Our Specialties Include

• Spinal and Orthopaedic Surgery
• Brain / Neurosurgery
• Intracranial Disease Alternatives
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
• Pain Management Services
• Joint Replacement
• Gender Knee Replacements
• Artificial Disc Replacement
• Kyphoplasty
• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Programs
• Sports Medicine Specialists

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Common Causes of Back Pain

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

Degenerative disc disease is not truly a disease. It’s a term used to describe the gradual deterioration of intervertebral discs that may occur naturally with the aging process or as a result of injury.

• Loss of hydration in the disc can shrink the disc and compromise its ability to act as a shock absorber between each vertebra
• Loss of disc height can place pressure on the nerve roots causing pain in the buttocks and legs
• Ruptured discs can bulge and put pressure on nerves causing leg and back pain

Common symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease:

• Low back pain
• Pain in legs and/or buttocks
• Pain may increase while sitting or standing for extended time
• Pain may decrease while walking, or laying down

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward in relation to an adjacent vertebra. The symptoms that accompany spondylolisthesis include pain in the low back, thighs and/or legs, muscle spasms, weakness, and/or tight hamstring muscles.

• Many people affected experience no pain or symptoms
• May result from improper lifting of heavy items, weightlifting, or high impact sports, such as football or gymnastics

Common Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis

• Low back pain
• Swayback, or inward curve at the lower back (lordosis)
• Pain and/or weakness in legs
• Tightness in the hamstrings
• Symptoms become worse with exercise

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the canal that surrounds the spinal cord. The enlargement of joints, arthritis, bone spurs or the calcification of ligaments in the spine can cause spinal stenosis. As the canal narrows, pressure may be placed on nerves causing pain and/or numbness felt in the back and legs.

• A degenerative condition that is most common in older adults
• Years of wear-and-tear contribute to the condition
• It is possible to be born with spinal stenosis

Common Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

• Low back pain
• Weakness, tingling, numbness or pain in legs
• Standing or walking brings on symptoms
• Rest may reduce symptoms
• Leaning forward often relieves symptoms

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