Arachnoiditis: Definition

What is Arachnoiditis?

Arachnoiditis is a neurological condition that causes pain in the lower back and legs, numbness, and tingling sensations. It is caused by inflammation of the arachnoid, one of the membranes that surround and protect the nerves of the spinal cord. The inflammation can lead to the formation of scar tissue and adhesions, which cause the spinal nerves to stick together.

Arachnoiditis can be caused by various factors such as spinal surgery, infection, direct injury to the spine, chronic compression of spinal nerves, or complications from spinal medical procedures. In some cases, it may be caused by the injection of certain dye used in myelograms, a type of diagnostic test. It’s a chronic, painful condition, often resistant to treatment. Pain management strategies, physiotherapy, and psychological support are usually recommended.