Arachnoiditis Treatment Specialist in Houston and Sugar Land TX

The primary cause of arachnoiditis is inflammation of the arachnoid membrane, one of the three thin membranes encasing the spinal cord. These protective membranes, known as the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater, safeguard the nerves of the brain and spinal cord.
 
When inflammation affects the arachnoid membrane, it triggers the formation of scar tissue within the spinal canal. Arachnoiditis, a relatively rare progressive neuroinflammatory disease, is distinguished by the emergence of severe, persistent pain characterized by stinging and burning sensations, as well as accompanying neurological issues. 
 
Inflammation within the arachnoid can initiate due to various factors, including surgical procedures, spinal cord injuries, infections, or irritation resulting from the introduction of chemicals into the spinal region. This inflammation has the potential to harm spinal nerves, leading to the formation of scar tissue and their subsequent clustering.

Symptoms of arachnoiditis typically develop gradually over several weeks or months, and they may persist and progress over a span of years. Individuals affected by this condition often encounter a variety of symptoms, which can fluctuate in intensity and frequency.
 
Nevertheless, the most consistent and pronounced symptom associated with arachnoiditis is persistent pain. The specific symptoms experienced can vary depending on which nerves or regions of the spinal cord have been affected by the inflammation.
 
Pain stemming from arachnoiditis can radiate across the back and extend down the legs, often worsening with movement. As the disorder advances, these symptoms may become more severe and, in some cases, permanent. The unrelenting and unyielding nature of the pain makes arachnoiditis profoundly debilitating.
 
In addition to pain, individuals with arachnoiditis may also encounter other signs and symptoms such as muscle spasms or cramps, headaches, tingling or numbness in the affected area, muscle weakness, nausea, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and various other neurological and systemic issues.
 
These symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and require specialized medical attention for diagnosis and management.

The development of arachnoiditis can vary from person to person, but it often progresses through three primary stages. In the initial stage, individuals typically experience sporadic pain, discomfort, and tingling sensations, along with inflammation of the arachnoid membrane.
 
As the condition advances to the second stage, the formation of scar tissue intensifies, causing nerves to adhere more closely to each other and to the dura mater, one of the protective spinal membranes.
 
In the third and final stage, there is a complete constriction of the nerves, resulting in excruciating pain with every movement. Constant and heightened pain signals emanate from the nerve root ganglions, continuously transmitting pain sensations to the brain, leading to chronic pain and persistent fatigue.

Several factors are capable of aggravating arachnoiditis and its symptoms. Movements, prolonged periods of sitting, sudden or sharp motions, and various other actions can worsen the condition.
 
Arachnoiditis can originate from various triggers, such as viral or bacterial infections, which can induce inflammation and potentially harm the spinal cord. Additionally, arachnoiditis may arise from inadvertent punctures during lumbar spine surgeries or as a consequence of spinal cord injuries. Continuous compression of the spinal nerves due to underlying diseases can also intensify the condition.
 
If left untreated, arachnoiditis is likely to progress more rapidly, and the associated symptoms can become significantly more challenging to manage.
 
While arachnoiditis itself is incurable, there are medications, treatments, and therapies available that can provide relief from pain and help mitigate other side effects of the condition. These interventions can play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by arachnoiditis.
 
Arachnoiditis treatment is available at Modern Pain Management. Contact us or book an appointment online for more information. We have convenient locations to serve you in Houston TX and Sugar Land TX. We serve patients from Houston TX, Sugar Land TX, Pearland TX, Jersey Village TX, Missouri City TX, Stafford TX, and Richmond TX.