Prostate cancer Anticipating Complications

Executive summary by prostate cancer foundation

The most significant complication from bone metastases is spinal cord compression. A weakening of a vertebra by a prostate cancer bone metastasis can result in the bones of the spinal column collapsing one on top of the other, compressing the spinal cord housed within the bones as well as the nerves that run out from it.

For example, because bone metastases typically occur around the lower back and upper legs, compression of the spinal cord at that point can cause back pain, leg pain or weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control. The earlier new fractures or a spinal cord compression is detected, the easier it is to treat.