Arachnoiditis: Cause of Nerve and Back Pain

Arachnoiditis is a condition caused by the inflammation of the arachnoid mater, one of the three membranes that protects the brain and spinal cord. Prolonged inflammation of this membrane leads to the formation of scar tissue, which can bind spinal nerves together.

The symptoms of arachnoiditis range from the typical symptoms of nerve interference such as sharp pain, tingling and numbness along the nerve pathway to more unique symptoms like the sensation of bugs crawling on the skin or water dripping down the leg. As with other instances of nerve interference in the lower back, arachnoiditis can cause muscle spasms, bladder or bowel incontinence and sexual dysfunction as well.

Arachnoiditis is a concerning condition for a number of reasons. First, it can be caused by a number of procedures commonly performed. These include spinal surgeries and spinal injections, such as epidurals. The condition can also be caused by infections like meningitis or tuberculosis. The contrast dye used in myelogram tests has been linked to arachnoiditis. Other conditions that cause spinal nerve compression, such as degenerative disc disease, can also lead to the inflammation of the arachnoid. The second alarming fact about this condition is that there is no data available on its prevalence. Anecdotal evidence from internet forums suggests that many doctors and specialists aren't aware of the condition and that it is often misdiagnosed as something else, like failed back surgery syndrome. The third concern associated with the condition is that there is no known cure for it.

It is important to recognize this condition as a risk of back surgeries and spinal injections, especially if you have a compromised immune system. An abnormally-functioning immune system is more likely to spur inflammation in the arachnoid mater.

If you find a health professional who is willing to work with you to manage the pain of arachnoiditis, you'll likely be given pain medications and physical therapy. You may also be prescribed psychotherapy to help mentally cope with pain. Surgery is not recognized as a reliable treatment for this condition.

Since inflammation is the underlying cause, it is possible that natural anti-inflammatory foods and herbs may help relieve pain. Ginger is one of the most effective natural anti-inflammatory foods and can be eaten from the root or taken in capsules. St. John's Wort is a popular herb that is used to treat nerve pain and inflammation along with depression. This herb should not be used in combination with anti-depressants or sedatives. Vervain is an herb that is believed to have analgesic effects and the capacity to reduce muscle spasms. Studies on herbal remedies are lacking, but the low cost and risk associated with this form of pain management makes it worth a try for people with conditions like arachnoiditis that have poor treatment records with conventional medicine.

If you've had an invasive spinal procedure or an infection and are experiencing symptoms of arachnoiditis, an MRI can confirm the diagnosis. Learning the cause of your pain will help you avoid unnecessary treatments and allow you to focus on the real problem.