Common Back Disorders
Patients will oftentimes feel a tingly sensation in their backs. Sometimes, this tingly sensation could be just a random nerve signal or blood movement. At other times, it could be the start of something more serious, like lumbar stenosis, scoliosis, or failed back syndrome. Below is a description of each disorder, and what to do about it.
Lumbar stenosis is a serious condition that often accompanies aging. Striking mostly the elderly, lumbar stenosis is when the spinal canal narrows and pinches the spinal cord. This, in turn, obstructs some nervous signals, and can create lower back pain. It is believed that 12 percent of institutionalized men experience lumbar stenosis, including 21 percent of men in nursing home settings. While advanced age is the most common cause of lumbar stenosis, trauma can also cause the disorder.
Another common back ailment, like lumbar stenosis, is scoliosis. Scoliosis is when the spine follows an irregular path, and is not aligned properly. This can cause structural growth problems later on. In the past, those with scoliosis were forced to wear a brace. Now, scoliosis surgery all but corrects this.
One of the most severe back ailments is failed back syndrome. More severe than lumbar stenosis, failed back syndrome involves persistent back pain after spine surgery, even minimally invasive spine surgery. This disorder is characterized by herniated disc in neck and other areas, as well as symptoms akin to lumbar stenosis. It is considered chronic.
None of these back disorders are pleasant. What an individual can do, though, is visit a spine doctor for treatment. This spine doctor can recommend a variety of treatments, including spinal stenosis treatment, cervical spine surgery, and other surgeries as required.
Spine ailments like lumbar stenosis can be defeated. Working with the right spinal surgeon, it is possible to lead a healthy life, with minimum back pain. After all, less back pain means a greater quality of life.
