What should you know about spinal compression prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer can spread to the bones of the spine. A tumour or weakened vertebra may press on the spinal cord or the nerves leaving it. This can cause persistent or band-like back pain, pain travelling around the body or down a limb, tingling, numbness and weakness. Difficulty passing urine can occur, but new loss of bladder or bowel control is especially urgent.

Doctors may use urgent imaging, often magnetic resonance imaging, to locate the pressure and assess spinal stability. The treatment plan depends on the level of compression, neurological findings, scan results and the wider cancer picture.

Call your oncology team or emergency service immediately if compression is suspected, and avoid unnecessary bending or lifting until assessed. Treatment may include steroids to reduce swelling, [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) to treat tumour pressure, or surgery to stabilise the spine or remove compressing tissue. Other prostate cancer treatments may be considered, including [Bone-Strengthening Therapy](/treatments/supportive-and-palliative-care/bone-strengthening-therapy/) and [Targeted Radioisotope Therapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/targeted-radioisotope-therapy/).

Seek emergency help now for new leg weakness, difficulty walking, numbness around the inner thighs or buttocks, loss of bladder or bowel control, or rapidly worsening back pain. Do not wait for a routine prostate appointment. Difficulty passing urine also needs prompt assessment, especially when paired with back pain or leg symptoms; see [Difficulty Passing Urine](/symptoms/difficulty-passing-urine/).

Ask whether your symptoms suggest spinal compression, how quickly imaging is needed, whether the spine is stable, which treatment protects nerve function, and how the plan fits with your wider [Prostate Cancer](/conditions/prostate-cancer/) care.