Spinal tumours
Spinal tumours refer to abnormal growths within or around the spine. These may be benign or cancer-related and can affect the bones, nerves or spinal cord.
At Total Spine Health, suspected spinal tumours are assessed carefully to identify the cause of symptoms and guide appropriate investigation, referral and treatment planning.
AT A GLANCE
- Specialist assessment of suspected spinal tumours
- Investigation of back pain with concerning or unexplained features
- Clear guidance on scans, diagnosis and next steps
- Coordinated referral and treatment planning where required
Understanding spinal tumours
Specialist assessment for suspected spinal tumours and spinal lesions
Spinal tumours are relatively uncommon, but they are an important cause of back pain or neurological symptoms that should be identified early.
They may arise from the spine itself or spread from elsewhere in the body. Some are benign and slow growing, while others require urgent investigation and treatment.
A specialist spinal assessment helps determine whether symptoms are likely to be related to a tumour and ensures that appropriate imaging and referral pathways are arranged without delay where needed.
What are spinal tumours?
Understanding tumours affecting the spine
Spinal tumours are abnormal growths that can develop in the vertebrae, spinal cord or surrounding tissues. They may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancer-related).
Some tumours originate within the spine, while others represent spread from cancers elsewhere in the body. Their impact depends on their size, location and whether they affect nearby nerves or the spinal cord.
Symptoms may develop gradually or progress more quickly, particularly if there is pressure on neural structures.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
Symptoms that may be linked to spinal tumours
Symptoms can vary depending on the location and nature of the tumour. In many cases, symptoms are non-specific at first, which is why careful assessment is important.
- persistent or unexplained back pain
- pain that does not improve with rest
- night pain or pain that wakes you from sleep
- pain spreading into the arms or legs
- numbness or tingling
- weakness in the arms or legs
- changes in walking or balance
- unexplained weight loss or fatigue
COMMON CAUSES
Conditions we assess and treat
Spinal tumours may arise in different ways and require careful investigation to determine the underlying cause.
WHEN TO SEEK HELP
When specialist spinal advice may be helpful
Most back pain is not caused by serious conditions. However, certain symptoms should be assessed more urgently to rule out more significant causes.
- persistent pain that is not improving
- pain that is worse at night or at rest
- unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness
- changes in walking, balance or coordination
- a history of cancer
- symptoms that are worsening over time
Important note
Urgent medical assessment is important if there is severe or progressive weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or significant difficulty walking or coordinating movements.
DIAGNOSIS AND ASSESSMENT
How spinal tumours are assessed
Assessment begins with a detailed discussion of your symptoms, medical history and any relevant risk factors, followed by a focused clinical examination.
Where there are features that raise concern, further investigation is arranged promptly to clarify the diagnosis.
- where the pain is felt and how it behaves
- how long symptoms have been present
- whether symptoms are worsening or changing
- presence of neurological symptoms
- any history of cancer or systemic illness
Examination may include assessment of movement, strength, reflexes, sensation and signs of nerve or spinal cord involvement.
Where appropriate, further investigation may include:
- MRI scan (most important test)
- CT scan
- X-rays in selected cases
- referral for specialist imaging or biopsy where needed
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment for spinal tumours
Treatment depends on the type of tumour, its location and whether it is affecting surrounding structures. Management is usually coordinated with specialist teams.
Some lesions require imaging, monitoring or further specialist assessment before treatment decisions are made.
Patients may be referred to spinal tumour or oncology teams for further evaluation and multidisciplinary management.
Where appropriate, treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy or other specialist therapies, depending on the diagnosis and individual case.
Self-care and support
Practical steps while awaiting assessment
While investigations are being arranged, it is important to monitor symptoms and seek further advice if there are any changes.
- avoid activities that significantly worsen pain
- remain gently mobile where possible
- keep track of symptom changes
- attend all scheduled investigations promptly
- seek urgent review if symptoms worsen
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about spinal tumours
Is back pain usually caused by a tumour?
No. Most back pain is not caused by a tumour. However, certain symptoms may require further investigation to rule out more serious causes.
Do I need a scan?
A scan is usually recommended if there are concerning features such as persistent pain, neurological symptoms or other warning signs.
Are spinal tumours always cancer?
No. Some spinal tumours are benign. However, all suspected tumours require proper assessment to determine the cause.
What happens if a tumour is found?
You will be referred to the appropriate specialist team for further investigation and treatment planning.
RELATED CONDITIONS
Conditions linked with sacroiliac joint pain
RELATED TREATMENTS
Treatment pathways that may be relevant
- Spinal assessment and diagnostic review
- MRI and imaging-led evaluation
- Spinal surgery
- Oncology referral pathways
- Multidisciplinary care
