Posts Tagged ‘Spinal Column’
Back Pain and Diagnosis Problems
Did you know that many doctors miss areas of concern that could lead to cures? Did you know that back pain is common, yet many doctors fail to see the cause? The answer is simple. The reason is most medical doctors have little experience in the system of healing so to speak. Rather many doctors focus on prescribing medicines and searching for answers, which many times rest in front of them.
Don’t get me wrong, good doctors reach everywhere, yet these people lack educational knowledge of the spinal column, Central Nervous System and so on. As well, these people fail to see that many causes of Back pain rests in misaligned bones, or spine. Of course, diseases may cause Back pain as well. Sitting too long, lack of stretch exercises, etc, all cause lower back pain.
If the back pain is, serious it will often show up in MRI or CT scans. X-rays will show back conditions, however since doctors review all areas, except the alignment of the bones and spine, thus most times the x-rays only reveal what the doctor wants to see. This happens to many people, including myself. A pro in analyzing the spine and bones is the man you want to see if you have chronic back conditions.
The types of back pain include sciatica. The back problem may be listed as slip disk in some instances, yet the pain often challenges doctors diagnose since a sharp, electrical shock-like and distressing ache starts at the back and then travels to the legs. Sometimes the pain is intermittent, while other times the pain may be chronic.
The particular problem often requires surgery to correct. Sciatica according to few experts is one of the worst backaches endured, since even when the pain has mild pain it is difficult to bend forward and over to tie a shoe. The problem rests in the spine, joints, and connective elements of the spinal column that links to the entire body.
The spinal column makes up muscles, bones, central nerves, etc. What holds the spine together is disks, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments, etc? When a person stands erect, the spine’s elements will join to apply tension. You can visualize the tension by considering how a string will respond when you pull it down. The changes assist the body in mobility; as well, it determines how the body responds to movement.
The lower back is made up of large-scale structures, including the backbone and the hip joints. The hip joints connect to the pelvis and each element joins with the spinal column at the triangle bone in the lower back and at the baseline of the spine that joins the hipbones on either side and forms part of the pelvis. (Sacrum)
The large bones attach to the legs, which provide us strength and support to the vertical spinal column. We have thick bones that start at the opposite side of the thick cord of nerve tissues (Spinal Cord) that is near the neck. Along this area, the joints are thick and the bones start to thin and shrink. The spinal cord is a ‘thick whitish’ nerve cord surrounded by tissues and extends from the base of the brain and continues to the spinal column, giving mount to a pair of spinal nerves that contribute the body.
Combined these elements give us the ability to move and provides flexibility. In addition, the organs are directed by these elements.
The spine is held up by the larger group of bones at the lower region, smaller base, and the top architectures. Stress occurs at the area, since below this region larger muscles work by directing and sparking movement. This is how the legs are able to move, which brute stress is applied to the vertebrae. At the back, we also have a lumbar spinal disk. The disk is affected by the brute stress, since each time we bend and sit, we are applying more than 500 pounds to this area, yet it stretches to a ‘square inch’ around the disks and per count along the area.
John Pawlett
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/back-pain-and-diagnosis-problems-98622.html
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What Are The Causes Of Back Pain?
The spinal column may be divided broadly into two main sections. The thoracic or upper spine helps protect the organs that it covers and facilitates the different postures that we adopt. The lumbar or the lower half of the spine is responsible for movement, as is the neck.
Everyone, some more than others, has experienced back pain at some point in his life. The Causes for back pain are many. Most people suffer from lower back pain and though upper back pain is not as common, it does occur.
The lower back is susceptible to injuries, as complaints from those who suffer a backache testify. The lumbar region is prone to discs being displaced. Discs degenerate with age and sometimes the spinal column narrows abnormally.
Backache in the upper portion of the back is the result of aberrations or damage to the thoracic backbone. Pain could be caused by irritation of the fibrous tissue between the muscles and due to the malfunctioning of joints. A deterioration of the discs in the upper back may instigate such a complaint as well. These problems often go unnoticed by those who suffer from pain in the upper region of the back, since there is restricted movement in this part of the spinal cord. For the same reason, the upper back is not as prone to injury as the lower portion. It is firmer from not being subjected to great mobility.
