5 COMMON SPINAL CONDITIONS AND TREATMENT OPTIONS…

Back pain affects millions of people around the world. It is one of the most common reasons why a person cannot function well at work or school. It can affect anyone regardless of age or gender.

One of the leading causes of back pain is spinal issues or conditions. The spine is essential for a person to properly perform daily functions on different levels. It is connected to all vital parts of the body, so spinal issues can significantly impact day-to-day activities and one’s quality of life.

Types of Spinal Conditions…

There are many types of spinal conditions. Some require spine surgery, while some need only regular exercise, physical therapy, lifestyle change, and certain medications. Generally, however, spinal conditions are categorized into:

Acute Injuries
Wear and Tear Conditions

An example of a spinal condition resulting from acute injuries is lumbar radiculopathy, which affects the nerve root. Pain and numbness are often felt on the legs and in the buttocks.

Another example is disk herniation or herniated disk, which can develop as a cause of injury or excessive strain.

Spinal stenosis, sciatica, and neurogenic claudication are classified as wear and tear spinal conditions (although the latter may also be caused by traumatic injury.)

Here is an infographic showing five of the most common spinal conditions and treatment options that you can choose from. It’s not an exhaustive list, but it illustrates the possible causes of the constant back and neck pain you’ve been feeling for some time now. You’ll know what to tell your orthopaedic specialist or physician when you visit them.

About the author

Dr. Mohamed M. Abdulhamid is a neurosurgeon and the Founding Director and CEO of Royal Spine Surgery in Phoenix, Arizona. He is certified in total cervical disc replacement, or artificial disc replacement, in minimally invasive Coflex® procedure, in minimally invasive discectomy and in intraoperative navigation and image-guided surgery. In addition to travelling for work, Dr. Abdulhamid enjoys travelling with his family. He also enjoys photography and he uses his camera to capture the beautiful landscape surrounding him locally and while travelling.