Get Relief From Neck & Back Pain

Degenerative disc disease refers to the changes in the spine that take place over time, which may lead to severe pain and other symptoms, as well as conditions such as osteoarthritis, herniated disc or spinal stenosis. As we age, our intervertebral discs lose fluid and become less flexible, and may bulge, herniated or thin.

Patients with degenerative disc disease often experience back and/or neck pain, that tends to worsen with activity. Pain may radiate through the arms or legs, and may be accompanied by numbness or tingling as well.

Treatment for this condition usually involves applying ice or heat to the affected area and taking anti-inflammatory medication to help relieve pain. Some patients may require more advanced treatment, especially when degenerative disc disease progresses to a more serious condition. Surgery may be performed to remove the damaged disc.

An intervertebral disc is located in between the bones (vertebrae) of the spine to provide cushioning support and flexibility within the spine. However, these discs may become damaged and may tear or move out of place. A herniated disc, also known as a ruptured or slipped disc, is a common condition that may occur as a result of gradual wear and tear on the disc or from an injury to the spine that cracks or tears the disc and causes it to bulge or break open.

Patients with a herniated disc may experience pain, numbness and weakness in the affected area as the disc presses on the nearby nerve roots, which may be worse during activity and then get better during rest. Anything that puts pressure on the nerve, such as coughing sneezing, sitting or bending forward, can cause pain to worsen. If the herniated disc does not touch any nerves, patients may not experience any pain from this condition.

Treatment for a herniated disc depends on the location and severity of the condition. Only the most severe cases will require surgery to treat a herniated disc. Surgery is usually reserved for patients whose pain does not improve over the course of a few months. Talk to your doctor about your surgical options if your pain does not seem to be getting better.

Whiplash is a common neck condition that occurs as a result of a sudden backwards-forwards motion of the head, often associated with car accidents, roller coasters or collisions during contact sports. This type of injury can stretch the muscles and ligaments as the neck moves out of its normal range of motion.

Patients with whiplash may experience:

• Neck pain
• Stiffness
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating

These symptoms may occur immediately after the injury or can develop several days later. Symptoms may vary depending on each individual patient and the severity of their injury.

Most patients recover from whiplash injuries within four to six weeks through the help of conservative treatments such as applying ice to the area and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. More severe cases of whiplash may require corticosteroid injections or the use of a cervical collar, which is worn for several hours during the day to immobilize the neck. Dr. Lager will decide which treatment is best for you after a thorough evaluation of your condition. Patients can reduce their risk of whiplash by using safety restraints at all times while in a car.

Scoliosis is a common childhood condition that involves an abnormal curvature of the spine. It may be present at birth or can develop later on, but the cause is unknown. Scoliosis affects about 2 to 4 percent of children between the ages of 10 and 16, and is more common in girls.

Mild cases of scoliosis may not cause any symptoms, but the condition can often be diagnosed through:

• Uneven shoulders, hips and waist
• Leaning to one side
• Prominent shoulder blade
• Fatigue

The condition can often be diagnosed simply through physical examination during a routine visit. More severe cases can cause back pain and difficulty breathing. Scoliosis can worsen during growth spurts, and is more likely to occur in young girls. The size and location of the curve may also be a risk factor for worsening.

Scoliosis does not usually worsen and can often be treated simply by regular doctor's appointments to monitor the condition. Worsening or severe cases may require treatment that can include a brace or spinal fusion surgery.

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