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Arachnoiditis/Arachnoid Webbing

Arachnoiditis is a debilitating spinal cord injury that can result from car accidents, falls, and other traumatic events. This injury is marked by chronic pain in the back that can progress over time. Arachnoiditis can also cause permanent disability; paralysis; dysfunction of the bladder, bowels, and gastrointestinal tract; and other severe health issues.  

What is Arachnoiditis?

Arachnoiditis is a painful injury caused by inflammation of the arachnoid membrane that surrounds and protects the spinal cord. When the membrane swells, pressure on the spinal cord, spinal nerves and major arteries can cause debilitating pain.  

diagram of a healthy spine compared to a spine with arachnoiditis

This disorder is often difficult to diagnose because it can resemble other back injuries such as radiculopathy or sciatica.  

What are the causes?

Motor vehicle accidents and other direct trauma to the spine can cause arachnoiditis. Other causes include complications from spinal surgery, infection, and irritation from certain chemicals. If you are experiencing back pain after a collision, you should consult a medical professional immediately. 

What are the symptoms?

Arachnoiditis is often a painful and lifelong condition. The symptoms vary depending on where the inflammation is on the spine. Some of the most reported symptoms include: 

  • Chronic pain, particularly in the lower back and legs 
  • Tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation 
  • Muscle cramps, spasms, or uncontrollable twitching 
  • Bladder, bowel, or sexual dysfunction 
  • Severe headaches and other neurological problems 

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosing arachnoiditis can be challenging due to its complex nature and the overlap of symptoms with other conditions. Medical professionals typically rely on a combination of patient history, physical examinations, and imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to identify the presence of inflammation and nerve damage. Unfortunately, because arachnoiditis is a rare condition and is not fully understood, many medical care providers may fail to diagnose arachnoiditis in a timely manner or fail to diagnose it at all. 

Additionally, there is some ambiguity in the medical terminology regarding the terms arachnoiditis and “arachnoid webbing”. Generally, arachnoid webbing refers to a more localized, or focal, inflammation of the arachnoid membrane. An arachnoid web can cause symptoms similar to arachnoiditis because they both involve inflammation of the arachnoid membrane.   

What is the treatment for Arachnoiditis?

There is currently no cure for arachnoiditis, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Treatment options may include:

  • Pain management through medications, physical therapy, nerve blocks, and spinal cord stimulators 
  • Surgical interventions in severe cases, although these are often considered a last resort 
  • Lifestyle modifications, including exercise and stress management techniques 
  • Support groups and counseling to help cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the condition 

Arachnoiditis Traumatic Injury Attorneys

Arachnoiditis is a complex and often misunderstood condition that requires a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. If you have been diagnosed with arachnoiditis after a traumatic spine injury, contact our personal injury lawyers in Raleigh, Charlotte, and Fayetteville. We offer free consultations and take personal injury cases on a contingency basis. That means you don’t pay unless we win. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the long-term prognosis for arachnoiditis?

There is no known cure for arachnoiditis. People living with this condition can manage the symptoms with pain management therapies. Unfortunately, this disorder can also be progressive, which means the symptoms may worsen over time.  

What is the long-term treatment for arachnoiditis?

If you are experiencing lower back pain after surgery or an accident, it’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible. Patients are generally referred to a spinal specialist to diagnose and treat this condition. 

How long does it take for arachnoiditis to develop?

This condition can develop in the weeks and even months after a traumatic event. If you are experiencing back pain after a motor vehicle accident or fall, seek immediate medical attention. 

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