Description

The spine is composed of many vertebrae, or individual bones of the spine.Together, this stack forms the vertebral column. The topmost section of the vertebral column in the neck, is called the cervical spine. The next section, located in the upper and mid-back, is called the thoracic spine. Below the thoracic spine is the lumbar spine. Finally, the sacral spine, between the hips. Sturdy intervertebral discs connect the vertebrae. The intervertebral discs act as cushions and shock absorbers between the vertebrae. Symptoms Spine conditions vary widely in their presentation. Some cause no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they often include back pain or neck pain. Other symptoms depend on the location and type of problem. Many degenerative conditions do not require surgical treatment, but some may. “Red flags” for evaluation by a spine surgeon include: Back pain accompanied by bowel or bladder incontinence and/or numbness in the areas that would sit on a saddle (so-called saddle anesthesia)—may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a rare neurological condition that should be treated promptly Neck or back pain that includes weakness, numbness, or pins-and-needles in the arms or legs–may indicate myelopathy Neck or back pain that radiates (spreads) into the shoulder, arm, hand, leg, or foot–may indicate radiculopathy Neck or back pain accompanied by fever Neck or back pain that gets worse during the night Neck or back pain accompanied by unexplained weight loss Neck or back pain that continues for several weeks or months Neck pain accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing Neck or back pain following a fall, injury or other trauma Tests and Diagnosis If a patient presents with symptoms associated with spine disorders, the doctor may order the following tests: X-rays – to view images of bones. Soft tissue structures such as the spinal cord, spinal nerves, the disc and ligaments are usually not seen on X-rays, nor are most tumors, vascular malformations, or cysts. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging – provides a detailed image of soft tissue like discs, nerves and the spinal cord. This scan allows the doctor to see how the nerves and spinal canal space are affected by degenerative spine conditions. Computed tomography (CT) scan – provides a detailed image of bone structures in the spine. A CT scan uses computers and X-rays, and provides much more detail than a plain X-ray. Electromyography (EMG) – tests the electrical activity of a nerve root to help determine the cause of pain. Discogram – helps determine whether pain is due to a damaged intervertebral disc. Performed by injecting a contrast dye into the disc and taking several X-rays while also asking the patient about symptoms. Treatments Since the causes of spine conditions will vary from patient to patient, no two treatments will be identical. Before surgery is considered, non-operative treatments may be recommended. These measures include: Medications (pain medications, anti-inflammatory medications, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), topical opioids, and/or epidural injections of steroids or pain medication) Bracing Activity modification Patient education on proper body mechanics (to help decrease the chance of worsening pain or damage to the disc) Physical therapy (will focus on strengthening the muscles of the back/neck and improving flexibility as well as range of motion) Weight control In some cases, surgery may be recommended or required to treat a degenerative condition. The type of procedure depends on the type of condition and its severity. Dr. Madhur Mahna is an expert in treating spine conditions. ABOUT US We always cater to provide compassionate and inexpensive healthcare services, with a talented team of doctors, and ultra-modern technology, ensuring a speedy recovery. In short, we are well aware of the protocols to be followed in such critical situations ans thus we indulge ourselves dedicatedly in the treatment of those who approach us with tender care.

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