Your spine is essential to your daily function and quality of life. It’s made up of 33 bones called vertebrae, which are separated by discs. These discs act as shock absorbers, allowing your spine to move freely.
The spinal cord is a collection of nerves that runs through the vertebrae and connects the brain to the rest of the body. This system is responsible for sending signals back and forth, allowing you to move and feel.
Many different spinal conditions can cause pain and other symptoms. Some of the most common include degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and herniated discs. Keep reading to learn more about these conditions and how they can be treated!
Disc herniation
Lumbar disc herniation is a condition that occurs when the discs in your lower back become damaged and begins to bulge or rupture. This can happen due to age-related wear and tear or from an injury. Disc herniation can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in your legs and lower back. If the herniation is severe, it can also cause bowel or bladder problems.
Treatment for lumbar disc herniation typically involves rest, ice, and pain medication. In some cases, physical therapy or surgery may be necessary. If you think you may have a disc herniation, it's important to see a doctor so they can diagnose and treat the condition.
Degenerative spondylolisthesis
Degenerative spondylolisthesis is a condition in which the vertebrae of the spine begin to slip out of place. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as a weakening of the ligaments that hold the vertebrae in place or a loss of bone density in the spine. Degenerative spondylolisthesis often occurs in older adults and can lead to a variety of problems, such as pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving.
If you think you may have degenerative spondylolisthesis, it's important to see a doctor for an evaluation. They will likely order X-rays or an MRI to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. Treatment for degenerative spondylolisthesis typically focuses on managing pain and improving mobility.
Cervical myelopathy is a condition that results when the spinal cord in the neck is compressed. This can lead to pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty with coordination and balance. In severe cases, it can cause paralysis.
Cervical Myelopathy
Cervical myelopathy is often caused by degenerative changes in the spine, such as arthritis. It can also be caused by trauma, tumour, or inflammation. Treatment typically involves surgery to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord.
If you think you may have cervical myelopathy, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Early detection and treatment are important to prevent the condition from progressing and causing more serious problems.
Spinal conditions can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. While some can be resolved with at-home remedies, others may require professional intervention. If you are experiencing back pain, it is important to see a doctor or spine specialist to rule out any serious conditions. An MRI can be used as a diagnostic tool to identify spinal conditions.
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