25-Year-Old Engineer Paralyzed After Ignoring Back Pain: The Hidden Dangers and Warning Signs of Spinal Tuberculosis

A 25-year-old Hyderabad-based software engineer was leading a dynamic life in the UK, balancing fitness routines with his tech career. What began as a minor mid-back ache soon spiralled into a severe condition. Within months, the pain progressed to leg weakness, tingling, and loss of stamina, eventually leaving Ravi unable to walk. With critical scans delayed, a severe spinal infection went undetected. By the time he returned to India, emergency surgery was his only option, but irreversible damage had already set in, causing paraplegia and bladder loss. Ravi’s story highlights how crucial it is to take back pain seriously and seek timely care.

Early warning signs: When mild back pain signals serious neurological risk

At first, Ravi’s backache appeared harmless, and painkillers gave him temporary relief. But the real danger became evident when he noticed leg heaviness, tingling, and a sudden drop in his stamina. Such symptoms indicate possible spinal cord or nerve compression. Experts warn that back pain combined with numbness, weakness, or bladder changes should never be overlooked.

Delayed CT scans turn treatable back pain into life-altering risk

Ravi’s doctor suggested a CT scan, but the earliest slot in the UK was two months away. Believing his condition was stable, Ravi waited - unaware that infections like spinal TB can worsen silently. This delay allowed the disease to advance unchecked, turning a potentially treatable problem into a life-altering disability.

Also Read: Best Sleeping Positions for Spine Health: Expert Tips for a Pain-Free Back

Spinal tuberculosis quickly caused paralysis from Epidural Abscess

By the time Ravi returned to Hyderabad, his condition had deteriorated drastically. Unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair, he was diagnosed with spinal tuberculosis at the D7–D8 vertebrae, complicated by an epidural abscess. This abscess compressed his spinal cord, cutting off blood supply and causing permanent nerve damage. Emergency decompression surgery and anti-TB medication were started, but the damage had already caused paraplegia and bladder dysfunction.

Expert advice: Early diagnosis can prevent lifelong disability

Dr Sudhir Kumar , a Hyderabad-based neurologist, emphasises the need for urgent medical evaluation. He explains that “Delays in scans and specialist intervention can convert a treatable spinal condition into lifelong disability.” His advice is clear: never ignore back pain when neurological symptoms are present - every day counts.

What is Spinal Tuberculosis: Signs and symptoms

Spinal tuberculosis, also known as Pott’s spine, occurs when Mycobacterium tuberculosis infects the spinal bones. Usually beginning in the vertebral body, it gradually destroys bone tissue, spreads to nearby discs, and can lead to the formation of an epidural abscess.

Common signs of spinal TB include:

• Persistent mid- or lower-back pain.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
• Difficulty walking or reduced stamina.
• Spinal deformities such as hunchback.
• General TB symptoms like fever, night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss.

Also Read: How to Protect Your Spine and Improve Posture During Long Desk Hours

Risk factors include:

• A history of pulmonary or other forms of TB.
• Compromised immunity due to diabetes, HIV, or prolonged steroid use.
• Living in TB-prevalent regions or exposure to untreated patients.

If untreated, spinal TB can result in severe disability, permanent paralysis, and spinal deformity.

Why quick scans matter for spine health

Ravi’s ordeal reflects a larger global problem - delays in diagnostic scans. In the UK, long waiting times for imaging have led to several cases where treatable conditions progressed unnecessarily. One patient, for example, experienced significant weight loss while waiting two months for a CT scan. The delayed result initially suggested malignancy, but further testing in India revealed tuberculosis.

In contrast, access to imaging in India is often quicker, especially through government hospitals. Dr Kumar points out that timely scans and specialist care in India frequently prevent spinal TB from reaching irreversible stages. Ravi’s case shows how early diagnosis can be life-saving and life-changing.

Don’t ignore the red flags

Back pain is common, but when accompanied by symptoms like weakness, numbness, or bladder changes, it should never be dismissed. Ravi’s experience is a wake-up call to prioritise spinal health. Quick medical consultation, timely scans, and early treatment can make the difference between recovery and lifelong disability.