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Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

Last updated: February 8, 2026 Medically reviewed by: RxHarun Orthopedic Specialist Doctor Reading time: 6 min read

Posterior spinal artery syndrome (PSAS), also known as posterior spinal cord syndrome, is a rare condition that occurs due to the disruption of blood flow in the posterior spinal artery. This artery supplies blood to the back part of the spinal cord, which is crucial for transmitting sensory information from the body to the brain.

Types of Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

PSAS can manifest in different forms, depending on the location and extent of the spinal cord affected. The two main types are:

  1. Complete PSAS: Involves a complete blockage of blood flow to the posterior spinal cord.
  2. Incomplete PSAS: Partial blockage where some blood flow remains, leading to varying degrees of sensory impairment.

Causes of Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

Understanding the causes helps in identifying risk factors and preventive measures. Common causes include:

  1. Atherosclerosis: Narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup.
  2. Traumatic Injury: Physical damage to the spine affecting blood flow.
  3. Thrombosis: Blood clot formation within the spinal artery.
  4. Vascular Malformations: Abnormalities in the blood vessels of the spine.
  5. Inflammatory Conditions: Such as vasculitis affecting spinal blood vessels.

Symptoms of Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

Recognizing symptoms early is crucial for timely intervention. Symptoms may include:

  1. Sensory Loss: Decreased ability to feel temperature, pain, or touch.
  2. Weakness: Difficulty moving or controlling muscles.
  3. Loss of Reflexes: Reduced or absent reflex responses.
  4. Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction: Problems with urinary or fecal incontinence.
  5. Sexual Dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining arousal.

Diagnostic Tests for Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

Prompt diagnosis involves various tests to confirm the condition and its severity:

  1. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of the spinal cord.
  2. CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Helps visualize spinal structures and blood flow.
  3. Angiography: Uses contrast dye to outline blood vessels for detailed assessment.
  4. Electromyography (EMG): Measures electrical activity in muscles to assess nerve damage.
  5. Blood Tests: To rule out underlying conditions like vasculitis or clotting disorders.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments for Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

Managing PSAS often involves supportive therapies to improve quality of life:

  1. Physical Therapy: Exercises to maintain muscle strength and flexibility.
  2. Occupational Therapy: Techniques to perform daily activities more independently.
  3. Assistive Devices: Wheelchairs, braces, or walking aids for mobility.
  4. Psychotherapy: Counseling to cope with emotional and psychological impacts.
  5. Lifestyle Modifications: Adjustments in diet and daily routine to accommodate physical limitations.

Drugs Used in the Treatment of Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or underlying causes:

  1. Anticoagulants: To prevent further blood clot formation.
  2. Pain Relievers: For managing neuropathic pain.
  3. Muscle Relaxants: To reduce muscle spasms and stiffness.
  4. Vasodilators: Medications to widen blood vessels and improve circulation.
  5. Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce spinal cord swelling.

Surgeries for Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

In severe cases or to address specific complications, surgical interventions may be necessary:

  1. Thrombectomy: Surgical removal of blood clots obstructing spinal blood flow.
  2. Vascular Repair: Surgery to correct abnormalities in spinal blood vessels.
  3. Spinal Fusion: Stabilization of the spine to prevent further damage.
  4. Decompression Surgery: Relieving pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
  5. Intrathecal Drug Delivery: Implantation of a device for targeted drug delivery to the spinal cord.

Prevention of Posterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

While some causes are unavoidable, reducing risk factors can help prevent PSAS:

  1. Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise and a balanced diet to prevent vascular diseases.
  2. Avoiding Trauma: Taking precautions to prevent spinal injuries.
  3. Managing Underlying Conditions: Such as diabetes or hypertension that can contribute to vascular issues.
  4. Quitting Smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk of vascular diseases.
  5. Regular Medical Check-ups: Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

When to See a Doctor

Early consultation is crucial if you experience symptoms suggestive of PSAS:

  1. Sudden Onset of Sensory Loss: Especially if localized to the back or lower extremities.
  2. Unexplained Muscle Weakness: Difficulty moving limbs or loss of coordination.
  3. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Function: Such as incontinence or difficulty urinating.
  4. Persistent Pain or Numbness: In the back, legs, or other areas supplied by the spinal cord.
  5. Recent Trauma to the Spine: Even if symptoms appear mild initially.

 

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this article a replacement for a doctor?

No. It is educational content only. Patients should consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment.

When should I seek urgent care?

Seek urgent care for severe symptoms, rapidly worsening condition, breathing difficulty, severe pain, neurological changes, or any emergency warning sign.

References

Add references, clinical guidelines, textbooks, journal articles, or trusted medical sources here. You can edit this area later with a custom field named _rx_references.

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Written by Dr. Harun Ar Rashid, MD - Arthritis, Bones, Joints Pain, Trauma, and Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Md. Harun Ar Rashid, MPH, MD, PhD, is a highly respected medical specialist celebrated for his exceptional clinical expertise and unwavering commitment to patient care. With advanced qualifications including MPH, MD, and PhD, he integrates cutting-edge research with a compassionate approach to medicine, ensuring that every patient receives personalized and effective treatment. His extensive training and hands-on experience enable him to diagnose complex conditions accurately and develop innovative treatment strategies tailored to individual needs. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Harun Ar Rashid is dedicated to medical education and research, writing and inventory creative thinking, innovative idea, critical care managementing make in his community to outreach, often participating in initiatives that promote health awareness and advance medical knowledge. His career is a testament to the high standards represented by his credentials, and he continues to contribute significantly to his field, driving improvements in both patient outcomes and healthcare practices. Born and educated in Bangladesh, Dr. Rashid earned his BPT from the University of Dhaka before pursuing postgraduate training internationally. He completed his MD in Internal Medicine at King’s College London, where he developed a special interest in inflammatory arthritis and metabolic bone disease. He then undertook a PhD in Orthopedic Science at the University of Oxford, conducting pioneering research on cytokine signaling pathways in rheumatoid arthritis. Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Rashid returned to clinical work with a fellowship in interventional pain management at the Rx University School of Medicine, refining his skills in image-guided joint injections and minimally invasive pain-relief techniques.