Spinal Tuberculosis: Rural India's Hidden Epidemic
Back pain is one of the most common health complaints across India. But in many villages and underserved communities, that pain isn’t just a strain or injury—it’s something much more serious: spinal tuberculosis.
While most awareness campaigns focus on pulmonary tuberculosis, spinal tuberculosis (also known as Pott’s disease) is a hidden epidemic—especially in rural and low-income areas. Left untreated, it can silently destroy the spinal cord, leading to paralysis, deformity, and permanent disability.
What Is Spinal Tuberculosis?
Spinal tuberculosis happens when the TB bacteria infects the bones and discs of the spine. It starts gradually—often with mild back pain or fatigue—but as the infection grows, it can compress the spinal cord and nerves, causing:
- Severe back pain
- Weakness or numbness in the legs
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
If left untreated, spinal TB can lead to irreversible paralysis.
Reshma Khan, a 22-year-old from Kandivali, arrived at V.N. Desai Hospital in a devastating condition. Months of untreated back pain had turned into something far worse. She had developed TB spondylodiscitis—a severe form of spinal TB that had crushed her spinal cord.
By the time she was brought to the hospital, Reshma was completely paralyzed from the waist down. She had lost all control over her bladder and bowel movements. The MRI scan revealed critical spinal cord compression due to tuberculosis.
The Spine Foundation team responded immediately. In a high-risk and rare procedure, they performed a complex surgery involving spinal decompression and Hartshill fixation—a technique used to stabilize and protect the spine.
Just ten days later, Reshma was walking again—with minimal support.
Her recovery is not just a medical success—it’s a story of hope, resilience, and the power of timely, expert spine care.
Why Spinal TB Is a Hidden Threat in Rural India
Spinal TB is not uncommon—but it’s often ignored or misdiagnosed, especially in underserved areas. Here’s why it spreads silently:
-Lack of Diagnosis
In many rural health centers, there’s no access to MRI machines or trained specialists. Chronic back pain is usually treated with painkillers, not investigated further.
-Incomplete Treatment
TB treatment requires 12–18 months of uninterrupted medication. Many patients stop midway—due to lack of awareness, access, or economic hardship.
-Malnutrition and Poor Living Conditions
Low immunity from malnutrition increases TB risk and slows healing—especially in tribal regions.
-Social Stigma
TB is still feared and misunderstood. Many families hide the illness, or only seek help when the symptoms become critical.
How The Spine Foundation Steps In
At The Spine Foundation, we work to bring specialized spine care to places where it’s most needed—rural, tribal, and low-income communities across India.
1. Early Detection through Local Doctors
We train rural doctors through the Local Spine Resource Fellowship (LSRF) to identify and manage spine conditions like TB early—before they cause permanent damage.
2. Conducting Free Spine Surgeries
When conservative treatment fails, our team organizes spine surgery camps in government hospitals and rural medical centers. These surgeries are free of cost to the patient.
3. Post-Operative Follow-Up
Our trained fellows ensure patients continue their TB medication and attend regular follow-ups. We support long-term recovery with physiotherapy and mobility aids.
The Bigger Picture: What the Data Shows
- India reports the highest number of TB cases globally.
- Spinal TB is the most common form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
- In districts like Gadchiroli, Palghar, and Nandurbar, TSF has treated dozens of spinal TB cases that were otherwise undiagnosed.
But behind every number is a human story—like Reshma’s.
Reshma’s Story Is Not an Exception
There are hundreds of Reshmas across India—young men and women who ignore back pain until it becomes paralysis. But spinal TB is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.
At The Spine Foundation, we believe no one should lose their mobility—or their future—because of where they live.
Through awareness, diagnosis, and expert care, we’re making sure more people like Reshma get a second chance to walk, work, and live with dignity.