What is osteomyelitis?
Vertebral osteomyelitis is a type of bone infection caused by bacteria. It is most commonly found in the vertebrae of the spine, but it can spread into the epidural and intervertebral disc spaces as well.
Osteomyelitis can affect any part of the spinal column, including the cervical (neck), thoracic (middle back), lumbar (low back), and sacral regions (sacrum).
Depending on the severity of the damage to the spine, pain may spread to other parts of the body.
Complications caused due to vertebral osteomyelitis if left untreated:
- Neurological deficits that are permanent.
- Infection recurrence.
- Paralysis.
- Chronic discomfort.
- Fracture.
- Disability.
What are the signs and symptoms of thoracic osteomyelitis?
Back pain that is severe, persistent, worse at night, and exacerbated by movement is one of the symptoms of vertebral osteomyelitis.
Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations may be caused by nerve or spinal cord compression. Difficulty in walking, loss of manual dexterity, tremendous weakness, paralysis, or bladder or bowel problems are examples of severe nerve-related dysfunction requiring immediate medical attention.
Swelling, fever, sweating, weight loss, vomiting, weakness, and malaise are all possible common physical symptoms.
Get in touch with Dr. Nitin Jagdhane in Mumbai, who is a well-known brain and spine specialist, to get the best treatment for thoracic osteomyelitis.