Arachnoiditis (say "uh-rak-noy-DY-tus") is inflammation of a membrane (called the arachnoid) that surrounds the spinal cord. The inflammation may be ongoing (chronic). This can cause scar tissue near the spinal cord. It can cause nerve roots to stick together and not work as they should. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, or pain in the back and legs. The condition is rare.
It can be caused by:
An MRI scan of the spine can help diagnose arachnoiditis.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
Symptoms may include:
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving your function. There is no way to reverse the scarring. Symptoms may be managed with medicine, physical therapy, and counseling. Sometimes spinal cord stimulation is used for pain. Surgery is rarely part of treatment. For some people, it may be an option.
Current as of: December 20, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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