When most people think of spine issues, they usually relate them with back pain. However, since the bones in your spine protect the spinal cord, which sends nerve signals throughout your body, issues with your spine can lead to much more than just discomfort in the back.
Back injuries and other spine issues can lead to a variety of symptoms, including some you might not expect. If you are experiencing problems, consulting a spine specialist is an ideal choice.
What are the key indications of spinal issues?
Knowing when to reach out to a spine specialist is extremely important as spinal issues or back bone problems as there several causes for weak bones and can progress quickly and can impact daily life. Here are some of the major signs of spinal issues you need to look out for:
Numbness and weakness:
Tingling, weakness, or numbness in your hands, arms, feet, legs may point to an issue with your lower back spine. This is because the nerves that connect these areas to your brain pass through the spine and can become compressed along the way. You might also notice your leg giving up while walking or climbing stairs.
This could be caused by a herniated disc, a bone spur, or narrowing of the spinal canal, known as stenosis. While these issues might improve on their own, a spine specialist can help identify the root cause and recommend treatments to provide relief.
Constant pain in the neck and back:
Not all spinal issues cause pain at the site of the damage or injury, although a few can do. A slipped disc can result in pain or discomfort near the affected area. Osteoarthritis, which occurs when the protective cartilage around the bones wears away, can lead to back or neck pain if the bones in the spine begin to rub against each other.
Back and neck pain can come from more than just the bones of the spine, such as muscle and ligament strains. A spine specialist care can include physical therapy and may provide other treatment options for these issues.
Changes in the ability of hands and finger:
The vertebrae in your upper back and neck link your spine to your arms, hands, and fingers. Any changes in this area can impact your ability to perform tasks that involve your hands. Some people notice difficulty with buttons or zippers, and others may mention that their handwriting has changed.
Discomfort and pain that radiates:
Radiating pain is a key sign of nerve compression. It begins in one area, commonly the back, and moves along the specific nerve pathway. A common example is sciatica, where the pain starts in the lower back and travels down the legs.
While sciatica is a frequent cause of ongoing pain, it is not the only one. Depending on where the pain occurs, other conditions like cervical radiculopathy or any viral infections affecting the nerve can also cause discomfort. Reach out to the best ortho hospital in Coimbatore if you are experiencing any of the signs of bone issues.
Bladder and bowel control loss:
If you experience numbness or tingling in the groin area and have trouble using the bathroom usually, it could be a sign of cauda equina syndrome. This condition happens when the nerves at the bottom of the spinal column are compressed. While it’s rare, it is important to get medical attention immediately, especially if it’s a new issue.
What are the common conditions that affect the spinal cord?
Knowing about common spine conditions can help you identify when it’s time to seek professional help and gain bone support. Here are some conditions that usually require spine specialist care:
Herniated disc:
When the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer, it results in a herniated disc. This can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs and may require treatments such as physical therapy or even surgery.
Degenerative disc disease:
This disorder, which causes pain and restricted movement, is brought on by the slow degeneration of the spinal discs. Treatment options include lifestyle adjustments, physical therapy, and, in serious cases, surgery.
Sciatica:
Sciatica is marked by pain that travels along with the sciatica nerve, which extends from the lower back through the hips and down the legs. It is commonly caused by a herniated disc or bone spur pressing on the nerve.
Important Takeaway:
Identifying the signs of serious spine issues and getting prompt care from a specialist can greatly improve health outcomes. Ongoing pain, symptoms that spread, and difficulty moving are all signs that it’s time to see a spine expert. By learning about common spine conditions and their symptoms, you can take proactive steps. Consult a bone specialist in Coimbatore to get immediate care for your spinal bones and restore its health.