Common Conditions
Neck Pain.
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A cervical disc injury refers to damage or problems involving the discs in the neck region of the spine. Between each cervical vertebrae there are discs that act as shock absorbers and provide flexibility to the spine. A cervical disc injury can occur due to various factors, such as wear and tear associated with repetitive movement, or trauma.
The injury may involve the disc's outer layer (annulus fibrosus) or result in the herniation of the inner gel-like substance (nucleus pulposus) through the outer layer. Common symptoms of cervical disc injury include neck pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. If the injured disc presses on a nerve, it can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness radiating down the arm. In severe cases, there may be coordination and reflex issues.
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Facet syndrome is a medical condition that involves pain and discomfort in the facet joints of the spine. The facet joints are small, paired joints located between the vertebrae of the spine, and they help facilitate smooth movement and provide stability to the spine.
In facet syndrome, these joints can become irritated, inflamed, or degenerated, leading to pain and stiffness in the affected area of the spine. This condition is often associated with injuries, repetitive stress, and aging.
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Whiplash is a term used to describe a neck injury caused by a sudden and forceful back-and-forth movement of the head. The abrupt movement can strain and damage the soft tissues of the neck, including muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Whiplash injuries are most commonly associated with a trauma such as, a rear-end car collisions or a sports injury. Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and difficulty moving the neck. In some cases, individuals may experience additional symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or tingling in the arms.
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Also known as wry neck, is a condition characterized by the involuntary contraction or tightening of the muscles in the neck, causing the head to tilt or twist to one side. The most common type of torticollis is called spasmodic or idiopathic torticollis, where the cause is often unknown. However, it can also be acquired due to factors such as muscle spasms, neck injuries, or underlying medical conditions.
Torticollis can lead to neck pain and stiffness, and individuals with this condition may find it challenging to move their head freely. In some cases, there may be associated headaches or shoulder discomfort. Torticollis can occur at any age, and while it is usually not a serious medical problem, it can be uncomfortable and impact a person's daily activities.
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Damage or trauma to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that extends from the spinal cord in the neck down to the arm. The brachial plexus is responsible for controlling the muscles and transmitting signals for sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand.
These injuries often occur due to trauma or excessive stretching of the brachial plexus, commonly seen in sports injuries and car accidents. Depending on the severity of the injury, symptoms can range from mild weakness or numbness to more severe paralysis and loss of sensation in the affected arm.
Back Pain.
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Low back pain is a common condition characterized by discomfort or pain in the lower part of the spine, known as the lumbar region. This area of the back supports much of the body's weight and is involved in various movements, making it susceptible to strain and injury.
Symptoms of low back pain vary and may include aching, stiffness, muscle tension, or sharp pain in the lower back. The pain may be localized or radiate into the buttocks and legs, depending on the underlying cause. Acute episodes of low back pain may last a few days to a few weeks, while chronic low back pain persists for more than three months.
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Mid back pain, also known as thoracic back pain, refers to discomfort or pain that occurs in the middle part of the spine. Mid back pain can have various causes, including poor posture, overuse, trauma, or rib pain. Unlike the lumbar spine, which is highly mobile, the thoracic spine is relatively stable and less prone to injury.
Symptoms of mid back pain may include aching, stiffness, or localized tenderness in the middle of the back. Pain may be exacerbated by certain movements or activities, and in some cases, it may radiate around the rib cage.
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It is characterized by the narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spinal canal. This narrowing typically occurs in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions of the spine, but it can also affect the thoracic (mid-back) spine.
The narrowing of the spinal canal in spinal stenosis can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas. These symptoms may be felt in the lower back, buttocks, legs (for lumbar stenosis), or neck, shoulders, and arms (for cervical stenosis).
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A lumbar disc injury refers to damage or issues affecting the discs in the lumbar spine, which is the lower part of the back. These discs act as cushions, absorbing shock and providing flexibility to the spine.
The most common lumbar disc injuries include disc herniation or bulging discs, where the inner gel-like material of the disc may protrude or press against surrounding structures, such as nerves. Symptoms of lumbar disc injuries often include lower back pain, which may radiate into the buttocks and down the legs. If the damaged disc puts pressure on a nerve, it can cause symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs and feet. The pain may worsen with certain movements, such as bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting.
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Often referred to as sciatica, is a type of pain that originates from the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the human body. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down each leg. Sciatic pain occurs when there is compression, irritation, or inflammation of the sciatic nerve or its roots.
Common causes of sciatic pain include herniated discs, bone spurs, or narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis) in the lower back. The hallmark symptom of sciatic pain is a sharp, shooting pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, often from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of one leg. The pain may be accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected leg. The intensity and distribution of sciatic pain can vary widely.
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A condition involving pain and discomfort in the sacroiliac joints, which are the joints connecting the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the ilium (the large pelvic bone). These joints play a crucial role in transmitting the forces between the upper body and the legs. The dysfunction can occur when there is an abnormality in the movement of the sacroiliac joints, either due to stiffness or excessive movement.
Causes may include trauma, pregnancy-related changes, arthritis, or degenerative conditions. The pain associated with sacroiliac joint dysfunction is typically felt in the lower back, buttocks, and may even radiate down the legs. Symptoms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include pain, stiffness, and a feeling of instability in the lower back and pelvic region. The pain may be aggravated by certain activities such as walking, standing, or climbing stairs.
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Is a condition that involves the irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle, a small muscle located deep within the buttocks. The sciatic nerve runs beneath or, in some cases, through the piriformis muscle. When the muscle becomes tight or spasms, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and other symptoms.