Spinal Tumor and Cancer Symptoms

January 12, 2026

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Yvette Theodore, N.P., Department of Medical Oncology & Therapeutics Research, City of Hope^® Cancer Center Duarte.

Spinal tumors are very rare and most spinal tumors are benign (non-cancerous). However, because they affect the central nervous system, even benign spinal tumors may lead to potentially serious health problems. Many patients with a spinal tumor don’t experience any symptoms – especially if the tumor is at an early stage. Others may experience back pain, spinal deformities or other symptoms of the condition.

Early Signs of Spinal Tumor

Back pain can be an early sign of a spinal tumor, but it can also be caused by a wide range of other health issues. Pain from a spinal tumor is often persistent – meaning it doesn’t go away – and may be worse at certain times of day.

Why Is Spinal Tumor Pain Worse at Night?

There are several reasons why spinal tumor pain may be worse at night or after waking up in the morning. Lying down on your back for an extended period of time can put more pressure on nerves or tissues that are being compressed by the tumor, causing more discomfort. During sleep, the body also produces less of the hormones that help manage how we feel pain.

What Are the Symptoms of a Spinal Tumor?

While every patient is different, there are some common symptoms of a spinal tumor. Which symptoms a person experiences depends on a wide range of factors, including where the tumor is and how big it is. Signs of a spinal tumor may include:

• Persistent back pain that gets worse over time or is worse at night or after sleeping
• A deformity (bump or curve) in the spine
• Weakness, numbness or other neurological problems in the legs, knees or ankles
• Problems with incontinence or bowel movements
• Muscle spasms, twitches or loss of muscle function
• Weight loss, fever or fatigue, in the case of later-stage spinal tumors

Anyone who experiences any of these symptoms should make an appointment to see their doctor.

Spinal Tumor Symptoms in Kids

Though extremely rare, spinal tumors can affect children. Pediatric spinal tumors cause many of the same symptoms as adult spinal tumors, including back pain, spinal deformities, muscle spasms or changes to continence. Many of these can be normal symptoms of a child’s development or related to common childhood illnesses. However, parents should ensure their child sees their pediatrician if they spot any of these symptoms in their child.