The main cause for upper back pain is defective posture. People who regularly work at computers are liable to develop upper backache. This kind of pain often exists in conjunction with pain in the neck and shoulder. Trauma after an accident where the upper vertebrae are injured can cause intense pain. This is not common. However if the case arises, rush the individual to a doctor. The earlier tests are run to assess the damage, the sooner can the treatment begin.
If a joint malfunctions or an irritation caused by the muscles brings pain, there are ways to combat the discomfort and ease the excruciating pain some may be racked with. Exercising everyday may lessen the pain. Physiotherapy sessions might cure the condition as well. An osteopath could alleviate the pain by chiropractic manipulation of the spine. Massages by reputed practitioners, especially deep massages to treat the condition, could bring some much-needed relief. Acupuncture, an alternative gaining in popularity could be your answer. A doctor may choose to inject local anesthesia into the points that trigger off the pain. Chemists may sell medicines that bring relief. The most common antidote would be drugs prescribed by your doctor.
If you have a persistent backache, don’t neglect it. It is better to get to the root of the cause. Once that has been established, you can follow it up with the right treatment, depending on the severity your case.
Stephen Madsen
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/what-are-the-Causes-of-back-pain-87319.html
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Stenosis – Back Pain Test
Stenosis Back Pain originates in the spinal canal itself. Stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, and compresses the nerves inside it. This compression of the nerves can lead to stenosis Back pain, numbness in the legs, and the loss of bladder or bowel control. If left untreated, stenosis Back Pain can eventually become paralysis.
It is estimated that approximately 400,000 Americans currently have spinal stenosis back pain. That number is expected to increase as Baby Boomers age.
Defining Stenosis Back Pain
You probably know that the spinal column protects your spinal cord, a bundle of nerves, from being injured. In spinal stenosis, the spine narrows in one or more of three places: space at the center of the spine; canals where nerves branch outward from the spine itself; a space between the spine’s bones (vertebrae).
Stenosis back pain occurs when the narrowing puts pressure on the nerves inside the spinal column. Although this can occur in younger people, it is most often a complaint of those over 50 years of age.
Causes of Stenosis Back Pain
Spinal stenosis back pain can be caused by a number of factors.
1. Age is a primary factor. As we age, bands of supportive tissue in the spine may harden and thicken. Our bones and joints may enlarge as they age. We may get bone spurs on the spine – places where bone surfaces bulge outward.
2. Arthritis is another cause of spinal stenosis and accompanying stenosis back pain. Either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may be to blame. Osteoarthritis is the more common of the two. This type of arthritis usually is seen in middle-aged and older people, and does not go away. Osteoarthritis can cause the bone spurs described above. Rheumatoid arthritis is usually seen in younger people, and is not usually a cause of spinal stenosis back pain.
3. Inherited factors may also lead to stenosis and stenosis back pain. Some genetic conditions, such as a small spinal canal or curved spine, can cause spinal stenosis.
4. Other causes for your stenosis back pain could include calcium deposits, fluoride accumulation, or injuries.
Symptoms of Stenosis Back Pain
Stenosis back pain usually occurs in the neck or back. In addition to the stenosis back pain, you may feel pain down one leg, or numbness, weakness, cramping, and pain in legs or arms as the nerves are compressed.
Stenosis Back Pain Test Problem
The problem with tests for spinal stenosis is that the conditions shares symptoms with so many other disease. The result has too often been costly misdiagnoses and unnecessary back surgery, according to Andrew Haig, M.D., associate professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Michigan Medical School.
The following 3 tests are used to diagnose the cause of stenosis back pain.
1. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) -radio waves to picture the spine
2. Computerized axial tomography (CAT) – X-ray series to picture the spine
3. Electromyogram (EMG)- a test that not only gives a picture of nerves, but also tests nerve function, showing if there is actual nerve damage
Best Stenosis Back Pain Test
Of the three, the oldest, Electromyogram (EMG) has been found to be the best. This test has been around as long as, or longer than the Baby Boomers themselves, but a study published in the January 2006 issue of “Spine” shows that it is by far the best of the three tests.
