What is Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy?
Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is one of the most common reasons that spinal cord dysfunction occurs in elderly patients. As we all know, the spinal cord is one of the most important structures in the human body. Damage to this structure in any way, shape, or form may result in a cascade of symptoms. This is only natural, of course, as the spinal cord is the main neural thoroughfare for…
Sleep Ergonomics: How to Sleep with Back Pain
If you have back pain, then you are most certainly not alone. The vast majority of adults experience back pain at some point during their lives. In fact, back pain is the most common culprit of job-related disability in the United States. And, going hand-in-hand with that statistic, back pain is also a leading factor in missed work days. Surveys often show that in the past three months, at least…
Symptoms of Facet Joint Pain
Facet joint pain, also known as facet joint syndrome, occurs when an individual experiences pain between two spinal vertebrae. Facet joints are found at each level along the back of your spine. These joints allow you to bend and twist by making your back flexible.
More specifically, healthy facet joints contain cartilage which makes these movements possible. The cartilage also provides support…
Cervical Herniated Disc Symptoms & Treatments
A cervical herniated disc occurs when the soft core of a cervical disc leaks out of its harder outer shell. Although this condition can be asymptomatic, pain occurs when the herniated material compresses a nearby nerve root. Usually, this form of ruptured disc affects the 30-50 age group.
In addition to wear and tear, cervical disc herniations may stem from some kind of trauma or neck injury.…
Common Culprits of Upper Back Pain
Pain in the upper back typically results from muscle overuse, poor posture, or injury. Although treatments will vary depending upon the exact nature of your condition, most cases are easily remedied with physical therapy, rest, and gentle exercise.
The upper back refers to the region between the bottom of the ribcage and the base of the neck. There are 12 bones (T1- T12) that compose this…
Conservative & Surgical Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Treatments
Suffering a spinal cord injury (SCI) can be a devastating event. Those who sustain an SCI will require immediate medical treatment. This is often followed by extensive rehabilitation. By using a variety of treatments as soon as possible, you can reduce your risk of sustaining even more damage. In addition, SCI patients who receive early intervention can even regain some of their functional…
The Effects of Vitamin D & Calcium on Bone Health
Obtaining the right nutrients is one of the best ways toward achieving a life of healthier bones. Most people probably think of calcium when they think of their diet and bone health. But, believe it or not, vitamin D is just as important. In fact, proper vitamin D intake can prevent bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
Of course, this is not to suggest that vitamin D is better for your bones…
Laminectomy Vs. Laminotomy: Which is Right for You?
Laminotomy and laminectomy are two different types of spinal decompression surgeries that involve accessing the lamina of the spine. The lamina is a bony plate that covers the back of the spinal canal. The difference between these two different procedures is glaring. A laminectomy refers to an operation that totally removes the lamina. On the other hand, a laminotomy is simply the partial removal…
Defining Spondylosis, Spondylitis, & Spondylolisthesis
When dealing with lower back spinal issues, the terminology can be confusing. While some think certain terms are interchangeable, they actually describe different types of conditions that need unique care. Do you want to learn more about a recent “spondy” diagnosis related to your lower back pain? This guide will help you understand the differences among these conditions.
So what do these…
When Should You See a Physiatrist?
Usually, when you suffer from an injury involving the bones, muscles, or other soft tissues, you may think one of two things. Either, “I need to see an orthopedic surgeon,” or “I need to see a sports medicine doctor.” And in truth, that’s not really such a bad idea.
But the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries isn’t limited to these two stripes of doctors. In fact, physiatrists often address…