Arachnoiditis

Overview

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:

• Trauma. This includes spinal surgery and injections into the spinal cord. These may include spinal or epidural injections.
• Chemicals. Examples are chemotherapy and contrast material.
• Infections.

An MRI scan of the spine can help diagnose arachnoiditis.

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Low back numbness, tingling, burning, or pain.
• Headaches.
• Muscle spasms and cramps in the back and legs.
• Constipation.
• Problems urinating.
• Problems with sex.
• In severe cases, muscle weakness or paralysis.

Treatment

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.