Spinal cord compression is a term used for conditions that put unwanted pressure on the spinal cord. The pressure can occur anywhere from the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions causing many different painful symptoms. These types of spinal conditions can be helped with non-invasive treatment methods such as physical therapy, medications, and injections. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to reduce pain and improve your quality of life. The most common spinal surgery for spinal cord compression is called spinal decompression and fusion. The goal of this surgery is to relieve pain and pressure that’s been put on the spine.