?
A severe headache that worsens when sitting or standing but improves when lying down may signal a spinal fluid leak, which can occur after an epidural injection or spinal tap. If the headache is intense and accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or neck stiffness, it's important to seek emergency care immediately.
What does sudden weakness or numbness indicate after spinal treatment?
If you experience sudden weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control, it may indicate nerve compression or spinal bleeding. This is especially concerning if you are taking blood thinners. Immediate emergency care is crucial to prevent potential permanent damage.
What is the importance of early treatment for complications after spine procedures?
While serious complications from spine procedures are rare, timely treatment is essential to prevent permanent damage. If you experience any concerning symptoms after a spine procedure, do not hesitate—visit the ER immediately to get checked.
When should I suspect an infection after a spine procedure?
Fever exceeding 101 degrees, chills, or worsening back pain at the injection site might indicate an infection. If these symptoms are present with a severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, or light sensitivity, it could be meningitis, and you should seek immediate medical attention.