RED FLAG SIGNS IN SPINE HEALTH

#spinalwellness

RED FLAG means a potential threat and warning; Such use of nomenclature in Spinal Health refers to underlying serious pathological conditions which should be evaluated and worked upon.

The earlier such conditions are diagnosed, the better it is for future management and prevention.

These Red flag signs are:

-Extremes of age < 20yrs or > 50 yrs.

-Night pain or Rest pain.

-Recent insidious weight loss.

-History of Cancer.

-Major spine trauma or injury.

-Osteoporosis and osteoporosis fractures.

-Urine retention or bowel bladder dysfunction or saddle anesthesia (peri-anal anesthesia/ tingling).

-Motor and/Or sensory deficits.

Apart from above, other factors include

• Chronic steroid usage
• Immunosuppressant conditions like past history of cancer or HIV/ Hepatitis/Diabetes/ Thyroid disorders/ cardiopulmonary diseases.
• Chronic tobacco or alcohol abuse

These factors are a clue and not “the only entity “ to depend upon for diagnosis of fatal spinal health problems.

Also to note that, not every individual with underlying serious issue will have a RED FLAG and hence shouldn’t be relied upon entirely for evaluation.

Make sure you see your spine surgeon at the earliest opportunity to avoid long term problems.

#Wecareyourspine