As we begin to age, our discs lose water thus causing Disc Degeneration.  Disc Degeneration is responsible for older individuals who say their “shrinking” as well, since the disc loses water capacity.  In our 20’s and 30’s our discs are ample and full of fluid; this is the most crucial time for discs to herniate.  A disc herniation is when the inner nucleus pulposus travels beyond its normal barriers of the outer fibrotic ring.  This can happen from trauma or repetitive movements.  There are different types of disc herniations such as: extrusions, protrusions, sequestrations, contained, and non-contained.  Disc herniations can put added pressure on spinal nerves therefore causing pain.  However, some disc herniations put pressure on the spinal cord, a very dangerous situation that must be corrected via spinal surgery.  If left untreated, pressure on the spinal cord could lead to paralysis and devastating motor and sensory deficits. 

Chiropractic treatment

Chiropractors are skillfully trained in the nervous system.  The nervous system is the most important organ system and it controls and coordinates every organ system and body part in the entire human body.  Chiropractors carefully use static and kinetic palpation to locate areas of subluxation, or mis-alignment in the spine and/or extremities. After physical examination of the involved complaint, the doctor will take x-rays if deemed necessary.  With suspicions of a disc herniation, the Chiropractor will send out for an MRI of the spine.  This will determine a diagnosis as well as the severity and exact site of the disc herniation.  When the herniation is deemed a contained, mild to moderate disc herniation by the physician reading the MRI report, conservative treatment may begin.  Chiropractors use a few different techniques to treat disc herniations: they adjust above or below the level of the disc herniation, the use a specific technique called Cox Flexion/Distraction, and the use spinal decompression.  Cox Flexion/ Distraction technique opens up the facet joints of the vertebra allowing the nucleus pulposus to re-enter its proper location.  This takes pressure of the spinal nerve roots, reduces pain and inflammation, and replenishes the disc with blood and nutrients.  Spinal decompression ultimately works the same way; however, a machine does the work after the physician enters in the proper protocol.  When the disc herniation is deemed severe and/or non-contained, surgical intervention is the best route.   

About Spinal Decompression Therapy 

People suffering from a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, and face joint syndrome should consider spinal decompression therapy.  Patients can avoid back surgery if they choose to receive this chiropractic treatment.  Back surgery is often a painful experience and has many risks and complications.  It is best to avoid surgery if possible.  This type of treatment has been a breakthrough in the medical world because of its effective results and long term pain relief.  Spinal decompression therapy works by gently massaging and stretching the spine, removing strain off the discs and vertebra.  You should consider spinal decompression treatment if you are dependant on medications to relieve pain, limited to daily activities, received epidurals but don’t feel any pain relief, and/or considering surgery. 

Decompression Machine

The DRX 9000, a spinal decompression machine, is the most widely used treatment option in theU.S.  This specific machine focuses on relieving chronic pain caused by bulging and herniated discs.  During treatment, the machine will stretch segments of the spine to relieve tension on the affected nerves.  It will also help to properly align the spine.  Once the spine is realigned it improves the body’s range of motion.  Once the range of motion has improved, pain decreases because there is less pressure on the spine and joints.  The DRX9000 allows the vertebrae and damaged spinal discs a chance to heal because it frees up space between the two.  The machine includes a table that uses rollers and motors to adjust the spinal column at precise locations within the spine.  Tests preformed by the manufactures show an 88% success rate once treatment has been completed.  This machine also gives an alternative option to back surgery which leaves many patients with complications and problems in the long run.    

Costs

Spinal Decompression Therapy costs can range between $2000 – $6000 dollars, depending on where you go.  Also, it depends on what your insurance agrees to cover, this also varies person-to-person.  This amount of money may seem expensive, but when you consider all the other factors, it is relatively inexpensive.  If you considered having back surgery you would have to pay for the hospital and therapy costs and not to mention all the time off work you would have to take.  With spinal decompression treatment, you will not miss a day of work and you won’t have to cover hospital bills.  In addition, the risks of back surgery are very high and could cause complications.  The Journal of American Medical Association says there is no proof that surgery is more effective than non-invasive methods for patients with herniated discs and back pain.

