Understanding Common Spine Conditions
The spine provides the body with structural support and protects the spinal cord connecting the brain to the rest of the body. But the spine is as susceptible to problems as crucial. If you also are suffering from spinal problems, you aren’t alone. Spinal problems have become common, considering the various age and lifestyle changes happening throughout the years. So, let’s look at some of the most common spine conditions.
5 Common Spine Conditions
Here are five commonly observed spine conditions.
1. Slipped Disc
The disc is a cushion positioned between each vertebra to avoid scraping. But with age, the disc dries out. Continued stress on the back can tear or break the disc, leading to a herniated disc. It could go unnoticed. But the condition can hurt your arms, or they might feel numb or tingly. You may treat the condition through medications, based on the doctor’s diagnosis and per their prescription. But if medications or non-surgical treatment options fail, you may need to operate the condition.
2. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is another common condition affecting many worldwide. The vertebrae have slippery tissue on each end, enabling frictionless back flexing. But if the cartilage roughens or wears down, the vertebrae begin rubbing against each other and cause stiffness or pain in the back. The condition is irreversible. But you can control it through doctor-prescribed medications. Osteoarthritis is more common in women than in men.
3. Sciatica
Are you experiencing a lower back that runs through the bottom into the leg? Then, your sciatic nerve could be at fault. Elements like the bone spur, herniated disc, or other spinal-related conditions could be stressing the sciatic nerve. The name of the condition is sciatica, usually affecting one side of the body. Treatment options like painkillers, cold packs, hot packs, stretching, etc., may provide some relief. But a doctor’s intervention is a must for a well-suited and sustainable treatment.
4. Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis is the outcome of the breakdown of the neck as the person ages. Some common resultant conditions include the vertebrae sprouting an extra bone called spurs to enhance strength or slipped discs in the area. Additionally, the ligaments connecting the vertebrae may also feel tight. It could impede the neck’s natural movements. Thus, the condition needs prompt medical intervention to prevent the condition from intensifying and causing permanent damage.
5. Spinal Stenosis
The spine comprises spaces to allow the spinal cord and nerves to branch from it. But when those spaces begin shrinking, the bones can start pressing against the nerves. Usually, the patient wouldn’t notice it. But if the nerves suffer from stress, the patients may suffer from numbness, tingling, or a feeling of muscle weakness. The surgeons might operate on the condition making more space for the nerves.
Spine-related disorders or conditions demand prompt medical intervention. Our spinal cord can ensure quite a lot. Hence, these problems are often ignored. Or else, their treatment is often delayed. But being unjust towards spinal problems could lead to several serious repercussions. So, do not ignore spinal concerns. Visit Ranka Hospital and receive proper consultation, diagnosis, and treatment for your spine-related conditions. Call us at 020 – 24261528 to book an appointment with our doctors.
