The spinal column is made up of vertebrae or bones, and in between each vertebra is a pillow-like disc that serves as a cushion and shock absorber. Vertebral discs have a tough outer layer, and in the center is the nucleus. Wear and tear disease can cause the discs to degenerate and push the nucleus…
Spine Academy
What Is Spina Bifida?
Spina bifida is a neural tube defect that forms in a baby’s spinal area during pregnancy. It is usually due to the spinal column and spinal cord not aligning correctly together. The neural tube is what becomes the infant’s brain and spinal cord, and their protective structures. Babies with spina bifida have an underdeveloped neural…
Secondary Issues from Spinal Problems
For people with spinal cord problems, they may suffer from severe back pain as well as a host of secondary issues. Chronic back pain is one of the leading causes of disability in the United States today. When a person has an issue in the spine, it can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in other…
Degenerative Changes in the Spine
As people age, the joints, bones, ligaments, and other structures in the body can wear out from overuse. One body part that seems to wear out most noticeably for many people is the back. The spine is always in use throughout our lives – whether we’re standing, walking, running, sitting, or even just lying down…
Five Things to Do to Protect Your Spine from Injury
More than any other part of the body in the human musculoskeletal system, your spine is extremely important. Your spine is the main support of the body, and a determining factor of your overall health and well-being. Its anatomy facilitates movement and support of your head, back, ribcage, and limbs. It serves as a conduit…
Thoracic vs Lumbar Spine Pain
When it comes to different types of pain, chronic back pain is one of the most commonly diagnosed type of pain. Research states that 80 percent of people will have back problems at some point in their lives, the most common being low back pain, which is noted as being a main cause of disability…
Ice or Heat for Your Chronic Neck Pain
Should I use ice or heat for neck pain? This is a question commonly asked by many patients during consultations, when they need pain relief for treating pain in their neck, shoulders, or back. To be truthful, the answer is both. However, having a better understanding about each treatment is needed before trying anything for…