Spondylolisthesis is a condition wherein one of your vertebrae suffers a stress fracture or a small break in the bone due to excessive stress over an extended period. Spondylolysis usually occurs in the 5th lumbar vertebra in the lower back causing the bone to weaken and unable to remain in its proper position. When this happens, the vertebrae will begin to slip out of place. This condition is known as spondylolisthesis.

Lumbar Spondylolisthesis

Lumbar spondylolisthesis is a term relatively used for Spondylolisthesis. It is because spondylolisthesis commonly occurs in the lumbar area.

Definition of Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis comes from the root word “spondylo” means “vertebra” and “listhesis” means “to slip” hence, to define it simply, it means “slipping of one spinal vertebra over the one immediately underneath it”.  A related condition called spondylolysis,  is a precursor for some types of spondylolisthesis.  Spondylolisthesis can be caused by:

• A birth defect
• Fractures
• Degeneration due to age or overuse
• Tumors or cancer of the spine
• A major accident or trauma
• Underlying diseases such as arthritis or osteoporosis
• Surgery

One of the vital roles of our spine or vertebral column is to give us body structure and support. Without our spine, we could not keep ourselves upright, move about freely or bend with flexibility. It is also designed to protect our spinal cord, a column of nerves that connects our brain to the rest of your body in order to control our movements. Extending from the base of the skull to the pelvis, the vertebral column is composed of a series of 33 separate bones consisting of:
7 cervical vertebrae
12 thoracic vertebrae
5 lumbar vertebrae
Sacrum, which is a fusion of 5 vertebrae
Coccyx or tail bone, which is a fusion of 4 vertebrae

In Spondylolisthesis, vertebrae displacement can be a single vertebra or the whole vertebral column. There are 5 major types of Spondolylolithesis as categorized by the Wiltse classification system. These are:

• Dysplatic or Congenital
• Isthmic, Denegrative
• Traumatic
• Pathological
• Iatrogenic

Spondylolysis is a defect or fracture in the pars interarticularis. The pars interarticularis is a portion of the lumbar spine which joins together the upper and lower joints. If the pars ‘cracks’ or is fractured, the condition is called spondylolysis. Spondylolysis is actually a condition which occurs before Spondylolisthesis.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a chronic inflammation of the spine and the sacroiliac joint, the point where the spine meets the pelvic bone.

Severity of the slippage  is divided into 5 grades as classified by the Meyerding grading system  namely:
Grade 1 is 0-25%
Grade 2 is 25-50%
Grade 3 is 50-75%
Grade 4 is 75-100%, and
Grade 5 is over 100% (vertebra completely dislocates from the supporting vertebra)

Grade 1 Spondylolisthesis

Grade 1 spondylolisthesis can happen at any age or as a result of injury but usually arises gradually in older adults. When the spinal discs undergo wear and tear, it becomes dried out and compressed. This compression of the spine causes the vertebrae to overlap one another. As a result, the disc itself may protrude into the spinal canal, pinching nerves which can be very painful. A slipped disc can also put pressure on adjacent nerve roots, causing numbness, tingling  and weakness in the extremities.

There are different types of Spondolylolithesis. Among them are:
Type I or Dysplastic or congenital spondylolisthesis.  It is caused by agenesis of the superior articular facet. It is a congenital defect in the articular processes of the vertebra. It usually happens in the area where the lumbar spine and the sacrum come together, or the L5-S1 area. The defect allows the L5 vertebra, your last vertebra in your lumbar spine, to slip forward over the sacrum.

Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

Type II or Isthmic (Spondylolytic) is caused by pars interarticularis defects. Isthmic spondylolisthesis is the most common type of spondylolisthesis and is acquired through stresses on the body over a period of time.  With type II, there’s a problem with the pars interarticularis, a particular region of your vertebra. Isthmic spondylolisthesis is divided further into 3 types classified according to the fractures on the pars interarticularis.
>Type II A or lytic spondylolisthesis- occurs because of hyperextension, overarching, and overuse. Here, the pars fractures completely. This defect is associated with developmental anomalies that usually occurs by age 6 years  such as lumbarization, sacralization, and spina bifida occulta.
>Type II B - pars don’t fracture completely. Instead, new bones grow as the pars heals, causing it to stretch. A longer pars can then cause the vertebra to slide forward.
>Type II C - this type is a rare form which results from an acute fracture of the pars interarticularis during significant trauma.

Degenerative Spondolylolithesis

Type III or Degenerative Spondolylolithesis
This type of spondolylolithesis usually happens at the L4-L5 region (the fourth and fifth vertebrae in your low back), and it’s more common in women over 50 and is caused by aging and articular degeneration. As you grow older, parts of your spine degenerates and can wear out so that there is less water and proteoglycan content on the vertebral discs. Less disc fluid makes the spine less able to handle movement and shock, bringing the facet joints closer together. In time, a vertebra can slip forward because the facets aren’t holding it in place effectively. As a result, there is reduction in nerve blood flow because the nerves are compressed in the spinal canal causing a narrowing or ‘stenosis’. Symptoms are bilateral pain on the buttocks and legs.

In disc herniation, disc movement is prevented due to its rupturing or bulging in an outward angle in the posterior (rear) direction where the spinal cord and nerve roots reside.  Here, a very strong ligament called the anterior longitudinal ligament covers the front part of the spinal column prevents movement in that direction, causing pain.

Type IV or Traumatic Spondolylolithesis
It is caused by fracture or dislocation of the lumbar spine, not involving the pars.

Type V or Pathologic Spondolylolithesis
This type is caused by malignancy, infection, or other types of abnormal bone.

Type VI or Postsurgical (Iatrogenic)
This is caused by post surgical methods.

Spondylolisthesis Symptoms:

• Localized pain or tenderness in the back just above the pelvis
• Lower back pain
• Stiffness in the back
• Tight hamstrings
• Pain in the thighs and legs
• Pain in the buttocks
• Difficulty controlling bowel and bladder
• Protruding abdomen
• Walking resembles waddling movements

Spondolylolithesis Treatment

Treatment of Spondolylolithesis may vary widely depending on the type, severity and symptoms of the condition.  Treatment can be non-surgical and surgical. Conservative approach includes activity modification accompanied with bed rest to pharmacological intervention by the use of anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving medicines to physical therapy and chiropractic treatment.

Spondylolisthesis Surgery

For severe and rare cases of Spondolylolithesis, surgical treatment may be the last option. Surgical options include direct repair of the pars interarticularis, posterior fusion with or without instrumentation, interbody fusion or  laminectomy. Indications for spinal fusion are tumor, infection, fracture, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, and degenerative disk disease. Recovery from spinal fusion can take months. Improvement in symptoms begins during the early recovery period although physical therapy is needed to keep the fused bones in proper alignment to speed up healing.

Recommended Spondylolisthesis Exercises

It is essential to do stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles in the back and abdomen so they are able to support and stabilize the spine. Yoga is recommended because it strengthens and elongates muscles in the legs and back. Exercises that you should avoid if you are suffering from spondylolisthesis are heavy weightlifting, low-back straining exercise and leisure sports that requires twisting. Unhealthy posture also causes uneven weight distribution and can strain ligaments and muscles.

It is critical to learn everything you possibly can about Spondylolisthesis especially if your loved one has been diagnosed with this condition to help you make informed decisions about treatment.

The thoracic segment of the spine or the middle back, is an area commonly and negatively affected by improper body mechanics leading to strains and herniated discs, arthritis and osteoporosis. Generally, any pain felt throughout the middle back is related to strain and can typically be treated successfully through conservative care. Herniated discs in this region are also common and also, for the most part, successfully managed with conservative care. While middle back pain can be the result of any number of minor issues, it is important to seek treatment for the cause to be determined.

