Spinal vascular diseases are problems with the blood vessels that feed or drain the spinal cord. When a vessel clogs, bursts, or tangles, the cord gets starved or soaked, and the body sends out alarms that can start in minutes or sneak in over months. The first alarm is usually pain that feels like a knife in the back. It hits in one spot—most often mid-back or lower neck—and shoots down the ribs, belly, or legs. Unlike ordinary back strain, this pain is worst at rest and may wake you from deep sleep. Next come weak or “lazy” legs. A... Learn more