The spine is a complex structure that plays a vital role in supporting the body and protecting the spinal cord. However, various conditions can affect the spine, leading to pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility.
Spine specialists are healthcare professionals trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of spinal disorders, helping patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
In this blog, we will delve into some common spinal conditions that are frequently treated by spine specialists.
Common Spinal Conditions
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc happens when the soft inside part of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the outer part. This can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
Herniated discs often occur because of aging or injury. Symptoms can vary based on where the herniated disc is, but you might feel sharp pain, tingling, or muscle weakness.
Treatment options for herniated discs include physical therapy, medications, or surgery. A spine specialist can help decide the best treatment based on how bad the condition is.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis happens when spaces in the spine narrow, squeezing the spinal cord and nerves. This usually happens as people get older and their spine changes, like with arthritis or extra bone growth.
If you have spinal stenosis, you might feel pain, numbness, or muscle weakness in the affected area. These problems can get worse over time and might affect the back, neck, or legs.
To feel better, patients can take medicine, do targeted exercise, or, in serious cases, have surgery to reduce the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. A spine specialist can help choose the best treatment for you.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is when your spine curves in an unusual way, often starting when you are a kid or teenager. Mild scoliosis usually doesn’t cause major problems, but severe scoliosis can be painful and limit mobility.
You might notice scoliosis if one shoulder looks higher than the other, one shoulder blade sticks out more, or your waist looks uneven. Spine specialists can check for scoliosis with a physical exam and diagnostic images of your spine.
How to treat scoliosis depends on how bad the curve is. Possible treatments include watching it to see if it gets worse, wearing a brace, or having surgery. A spine specialist can help decide on the best treatment for you.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease happens when the cushions (discs) in your spine wear out over time, causing pain and discomfort. It’s a common part of getting older and can develop due to aging or excessive strain on your back.
Symptoms include constant back or neck pain, pain that gets worse when you sit or bend, and severe pain flare-ups.
To feel better, spine specialists focus on reducing pain and helping you move easily. They might suggest physical therapy, medications, and changes in your daily habits.
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is when the upper part of your spine curves forward more than usual, making you look hunched over.
Symptoms include a hunched back, back pain, and stiffness. In severe cases, it can make it hard to breathe or cause stomach problems.
Treatment might involve physical therapy, medications, and surgery, if kyphosis is severe. A spine specialist can create a kyphosis treatment plan that suits your needs.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a kind of arthritis that mainly affects the spine and causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Over time, the bones in the spine may fuse together, making the spine less flexible.
Early signs include pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially after not moving for a while. Other signs can include feeling very tired and neck pain.
There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but treatment helps manage the symptoms and prevent problems. A spine specialist might suggest medicines, physical therapy, and exercises to keep you moving.
Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures happen when the bones in the spine break. This can be due to an accident, weak bones (like with osteoporosis), or other health issues. These breaks can cause a lot of pain in the back and make it hard to move.
Signs of spinal fractures include sudden back pain, trouble standing or walking, and changes in the appearance of the spine.
Treatment depends on how bad the fracture is. Options for fractures include managing pain, wearing a brace, or having surgery. A spine specialist will decide the best treatment based on where the fracture is and how serious it is.
Spinal Tumors
Spinal tumors are unusual lumps that grow inside the spine or spinal cord. These spinal tumors can be either harmless (benign) or harmful (malignant).
Symptoms depend on where the tumor is and how big it grows. You might feel back pain, numbness, or weakness in your muscles.
Spine specialists can recommend treating tumors with surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. A spine expert can help by creating a spinal tumor treatment plan tailored for you.
Spine Specialist in Rochester Hills, MI
If you suspect you have a spinal condition or experience persistent back or neck pain, consider consulting our spine specialist here at Ahlgren Spine. Our highly skilled board-certified spine specialists specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of spinal issues with a patient-centered approach.
Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain, a herniated disc, or any other spine-related ailment, our expert team is here to help.
To learn more about our comprehensive services and to schedule a consultation, call us today at (248) 215-8080 or use our appointment form. We look forward to serving you!
