Conditions
The spine undergoes changes as we age. Sometimes this can result in pain in the neck, back, and limb. Nerves can become compressed, leading to arm or leg pain. Bulging discs can generate back or neck pain. Fractures caused by osteoporosis can lead to discomfort and unwanted changes in our posture.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is caused by wear-and-tear on a spinal disc. The condition can cause weakness, numbness, and hot, shooting pains in the arms or legs. Degenerative disc disease typically consists of a low-level chronic pain with intermittent episodes of more severe pain. Painful disc degeneration is common in the neck (cervical spine) and lower back.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one bone vertebra in the back slides forward over the bone below it, most commonly in the lower spine. In some cases, the condition may cause the spinal cord or nerve roots to be compressed causing back pain and numbness or weakness in one or both legs. In rare cases, it can also lead to losing control over your bladder or bowels.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the bone channel occupied by the spinal nerves or the spinal cord. Some people are born with the disorder, but most develop spinal stenosis as a degenerative disorder over their lifetime. While there are some who will not feel the effects of the narrowing, most people will eventually experience symptoms as they age which include radiating pain, weakness, and/or numbness.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a medical condition in which a person's spine has a sideways curve. The curve is usually "S"- or "C"-shaped. In some the degree of curve is stable, while in others it increases over time. Mild scoliosis does not typically cause problems, while severe cases can interfere with breathing.
Treatment Options
The treatment of neck and back pain can vary. Many patients respond well to:
- Physical therapy
- Acetaminophen
- Ibuprofen
- Muscle relaxants
This, combined with a healthy lifestyle composed of a good diet with regular exercise, can prevent the onset of chronic, more debilitating conditions. Surgery is often reserved for those who do not respond to conservative therapy and have conditions which cause debilitating pain and interferes with quality of life.
Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that joins two or more vertebrae. The surgery can be performed at any level of the spine (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar) to prevent movement between the fused vertebrae. Fusing the vertebrae helps keep the patient from stretching nearby nerves, ligaments, and muscles that may have caused discomfort. Spinal fusion is utilized for several conditions including spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, spondylosis, spinal fractures and scoliosis.
Our Spinal Fusion Technologies:
Mazor X™
Globus ExcelsiusGPS™
7D Surgical FLASH Navigation System™