Treatment Options

Depending on what is causing middle back pain, treatment options may vary according to the length and severity of the discomfort. A chiropractic physician is an ideal practitioner for the treatment of thoracic pain and they will be able to diagnose the cause of the spinal problem. For the majority of patients suffering with herniated discs and muscle strains, a chiropractor can offer treatment options such as spinal manipulation, massage therapy, traction, ultrasound and electrical stimulation to help lessen any dysfunction associated with the pain. For patients suffering with osteoporosis and arthritis, chiropractic care can be an essential treatment tool for slowing the aging process of the joints and tissues, leading to prolonged physical activity and decreased discomfort for the patient.

References Cited in this Article

www.backzilla.com

www.backpaindetails.com

www.webmd.com

There is a nerve that runs from the forearm to the hand called the median nerve. When this nerve becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist, the condition is called carpel tunnel syndrome. This discomfort within the carpel tunnel can be felt in the wrist as well as into the hand and up into the entire arm. Aside from a pain sensation, numbness, tingling and weakness may also be felt. Carpel tunnel syndrome symptoms may begin slowly, starting with numbness and tingling into the hand, generally affecting the thumb, index and middle finger. During the night, many people sleep with bent wrists, therefore pain in the morning is more noticeable and they often feel the need to shake their hands to relieve the symptoms of tingling and discomfort. As the compression of the median nerve in the wrist worsens, a person may find it difficult to make a fist or apply a tight grasp to objects.

Around the Nerve

 There are several causes of carpel tunnel syndrome. Generally, the nerve itself does not cause the problem but other factors regarding the area around the nerve. For some people, genetics play a role and they are more prone to suffering from this condition due to a small carpel tunnel. It is unclear if improper repetitive motions can cause carpel tunnel syndrome, although they can lead to bursitis as well as tendonitis. It has been observed that women are three times more likely to suffer from carpel tunnel syndrome compared to men and typically this condition only occurs in the dominant hand of adults. It is recommended to seek medical advice if symptoms of carpel tunnel syndrome arise. Generally, a physician will advise rest of the affected wrist, a splint to prevent unwanted movement and ice therapy for any inflammation. Chiropractic care and massage therapy may be additional treatment options to help resolve the symptoms. Once the symptoms have dissipated, stretching and strengthening exercises may be recommended to help prevent future problems around the wrists and forearms.

References Cited in this Article

www.nih.gov

www.mayoclinic.com

www.medicinenet.com

Spinal stenosis is a condition that can occur in either the cervical or lumbar regions of the spine. There are two forms of spinal stenosis, central and lateral. Central spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the central canal where the spinal cord is housed. Lateral stenosis is a narrowing of the foramen where the nerve roots exit from the central spinal cord. In both cases, the narrowing can cause compression causing pain, tingling, numbness and weakness. Cervical stenosis can be the most dangerous as the compression involves the spinal cord directly, whereas in the lumbar region, the spinal cord is not present past approximately the level of L2. Lumbar stenosis can compress the nerve roots causing sciatica. Spinal treatment for stenosis, as with many other spinal dysfunctions, varies depending on the spinal level, severity of pain and the duration of pain.

Spinal Stenosis

 Typically, with patients experiencing mild to moderate discomfort due to stenosis, conservative treatment options work well. The care that is received will not cure spinal stenosis as the disease can be the result of either bone spurs in the canal or arthritis. The goal of conservative treatment is to maintain normal body movement in the area, to help slow the degenerative process and to strengthen the muscles around the spine for proper stability. Exercises for spinal stenosis may be advised and will be monitored closely by a conservative care physician. The treatment plan will be specific to the individual and their specific health care needs. It will be noted if exercise therapy has any positive effect on the patient. In some more severe cases, epidural injections may be required, although these work in about half of patients treated and are not advised as a long term treatment option. Many patients with severe stenosis may be advised to undergo spinal stenosis decompression surgery.

