The Spinal Column
The spinal column is the structure that supports your body from your head to your pelvis. It consists of a series of blocks of bone, separated from each other by a “disc” (sometimes referred to as a jelly donut or shock absorber). The complex interaction between the blocks of bone and disc allow a SPECIFIC amount of movement between every vertebra.
The spinal cord and peripheral nerves are located within the bony part of the spinal column. The complex interaction between the spinal column, and the spinal cord is the key to understanding your symptoms.
The spinal cord and peripheral nerves are located within the bony part of the spinal column. The complex interaction between the spinal column, and the spinal cord is the key to understanding your symptoms.
Signs and symptoms of spinal disease
Understanding spinal symptoms can be quite complex. However, a simple pathophysiology (abnormalities) lesson can be very helpful.
Spinal pathology refers to the abnormality causing spine problems. Any pathology that causes pressure on the spinal cord or nerves may result in symptoms, namely:
• Pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness, or
• Abnormalities in your ability to use your hands, legs, bladder or bowels.
Spinal pathology refers to the abnormality causing spine problems. Any pathology that causes pressure on the spinal cord or nerves may result in symptoms, namely:
• Pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness, or
• Abnormalities in your ability to use your hands, legs, bladder or bowels.
Modalities for the proper diagnosis of your spinal problem
Dynamic X-rays: Help to appreciate the weight of gravity on your spine. They also help to determine the amount of movement at different levels throughout the spine.
MRI: Are great for looking a soft tissue. Help to diagnose disc herniations, spinal cord compression, nerve root compression, thickening of soft tissue, etc.
CT: Are great for looking at bony anatomy. Help to diagnose fractures, bony growths (osteophytes), instability, etc.
MRI: Are great for looking a soft tissue. Help to diagnose disc herniations, spinal cord compression, nerve root compression, thickening of soft tissue, etc.
CT: Are great for looking at bony anatomy. Help to diagnose fractures, bony growths (osteophytes), instability, etc.