3D medical rendering of the spine showing inflammation due to spinal infection.

Treatment for Spinal Infection

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What Is a Spinal Infection?

Spinal infections refer to conditions like vertebral osteomyelitis, discitis, and spinal epidural abscesses. These infections may involve the spinal bones, discs, soft tissue, or spinal canal. Causes include bacteria (such as Staphylococcus aureus), fungi, or other pathogens entering the spine through the bloodstream, direct injury, or post-surgical infection.

3D medical illustration showing inflamed vertebrae and spinal discs, indicating spinal infection.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is critical. Evaluation includes:

  • Medical history and physical exam
  • MRI or CT imaging to assess inflammation, abscesses, or disc involvement
  • Blood tests (e.g., white blood cell count, ESR, CRP)
  • Biopsy or spinal tap to identify the infectious organism

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Antibiotic therapy: Typically IV antibiotics tailored to the specific organism

Antifungal medications: Used when fungal infections are diagnosed

Pain management: NSAIDs or prescribed pain reliever

Activity modification and bracing: In select cases to reduce spinal stress

Monitoring with imaging and labs to track response to treatment

Surgical Treatment Options

Surgery may be required if there’s:

Spinal cord compression

Abscess formation

Instability or deformity

Failure of antibiotic therapy

Procedures may include:

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Patient Support and Rehabilitation

Recovery involves:

  • A full course of antibiotics (often 4–6 weeks or more)
  • Physical therapy to regain mobility and strength
  • Regular imaging and lab follow-ups
  • Addressing underlying risk factors to prevent recurrence

Related Services

We also provide care for:

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FAQ

Diagnosis typically includes imaging (MRI), blood work, and possibly a biopsy to identify the organism causing the infection.

Yes. Many cases are managed with antibiotics alone. Surgery is reserved for severe cases, structural instability, or abscesses.

Treatment can last 4–12 weeks depending on the type of infection, organism involved, and severity.

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