Types of Spinal Fractures

Types of Spinal Fractures

Fractures can occur anywhere along the spine. Five to ten percent occur in the cervical (neck) region. 64% occur in the thoracolumbar (thorax/lower back) region, often at T12-L1. Spinal fractures and dislocations can pinch, compress, and even tear the spinal cord....
Causes and Symptoms of Spinal Fractures

Causes and Symptoms of Spinal Fractures

Spinal fractures are caused by trauma or conditions that weaken the bones. Fractures can result from low or high energy trauma: •    A low energy fracture means it is the result of weakened bones, often due to osteoporosis, spine tumors or certain types of cancers....
What to Expect Before Your Spinal Procedure

What to Expect Before Your Spinal Procedure

Once you have decided to have spine surgery, there are a number of preparations that follow. Pre-Operative Evaluation During the physical exam before surgery you might expect a blood test, electrocardiogram (EKG), and chest X-ray. Your doctor will also discuss...
After Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery

After Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery

After a cervical disc replacement procedure, do everything you can to allow your body to heal in the best way possible. Keep the following checklist in mind. Pain Medication Tylenol may be recommended for pain. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen...
Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis

Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis

For most patients, the evaluation of spinal stenosis begins with a comprehensive physical and neurological examination followed by confirmatory imaging tests (An X-ray or MRI scan). The tests provide valuable information about the cause of your spinal stenosis and...
Causes and Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis

Causes and Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis

The exact cause of spondylolisthesis is unknown, although certain risk factors have been identified. Fractures When you fracture your spine, vertebrae are more likely to become unstable and slip onto the vertebrae below. Overuse The injury most often occurs in...