References Cited in this Article

www.spine-health.com

www.mayoclinic.com

Spondylolisthesis is a condition affecting the lower back where a vertebra slips forward or backward. This can cause spinal deformities and/or a narrowing of the spinal column. Aside from the congenital class (where a person is born with the condition), there are three main types of spondylolisthesis: Degenerative, Traumatic, and Pathological. Risk factors consist of a family history of back problems, exerting large forces to the lower spine (weight lifting), or regular hyperextension of the lower back (gymnastics). As implied, the traumatic version of spondylolisthesis is caused by trauma, such as a fall or motor vehicle accident. While this type cannot be prevented, the other two types can.

Prevention

Regular exercise, good nutrition, and chiropractic treatments are among the foremost in prevention of this condition. Studies have shown that fit individuals are much less susceptible to injury and illness than those who are overweight or obese. Additionally, chiropractors are able to take special precautions to further protect individuals by ensuring a healthy back and spine.

What is that Popping Noise?

During a spinal manipulation, a patient may feel a crack or hear a pop in their back.  Research shows that the popping noise is caused from small pockets of air in the tissue fluid that surround the joint.  The air pockets ‘pop’ when the joint tissue is stretched during a spinal adjustment.  The procedure does not cause any serious pain, but the patient may experience sore or tight muscles after treatment.  After 2 to 3 more sessions, the patient will experience an improved range of motion in the spine and more movement in the lower back.  Pain will subside in the problem areas as sessions continue.  Many chiropractors will explain different exercises and techniques for bending to prevent pain from reoccurring.

Why Spinal Manipulation?

Chiropractic spinal adjustments have proven to be safe and effective for treating lower back pain. Patients can look to chiropractic treatment as a natural method of healing as opposed to prescription drugs or surgery.  The chiropractor will apply force with his or her hands to the subluxed part of the spine.  The manipulation will correct vertebral subluxations and decrease pain, inflammation, muscle spasms, and tension. 

It’s Built-In

The natural cervical curve of the spine or “cervical lordosis” has several functions. First and foremost it allows the atlas and axis (two topmost vertebrae) of the spine to support the head properly, as the skull rests on the two vertebrae. Secondly, its innate structure allows for shock absorption from normal movement of the body. The last operation that cervical lordosis performs is providing the greatest possible degree and positioning for the spinal cord to pass through the spinal column. With all these responsibilities, it is easy to see why maintaining cervical lordosis is critical to ones overall health.

Things That Adversely Affect Cervical Lordosis

Daily activity, genetics, and posture all play into a person’s cervical lordosis. If those three are bad, lordotic straightening (or “straight neck”) can occur. When this happens, the person loses the natural lordotic curvature of the cervical spine. This can range from a very mild onset to severe. As one could imagine, the symptoms that would ensue can include pain, loss of rage of motion, stiff neck, and instability of the spinal cord in the most severe cases. If you are concerned about the possibility of having this condition, get checked out by a chiropractor. Not only will they be able to determine if the condition exists, but you can receive immediate treatment for it if it does.

Chiropractics

To some people, the two may not seem to correlate well: chiropractics and children. However, shed in the light of pregnancy, the relation is much closer. Chiropractics during pregnancy aid the mother by limiting lower back pain which is very common, as well as  helping to curb the symptoms of nausea or “morning sickness.” Another unexpected boon to having regular chiropractic treatments during one’s pregnancy is a lower time spent in labor. For mothers expecting their first child, the time spent in labor was almost 25% less. For mothers who had previously given birth, the time dropped by an average of 33%.

Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage is also a great step for expecting mothers. Among a reduction in stress levels and receiving better sleep, studies show that women who receive prenatal massage, experience less pain and swelling, and are better at regulating their hormones. Mothers who underwent  prenatal massage saw a drop in cortisol and other stress-related hormones. Moreover, these same women saw a rise in dopamine and serotonin levels. When compiled, these benefits are strongly suggestive of an overall healthier pregnancy which ultimately ends up benefiting the newborn.