Symptoms that need urgent review
New or rapidly progressive leg weakness, a band-like sensation around the trunk, numbness with a clear level, difficulty passing urine, constipation or incontinence, and unsteadiness should be assessed urgently. These can indicate spinal cord compression or inflammation.
Severe back pain with fever, cancer history, trauma or progressive neurological deficit is also a red flag. Emergency imaging is needed when cord compression is suspected.
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Causes a neurologist assesses
Causes include degenerative compression, transverse myelitis, multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, vascular problems, vitamin B12 deficiency, infection, radiation injury and tumours. The pattern of symptoms and the MRI findings usually narrow the list.
The assessment reviews onset, progression, pain, bladder and bowel function, sensory level, reflexes, gait and prior imaging. Blood tests and lumbar puncture may be needed for inflammatory or infectious causes.
- Define the level and pattern of cord involvement
- Distinguish compression from inflammation or vascular causes
- Review MRI and prior imaging
- Coordinate neurosurgery, oncology or rehabilitation when needed
Treatment and rehabilitation
Treatment depends on the cause: surgical decompression for compression, steroids or immune treatment for inflammatory myelitis, antibiotics for infection, or vitamin replacement for deficiency. Rehabilitation runs alongside medical treatment.
Recovery varies. Bladder care, spasticity, pain, mobility and falls prevention are reviewed over time. Dr. Yadav coordinates with physiotherapy, urology and other specialists rather than treating the cord disorder in isolation.
Access and booking
Appointments are at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, 117 Lal Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, opposite Yak & Yeti Hotel. Call +977-9747736624 or use /book-appointment. Bring prior reports, imaging and a medication list.