Neck & back pain
Disc Herniations & Disc Bulge
This is a condition in which the jelly portion in between the vertebrae which typically acts as a shock absorber (nucleus pulposus) which when a tear of the outer ligaments (annulus fibrosus) is present can “leak” into the canal or encroach the nerve root. This is often referred to as a “slipped disc.” Often time nerve root compression is the result of the sharp pain associated and can lead to numbness and tingling in the upper or lower extremities. There are varying degrees of herniations ranging from disc bulging (not technically a herniation but still pain source) to disc sequestration in which the disc material (nucleus pulposus) breaks off in the spinal canal. Depending on the severity most cases have the same long term result with conservative care vs. surgical interventions as long as no advancing neurological signs are present.
Spinal Stenosis
This is an abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal. This narrowing can be present in the central or laterally. Typically this is due to degenerative processes that impinge the nerves over time by taking away the available space for the nerve to “Breathe.” Often times it is hard to stand straight up and feels much relief after sitting.
Sciatica
This irritation of nerve traveling from the lumbosacral spine (L4-S3) into the hips, legs, and feet. Sciatica is when the sciatic nerve has irritation from a possibility of multiple pain sources. Often times sciatica is associated with disc involvement, stenosis, degenerative processes, muscular entrapment, or inflammation to name a few. The important part is finding where the “pinch is coming from.” Most cases respond well with conservative care with close inspection of neurological compromise.
Degenerative Disc Disease
This is a condition in which there is a loss of cushioning of spine. The jelly middle (nucleus pulposus) often over time will “leak” causing the disc height to decrease. This can create nerve impingement and pain. A multitude of factors play into this condition including genetics, prolonged heavy lifting, smoking, and prolonged long term activities.
Osteoarthritis
This is when the body will begin to put extra calcium deposits in and around the joint. This can cause chronic pain, and may be worse in the mornings and with weather changes. This is caused from a variety of factors including age, trauma, and genetics to name a few. Pain from osteoarthritis is from an inflammatory reaction from the arthritis and after restoring proper biomechanics many times an osteoarthritis flare-up and be improved.
Sprains & Strains
This is when there is stretching of the ligaments and tendons that support the lumbar and cervical spine. There are different severities of spain strain that dictate often time how long recovery will take. This often leads to muscle spasm in an attempt to stabilize the area of involvement. It is important for treatment because scar tissue and decreased range of motion are attributed with this condition.
Facet Syndrome
This is when the joints of the spine cause pain. Often times segmental motion is decreased with associated muscle spasm to splint the joint. These are often most problematic with weight bearing activities and extension (bending backwards) when the joints press together.