Your spinal cord is the most important part of your skeletal system. It plays an indispensable role in how you move and feel.
However, most of us fail to give it the attention and care it requires until something goes wrong. Neck and back issues can be extremely challenging; they lead to discomfort and hinder everyday activities, which can affect your overall quality of life.
Let’s explore the importance of spinal health, common causes of neck and back issues, and how to diagnose and treat them.
Understanding the Spine and the Importance of Its Health
The spine, also known as the backbone, is composed of a series of small bones called vertebrae. These vertebrae are divided into three regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (middle back), and lumbar (lower back). Between each vertebra is a disc that acts as a shock absorber and prevents the bones from rubbing against each other.
Your spinal cord, a bundle of nerves running through the central canal of the vertebral column, is responsible for transmitting messages from different parts of your body to the brain. These messages help regulate our balance, posture, and movement.
The spine or vertebral column also supports and protects your spinal cord. A healthy spine ensures your body functions efficiently, preventing injuries and degeneration.
The Role of Orthopedists in Spine Health
Orthopedists, also known as orthopedic surgeons, are medical specialists who focus on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, which includes the spine.
Orthopedists can treat a wide range of spinal conditions, from degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis to injuries such as herniated discs or fractures. They can recommend various treatments, including physical therapy, medication, and surgical intervention if necessary.
Many orthopedists choose to specialize further in spine health, becoming orthopedic spine surgeons. These professionals have additional training specifically in preventing, diagnosing, and treating spinal disorders. They can perform complex surgeries involving the spine, including spinal fusion, disc replacement, and others.
An orthopedist can also recommend preventive measures to uphold your spinal health. These can include maintaining correct posture, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding smoking habits.
Common Issue of Back and Neck
Back and neck pain can stem from a variety of conditions. Here are some of the most common:
- Herniated Disc: When a disc between the vertebrae ruptures or leaks, it can press on the nearby nerves, causing pain.
- Spinal Stenosis: This occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
- Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear-and-tear of the spinal discs can lead to chronic pain.
- Osteoarthritis: The degeneration of cartilage in the joints and discs in the neck and lower back.
Diagnosing Back and Neck Issues
To diagnose back and neck issues, your orthopedist will start with a comprehensive medical history and physical examination. They may ask about the nature of your pain, when it started, and what activities make it better or worse.
In addition, several imaging tests can help visualize the spine and surrounding structures:
- X-rays can show the alignment of your bones and whether you have arthritis or broken bones.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can detect herniated discs or problems with blood vessels and tissues.
- Computed Tomography (CT) scans can provide a detailed view of your spine, especially the bones.
Treating Back and Neck Issues
Treatment for back and neck issues ranges from conservative methods to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the condition.
Conservative Treatments
These include physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your spine and medication to manage pain. Your orthopedist may also recommend cortisone injection to reduce inflammation around the spinal nerves.
Lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight and quitting smoking may also be recommended.
Surgery
In severe cases of spine issues, surgery may be necessary. Common procedures include discectomy (removal of a herniated disc), spinal fusion (joining two or more vertebrae together), and laminectomy (removing part of the bone or soft tissue to relieve pressure on spinal nerves), among others.
Orthopedist Near Me in San Antonio, TX
If you’re experiencing persistent back or neck pain, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention from our orthopedist here at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. Our team of board-certified and exceptionally skilled orthopedic doctors has years of experience in treating spine issues with nonsurgical and surgical treatments.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation with one of our providers, call us today at (210) 692-7400 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
