Treating spinal cord compression resulting from secondary bone cancer

A common place for a secondary bone cancer to occur is the spine. This can cause back pain and make the spine weaker. Radiotherapy is commonly used to treat secondary cancer in the spine, but occasionally surgery may be used to relieve pain and strengthen the spine. High doses of steroids are also often used. These can help to reduce swelling, that may be pressing on the nerves of the spinal cord. Steroids will usually only be used for a short period of time.