That study, done by the University of Michigan Health System, shows that the EMG test accurately determines the cause of stenosis back pain. As a result, low back pain is less likely to be misdiagnosed, as are other common neuromuscular conditions with similar symptoms. Back surgery undertaken to cure misdiagnosed stenosis back pain can be avoided with this stenosis back pain test.
Tests done in the U of M study by Dr. Andrew Haig and his colleagues showed a substantial difference between those who have spinal stenosis and those with other types of back pain. It showed that use of the EMG allows experts to clearly distinguish between spinal stenosis and low back pain.
“Most doctors think of EMG as a simple test and incorrectly believe that it is sensitive for nerve damage, but cannot differentiate spinal stenosis form neuromuscular disease,” explains Haig. “But as this study shows, that’s not the case. In fact, EMG is an excellent test for spinal stenosis and other neuromuscular disorders using strict evidence-based criteria.” (Spine, Vol. 30, No. 23)
Anna Hart
http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/stenosis-back-pain-test-122606.html
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How To Diagnose Lower Back Pain
Lower Back Pain is a common affliction, with millions each year visiting physicians for relief. Not only will they seek relief, they will want a diagnosis.
It is not always easy to diagnose lower Back pain. Many body structures can cause it. There are muscles, ligaments, and tendons; spinal column bones; joints, discs and nerves. In addition to these structures, there may be underlying medical conditions your physician needs to evaluate.
Whether you initially diagnose lower back pain yourself, or leave that to your physician, the diagnosis will need to consider both the location and symptoms of your pain.
Step 1 – Location
The first step is to decide the location. “Where does it hurt?”
1. Axial lower back pain: This lower back pain hurts only in the low back. Pain does not travel into any other area.
2. Radicular lower back pain: This lower back pain hurts in the low back, and also radiates down the backs of the thighs into one or both legs.
3. Lower back pain with referred pain: Diagnose lower back pain with referred pain if it hurts in the low back area, and tends to radiate into the groin, buttocks, and upper thighs. The pain will rarely radiate below the knee, but may seem to move around.
Step 2 – Symptoms
Once you diagnose lower back pain as to location, you will consider symptoms. “How does it feel?”
1. Worsens with certain activities: If you play football, for example, the pain is worse.
2. Worsens in certain positions: Perhaps it gets worse if you stand for too long. Or it is more painful after you sit in a car.
3. Feels better after rest: Resting from the activity or position usually reduces the lower back pain.
4. Deep and steady: Not a sharp muscle catch, this pain is constant and deep within the affected areas.
5. Severe: The pain is excruciating, possibly more so in the calf than the lower back.
6. Numbness and tingling: There may be “pins and needles” within the area.
7. Fleeting pain: Pain may seem to come and go, leaving you unsure at times just how it feels.
8. Achy and dull: Like the flu, this pain is sore and dull, though sometimes intensifying.
9. Migratory: It hurts in one spot, then another.
Diagnosis
AXIAL: If location is best described by number 1 above, and symptoms are a combination of 1, 2, and 3, you can probably diagnose lower back pain as being axial – the most common type. This is also called “mechanical” lower back pain. A variety of back structures can cause axial lower back pain, and it is difficult to identify which is the cause. Axial pain gets better on its own, and about 90% of patients recover within six weeks.
RADICULAR: If location is best described by number 2 above, and symptoms are a combination of 4, 5, and 6, you can probably diagnose lower back pain as being radicular – commonly called sciatica. This lower back pain is caused by compression of a lower spinal nerve, usually the sciatica nerve that runs from the spinal column, down the back of the thighs to the feet. Doctors usually recommend conservative treatment such as physical therapy exercises, medications, and possibly spinal injections, for six to eight weeks.
REFERRED: If location is best described by number 3 above, and symptoms are a combination of 7, 8, and 9, you can probably diagnose your pain as being lower back pain with referred pain – the least common type. This lower back pain is treated the same as axial back pain and frequently goes away as the problem resolves on its own.
