Dr. Ratish Kumar Mishra is a highly skilled and dedicated Consultant Orthopaedic and Spine surgeon currently associated with Sanjivini Hospital in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. His areas of expertise include Neck Pain, Back Pain, Sciatica Pain, Slipped Disc, Lumbar Canal Stenosis, Spondylolisthesis, Fractures in the Spine, Spinal Cord Injury, Spine Tumors, and infections in the spine. He is also skilled in Scoliotic spine surgery and Deformity correction surgeries. He is well-versed in open, Minimally Invasive, and Endoscopic spine surgeries. He can perform anterior and posterior Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar spine surgery.”

 

Spinal Infections

Spinal Infections

Spinal infections, while relatively uncommon, can have serious consequences on spinal health and overall well-being. It is essential for the public to be aware of the symptoms, causes, preventive measures, and available treatments related to spinal infections.

Symptoms:

  1. Back Pain:
    • Persistent and intense back pain is a common symptom of spinal infections, often localized to the infected area.
  2. Fever and Chills:
    • Systemic symptoms such as fever and chills may indicate the presence of an infection affecting the spine.
  3. Neurological Symptoms:
    • In advanced cases, spinal infections may cause neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or changes in bowel or bladder function.
  4. Limited Range of Motion:
    • Pain and stiffness in the spine may lead to a limited range of motion, affecting daily activities.
  5. Localized Swelling:
    • Swelling or tenderness at the site of infection may be present, especially if the infection involves the soft tissues surrounding the spine.

Causes:

  1. Bacterial or Fungal Infections:
    • Spinal infections can result from bacteria or fungi entering the spine through various means, such as surgery, trauma, or bloodstream infections.
  2. Osteomyelitis:
    • Infection of the spinal bones, known as osteomyelitis, is a common cause of spinal infections.
  3. Discitis:
    • Infection of the intervertebral discs, called discitis, can lead to spinal infections and affect the surrounding structures.

Prevention:

  1. Good Hygiene Practices:
    • Practicing good hygiene, especially before and after surgical procedures, reduces the risk of introducing infection into the spine.
  2. Proper Wound Care:
    • Ensuring proper wound care following surgeries or injuries helps prevent infections from entering the spine.
  3. Healthy Lifestyle:
    • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, supports overall immune system function, reducing the risk of infections.
  4. Prompt Treatment of Infections:
    • Timely and effective treatment of infections in other parts of the body can prevent the spread of bacteria or fungi to the spine.

Treatment:

  1. Antibiotics or Antifungal Medications:
    • The primary treatment for spinal infections involves the use of antibiotics or antifungal medications, depending on the type of infection.
  2. Surgery:
    • In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to drain abscesses, remove infected tissues, or stabilize the spine.
  3. Pain Management:
    • Pain relievers may be prescribed to manage discomfort associated with spinal infections.
  4. Rest and Rehabilitation:
    • Adequate rest and rehabilitation, including physical therapy, are essential components of the recovery process.
  5. Intravenous (IV) Therapy:
    • Intravenous administration of antibiotics or antifungal medications may be required for more severe infections.

Conclusion:

Spinal infections, though rare, can pose significant risks to spinal health. Public awareness of the symptoms, causes, preventive measures, and available treatments is crucial for early detection and intervention. If individuals experience symptoms suggestive of a spinal infection, seeking prompt medical attention is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. By promoting good hygiene practices, maintaining overall health, and understanding the importance of early intervention, individuals can contribute to the prevention and effective management of spinal infections.

    Patient’s Reviews

    Dr. Ratish is an exceptional Orthopedic Surgeon whose expertise and dedication truly stand out. His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his compassionate patient care, make him a remarkable choice for anyone seeking orthopedic treatment. With a deep commitment to improving his patients' quality of life, Dr. Ratish’s skill and professionalism are truly admirable.

    Shefali Chimnani

    Patient

    Dr Ratish is an exceptional specialist in spine care. His expertise is evident in his precise diagnoses and effective treatments. His dedication to patient well-being and extensive experience makes him a top choice for anyone seeking spine-related medical assistance.

    Aman Ahuja

    Patient