Arachnoiditis is an inflammatory process involving the arachnoid lining of the spinal cord. This is the middle cushioning layer that looks like a spider web. When this layer is inflamed the spinal cord and the nerve roots become irritated and dysfunctional. This inflammation can cause an almost unbearable pain of the extremities. The scarring that can follow can cause permanent neurological symptoms. .

How can you tell you have it?

Severe pain in the low back and legs
Weakness or paralysis of the lower extremities
Saddle anesthesia
Bowel or bladder dysfunction
Autonomic (circulation) changes

Who gets it?

No one can predict yet, who will get arachnoiditis. We do know the risk factors.

Hx  of : 

Myelogram, especially with an oil based contrast material
Spinal surgery
Spinal trauma
Epidural steroid injections or blocks
Infection such as T.B. or syphilis
Tumors

Treatment:

Manage the pain aggressively, which means seeing an interventional anesthesiologist
Adapt to whatever degree of physical handicap you have
Keep as functional as you can
Educate your caregivers
Find support

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
The best place to start

National Organization for Rare Disorders
All of the different causes of arachnoiditis

Arachnoiditis.co.uk
Especially good information on the risks of epidural injections

Circle of Friends
With Arachnoiditis" (COFWA).
COFWA offers education, friendship, caring, sharing, and advocacy to all who are in need.

Spine Universe
An excellent source of information about all spinal disorders

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