Kyphotic curves refer to the outward curve of the thoracic spine (at the level of the ribs). Lordotic curves refer to the inward curve of the lumbar spine (just above the buttocks). Scoliotic curving is a sideways […]
Degenerative spondylolisthesis is Latin for “slipped vertebral body”, and it is diagnosed when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it. This condition occurs as a consequence of the general aging process in which the bones, joints, and ligaments in the spine become weak and less able to hold […]
Sciatica is pain resulting from irritation of the sciatic nerve. The pain of sciatica is naturally felt from the low back to behind the thigh and radiating down to below the knee.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?
The main cause of sciatica is generally a result of a disc herniation directly pressing on […]
The most common golf injuries occur in the lower back, elbows, shoulders, hands and wrists, and are generally defined as either cumulative (overuse) or acute (traumatic) injuries. The impact and stress of the repetitive motion of the swing is sometimes hard on the muscles and joints, especially if you ignore the early warning signs of […]
Ankylosing spondylitis, also known as Bechterew’s disease or pelvospondylitis ossificans, mainly affects the sacroiliac joint, the joints between the vertebral arches and the anterior long ligament of the spine, which may gradually ossify. It usually afflicts young and middle-aged men and should be suspected in cases of chronic, but not severe, pain in the lumbar […]
A defect in the vertebral arch is called spondylolysis. The defect can be congenital, or may be caused by injury or overloading resulting in stress fracture. Spondylolysis creates the necessary conditions for one vertebra to be able to slip forwards in relation to the one below it. Once this has occurred the condition is called […]
In scoliosis, lateral curvature to the left or right of part of the spine renders the vertebral column S-shaped. The cause of this complaint, which affects growing children, is unknown. It is often discovered by the physical education teacher, coach, or parents, and should lead to a visit to the doctor.
Scheuermann’s disease is a hereditary condition which produces progressive rounding of the back (kyphosis) and can sometimes hinder sporting activity. The complaint mainly affects adolescent boys. Usually three to five thoracic vertebrae are involved, which become wedge-shaped.
Symptoms and diagnosis
– Slight fatigue in the thoracic region is present on exertion after the affected person […]