Spine TB, also called spinal TB or Pott’s disease, is TB of the backbone. Early signs are easy to blame on strain, so knowing the warning signs matters.
हिंदी में सार
रीढ़ की टीबी में एक जगह पर 6 हफ़्ते से ज़्यादा कमर या पीठ दर्द, रात में दर्द, दबाने पर दर्द, पीठ में नया उभार (कूबड़), और कमर के चारों ओर पट्टी जैसा दर्द हो सकता है। पैरों में कमज़ोरी, सुन्नपन या पेशाब में दिक्कत हो तो उसी दिन अस्पताल जाएँ।
Signs of spine TB
- Back pain in one placelasting more than 6 weeks
- Pain at nightthat wakes you up
- Tendernesswhen the spot is pressed
- A new bend or humpin the back
- Girdle paina band of pain around the chest or waist
- A soft swellingbeside the spine or in the groin (cold abscess)
Why early testing matters
If spine TB is not treated, it can damage the vertebrae and press on the spinal cord, causing weakness of the legs. The ICMR workflow says any recent weakness, numbness or other nerve problem needs referral to a specialist. Early treatment usually prevents this.
Doctors use X-rays or an MRI scan and, where possible, test a sample. The usual course is about 12 months, set by your doctor. See TB treatment outside the lungs.
Get help the same day if
- new weakness or numbness in the legs
- trouble passing urine or stool
- sudden worsening of back pain with fever
Symptoms alone cannot tell you whether you have TB. If you have a cough or fever for 2 weeks or more, weight loss, night sweats or blood in your phlegm, go to your nearest government health facility and ask for a TB test. TB testing and treatment are free there.
Free TB helpline Ni-kshay Sampark: 1800-11-6666.
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Frequently asked questions
Is spine TB the same as Pott’s disease?
Yes. Pott’s disease is the medical name for TB of the spine.
Does all back pain mean TB?
No. Most back pain has other causes. Back pain in one place for more than 6 weeks, with night pain, tenderness or fever, needs a check.
Do I need surgery for spine TB?
Most people are treated with medicines. Surgery is sometimes needed for nerve problems or deformity, as the specialist decides.
What are recovery symptoms in spine TB?
Pain usually eases gradually and fever settles. Your doctor checks progress with examinations and scans. Never stop medicines because pain has gone.
Medical review note. Written from official TB programme guidelines; last checked 16 October 2026. This is general information, not medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, see a doctor at your nearest government health facility.