About Arachnoiditis

What is Arachnoiditis?

Arachnoiditis is a rare, chronic, and often debilitating neurological disorder caused by inflammation of the arachnoid, one of the membranes that surround and protect the nerves of the spinal cord. Symptoms of arachnoiditis can include pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and bladder and bowel dysfunction. Treatment typically involves medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

What are the symptoms of Arachnoiditis?

The symptoms of Arachnoiditis can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:

-Chronic Pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs

-Numbness or Tingling in the legs

-Muscle Spasms and cramping

-Loss of bladder or bowel control

-Weakness in the legs

-Sensitivity to light touch

-Headaches

-Depression and anxiety

-Fatigue

What are the causes of Arachnoiditis?

The most common cause of arachnoiditis is a previous infection or inflammation of the spinal cord or nerve roots. Other causes include:

• Spinal surgery

• Spinal trauma

• Injection of certain medications into the spine
• Leaking of spinal fluid
• Radiation therapy
• Meningitis
• Tuberculosis
• Syphilis
• Lyme disease
• Parasitic infections
• Chemical irritation from certain medications or dyes used in medical imaging tests

What are the treatments for Arachnoiditis?

The treatments for arachnoiditis vary depending on the severity of the condition. Generally, treatments focus on managing the symptoms and reducing pain. These may include:

• Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and anticonvulsants

• Physical therapy and exercise

• Spinal injections of corticosteroids or anesthetics

• Surgery to remove scar tissue or to implant a spinal cord stimulator

• Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and yoga

• Psychological counseling to help manage stress and depression

What are the risk factors for Arachnoiditis?

1. Spinal surgery
2. Spinal injections
3. Trauma to the spine
4. Infection of the spine
5. Inflammatory diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
6. Radiation therapy to the spine
7. Leaking of spinal fluid
8. Chronic compression of the spinal nerves
9. Exposure to certain chemicals or toxins
10. Certain medications, such as corticosteroids

Is there a cure/medications for Arachnoiditis?

There is no cure for arachnoiditis, but medications can be used to help manage the symptoms. These include pain medications, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antidepressants. Physical therapy, nerve blocks, and spinal cord stimulation may also be used to help manage pain.