If you’ve ever had an MRI of your spine, you may have heard the term “high-intensity zone” mentioned in reference to the results. But what exactly are high-intensity zones in your back, and how might they relate to the treatment […]
The human spine is just that—human. In other words, it’s subject to the effects of age, just like every other part of the body. You might be familiar with some of the age-related issues that can take a toll on […]
Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine that can produce a backbone with a “C” or “S” shape. If you’re among the 2–3 percent of the population affected by this condition, you may have idiopathic scoliosis, the most […]
The spine is one of the parts of the body most commonly affected by arthritis, a progressive condition that contributes to inflammation and joint, bone, and soft tissue damage. You can’t reverse damage already caused by spinal arthritis (osteoarthritis), but […]
Any type of spinal narrowing can be problematic and potentially painful, especially if nearby nerve roots are compressed. If you have foraminal stenosis—which sometimes happens because of age-related changes or sudden (acute) trauma—nerves essentially become trapped in the foramen, which […]
Spinal discs are designed to consistently support the bones of the spine and keep the backbone at its normal height. However, if the tougher outer wall of a disc breaks down, the disc can lose height. When this happens, you […]
When spinal spaces narrow in certain areas, such as the backbone and supporting nerves, it’s referred to as spinal stenosis. Often affecting the lower back and neck, the condition can be a source of localized pain or discomfort felt in […]
Spinal discs are designed to be spongy enough to cushion the backbone yet strong enough to endure the burden of daily movements. Still, these discs can be damaged by age-related wear or injury to the point where inner disc material […]
Narrowing of the spinal canal, known as spinal stenosis, tends to progress over time, which is why some people who have had this condition with little or no discomfort for many years sometimes begin to develop disruptive symptoms later in […]