When back pain is more than just a strain: Here's how cervical cancer can affect your spine

Back pain linked to cervical cancer, experts warn, is often misdiagnosed as a common strain or muscle issue, which can delay proper treatment (Image: Canva)

Back pain is something most people experience at some point, often linked to poor posture, too much sitting, or even lifting something too heavy. But what if your persistent back ache isn't just a strain or bad posture? Could it be a warning sign of something more serious, like cervical cancer? While rare, cervical cancer can cause unexplained back pain when the cancer spreads to nearby structures such as the pelvic region or the spine itself.

If you’ve been dealing with back pain that won’t go away, it’s important to pay attention to how your body feels. If the pain persists for weeks despite rest, or if it comes with other symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge, it might not be just a muscle strain. Additionally, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or swelling in the legs could signal something more. Pain that radiates and worsens over time, especially in the lower back or hips, should not be ignored.

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When cervical cancer spreads, it may move to areas close to the cervix, including the pelvic region and the spine, says Dr Divya Sehra, Consultant - Gynaecologic Oncology, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi. “A tumour growing near the spine can cause significant bone pain and even compression fractures, making movement and comfort difficult. The cancer may also spread to nearby lymph nodes, leading to swelling and pressure that could affect nerves around the spine. This nerve compression can lead to severe pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs. Sometimes, the body’s natural inflammatory response to cancer can contribute to widespread pain, including in the spine,” she adds.

According to Dr Sehra, back pain linked to cervical cancer is often misdiagnosed as a common strain or muscle issue, which can delay proper treatment. “It’s important that patients pay attention to the red flags and seek medical help if they experience persistent pain alongside other symptoms. The earlier cervical cancer is detected, the more effective the treatment options are, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy,” she says.

If the cancer reaches the spine, further surgical intervention may be required to help reduce the symptoms and manage the progression of the disease. “Additionally, cervical cancer-related back pain can often disguise itself as a typical musculoskeletal issue, which is why it’s so important to recognise the subtle signs and seek early diagnosis. Timely intervention can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of treatments and the outcome,” explains Dr Sehra.

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She adds, “Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, can help identify potential issues long before they escalate into something more serious. If you’re experiencing unexplained back pain, don’t wait, consult a doctor immediately to rule out cervical cancer or catch it early.”

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.