Cervical and Lumbar spine conditions
Causes
- Spondylosis: A natural result of aging that includes bone spurs, stiff ligaments, and herniated discs
- Arthritis: Causes joints to expand, which can put pressure on the spinal cord
- Falls, car crashes, or sports mishaps: Can cause spinal cord injuries
- Infection: Such as meningitis or osteomyelitis, a bacterial or fungal infection of the spine
- Tumors: Can compress the spinal cord
- Herniated discs: Can occur when the exterior of the spinal discs wear down and crack
- Bone spurs: Can occur when the body produces extra bone to stabilize the spine
- Obesity: Puts extra weight on the spine
- Poor muscle tone: Can lead to back pain
- Smoking: Has been linked to increased neck pain
Symptoms
- pain
- stiffness
- weakness
- numbness
- tingling
Treatment
- Physical therapy
- medication
- injections
- surgery
- rest