How do you diagnose lower back pain?
Diagnose lower back pain with care. You need an accurate diagnosis, which your physician can best make, to be sure no underlying causes need attention. It is not enough to know you have sciatica. You need to know the underlying cause of the sciatica to determine treatment options.
If you do diagnose lower back pain, check the diagnosis with your physician.
Anna Hart
http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/how-to-diagnose-lower-back-pain-115645.html
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What Are The Causes Of Pain In Lower Right Back?
Back pain is a complaint doctors hear about frequently. People want information on backaches. They want doctors to treat pain in the back. Many want to know the Causes of pain in the lower right back.
Information about the Lower Right Back
It is important to understand the structure of the lower right back if we are to understand what Causes pain there.
Your back, with its spinal column of vertebrae, connecting ligaments, tendons, large muscles, and nerves, is designed to be incredibly strong and flexible. Yet things can go wrong with this awesome structure.
* Muscles can be strained
* Ligaments can be torn
* Joints can be injured
* Bones can be fractured
* Nerves can be irritated
* Discs can be herniated
* Stress can tighten back structure
The lower back seems especially susceptible to injury, since it bears the weight of the torso, and makes more movement than the upper back. Its constant work can cause parts to break down and wear out over the years.
The lower right back has soft tissues that can be involved in pain. Those large, complex muscle groups that support your spine and help you move can be strained by improper lifting or posture. In fact, muscle strain is the most common cause of lower back pain. Twisting or pulling one of the following muscles can produce pain in the lower right back.
* Extensor muscles: These paired muscles in the lower back and gluteus help support your spine. If the one on the lower right back is injured, it will be painful.
* Flexor muscles: Attached to the spine’s front, these muscles help you flex, bend forward, and lift things. Again, injury to the right flexor muscle can cause lower right back pain.
* Oblique muscles: This muscle group is attached to the sides of the spine. The oblique muscles help your spine rotate, and give you good posture.
In addition to simple muscle strain, injury to ligaments, joints, and bones can also cause muscle pain. If one of these structures is injured or inflamed, back muscles can go into spasm, drastically limiting your movement and cause pain in the lower right back.
Stress is a common cause of pain in the lower right back. Stress will make your back muscles tighten. This happens to every muscle in the body, as we move into a “fight or flight” response. Muscles that are tightened lack the energy they need to support the spine. If the stress is frequent, and measures are not taken immediately to relieve it, lower right back pain can easily develop.
Information on Chronic Lower Right Back Pain
If lower right back pain lasts more than two weeks, you are likely to stop using the aching muscles in order to protect yourself from that pain. With disuse, the muscles can waste (atrophy) and weaken. This will increase the pain, since your muscles are less able to support your spine. If you increase your protection, and continue to avoid using the muscles, the cycle will continue, with the pain worsening at each turn. Chronic lower right back pain will result. This is why doctors urge patients with lower right back pain to exercise daily.
Information about Lower Right Back Pain Symptoms
You need to understand the symptoms of your pain as well. It is difficult to treat pain without knowing clearly what and where the symptoms are. You will want to gain a sense of exactly where your lower right back hurts. Is the pain focused in one small area, or does it spread throughout the lower right back? Is it confined to the lower right back or does it radiate into other parts of the body? Here are two major kinds of pain in the lower right back.
Lower Right Back Pain Symptom #1
Is yours a deep, aching, dull, or burning pain? Does it travel down your leg? If so, your lower right back pain may be chronic back pain.
Lower Right Back Pain Symptom #2
Perhaps yours is a very sharp pain, deep in the lower right back. This symptom may be the result of a back injury.
Information on Relieving Lower Right Back Pain
My personal physician assures me that the best relief for lower right back pain is usually exercise. Gentle exercises, performed daily with warm-up and cool-down, will strengthen the core muscles around the lower back area, relieving the pain and making them less susceptible to future injury.
CAUTION: Pain in the lower right back may also be caused by kidney stones or other non-muscular problems. Be sure to ask your health care provider for advice on any back pain.
Anna Hart
http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/what-are-the-Causes-of-pain-in-lower-right-back-117782.html
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