Spine Pain
Spinal pain is one of the most frequent reasons people visit their doctor. The spine is one of the most complex and important systems in the human body, and back pain will affect 80% of people at some point in life. Fortunately, the most common reason for spinal pain arises from the muscles and can be treated conservatively. However, the source of pain may be more complex from pressure or pinching of a spinal nerve. Treatment requires specialists with the knowledge and expertise to develop an effective individualized treatment plan for each patient. AOKCs fellowship-trained, board-certified experts are highly trained and dedicated to helping patients understand their pain and their treatment options. Orthopedic surgeons are widely experienced in treating spine disorders, including disc problems, scoliosis, arthritis, fractures, stenosis and other deformities as well as the causes of general pain and stiffness.
The spinal column is made up of 24 bones (vertebrae) that span from the base of the skull to the tailbone. These make up the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum, and coccyx regions of the spine, or the neck, mid back, lower back, and tailbone area. Between each vertebra are rubbery discs that act as cushions. Surrounding the spine are ligaments, muscles, and nerves that facilitate various movements. The spinal cord consists of a bundle of nerves that run through the spinal canal. These nerves transmit messages from the brain and spinal cord to all parts of the body. Any damage to these structures can result in back, neck, or other forms of nerve-related pain.
While most back and neck pain cases improve with home treatments like heat, ice, and over-the-counter medications, medical attention is recommended if pain persists or worsens. Muscle and ligament injuries are common causes of acute back pain, lasting up to 12 weeks, while persistent pain beyond this period is considered chronic.
With suspected spinal cord and nerve-related conditions, when symptoms include numbness or shooting pains, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible. Additionally, immediate attention is essential for pain resulting from injuries such as car accidents or falls.
Back, neck, and spine-related pain can arise from various conditions, including arthritis of the spine, degenerative disc disease, fractures, pinched nerves (radiculopathy), and other conditions outlined below.
Disclaimer
The topics presented here are for information purposes only. They are not a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before making healthcare decisions. Be sure to call a healthcare provider immediately for medical emergencies.
Conditions
- Neck Pain
- Low Back Pain
- Back Pain
- Neck and Spine Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
- Whiplash
- Herniated Disc (Lumbar)
- Herniated Disc (Cervical)
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Disc Replacement
- Facet Joint Arthropathy
- Facet Joint Arthritis
- Hyperlordosis
- Kyphosis
- Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve)
- Lumbar Radiculopathy
- Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
- Sciatica
- Scoliosis
- Cervical Stenosis
- Spondylolysis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Spinal Stenosis
- Lumbar Facet Joint Arthropathy
- Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
- Cervical Spondylosis