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Spine

The spine is made up of 24 vertebrae, each separated by discs. It is categorised into three sections, including the neck (cervical spine), the mid-back (thoracic spine) and the lower back (lumbar spine). These discs connect the vertebrae, absorb shocks as well as facilitate spinal multi-directional movement.

The spine’s primary functions include:

  • Safeguarding the spinal cord and its nerve roots, which power the whole body
  • Giving structural support and balance for maintaining an upright stance
  • Allowing flexible movement

Various conditions and injuries are likely to occur in the spine, potentially harming the vertebrae, causing pain and restricting movement.

Our team of neurosurgeons, orthopaedic surgeons, pain specialists, physiatrists, psychologists, and other experts have vast experience in managing even the most intricate spinal issues. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that is aimed at reducing pain and enhancing their quality of life.

Types of Spine Disorders

Various conditions can affect the spine, ranging from the neck to the lower back. Among the disorders we address include:

Degenerative spine and disc conditions:

  • Arthritis
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Herniated disc
  • Spondylosis

Additional spine conditions involve:

  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Back pain
  • Chronic spine and back pain
  • Basilar invagination, basilar impression, and cranial settling
  • Kyphosis
  • Neck pain
  • Myelopathy
  • Osteoporosis and vertebral fractures
  • Radiculopathy
  • Scoliosis
  • Scheuermann’s kyphosis
  • Spinal cord cancer
  • Spinal deformities
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Spinal tumours
  • Spinal fractures
  • Spondylolisthesis

Symptoms of Spine Disorders

The signs and symptoms vary based on the specific spine condition and may affect different body areas, depending on the location of the affected spine or spinal cord. Some of the common symptoms are:

  • Rounded shoulders or an abnormally curved back
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction
  • Neck or back pain that may be sharp, aching, dull, or burning
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Radiating pain in the arms or legs
  • Stiffness or tightness in the back or neck
  • Uneven posture, like one shoulder or hip appearing higher compared to the other
  • Weakness, tingling, or numbness in the arms or legs

Causes of Spine Disorders

The causes of spine disorders vary depending on the condition; in some cases, they remain unknown. The most common causes are:

  • Accidents or falls
  • Inflammation
  • Congenital conditions present at birth
  • Infection
  • Injuries that range from mild to severe
  • Genetic disorders
  • Age-related degenerative changes

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing a spine disorder, such as:

  • Obesity or too much weight
  • Wrong lifting techniques
  • Underlying conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or thyroid disease
  • Lifestyle and nutrition choices, including a low calcium consumption, sedentary lifestyle, or smoking
  • Overuse from exercise or repetitive work-related movements
  • Poor posture
  • Frequent engagement in strenuous activities

Diagnosis of Spine Disorders

Our spine specialists perform a comprehensive evaluation that includes:

  • A physical examination
  • Review of personal and family medical history
  • Discussion of your symptoms as well as risk factors
  • A neurological assessment if a nerve-related issue is suspected

Diagnostic tests:

According to the patient’s condition, we may suggest one or more of the following tests:

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Uses radio waves and a powerful magnet to generate detailed spine images. It helps detect soft tissue issues like muscle, tendon, ligament, spinal cord, or nerve disorders.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan: Combines X-rays, sometimes with contrast, to create detailed cross-sectional spine images. This procedure is useful for bone injuries and abnormalities.
  • X-ray: Captures images of the neck or back to assess injuries, fractures, or chronic bone conditions.
  • Biopsy: In case cancer is suspected, a neurosurgeon extracts a small tissue sample for microscopic examination.
  • Electromyography (EMG): Measures the electrical activity of muscles and nerves to evaluate how different body parts respond to stimuli.

Treatment

Depending on the spinal injury or disorder, one or more of the following treatments may be recommended:

  • Back bracing
  • Cancer treatment, which includes surgery to take out tumours, radiosurgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
  • Ice or heat therapy to address injuries
  • Injections including corticosteroids or nerve blocks can relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
  • Medications. Options include pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants.
  • Rehabilitation. Physical therapy strengthens and stretches back and abdominal muscles in order to improve mobility and function.
  • Surgical interventions. May involve disc replacement, vertebral fusion, spinal canal decompression or nerve repair.

Bottom Line

Spine disorders can significantly impact daily life, but many patients experience relief and improved mobility with the right diagnosis and treatment. Our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to providing personalised care using the latest advancements in spinal treatment.

Schedule a consultation today to explore your treatment options and take the first step toward a healthier spine.