Spine Health Guide

Your spine is an incredible structure that provides support and flexibility to your body. It keeps everything from your neck to your lower back aligned and protects the spinal cord, which is crucial for your nervous system. A healthy spine is essential for overall well-being, but it’s often taken for granted until pain or mobility issues arise. The Intent Medical Group team offers specialized services to address various spine health concerns.

Common Spine Conditions

• Scoliosis – An abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, often diagnosed in childhood and potentially worsening without treatment.
• Spinal Stenosis – A condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves and spinal cord, typically affecting those over 60.
• Degenerative Disc Disease – A common disorder where the discs between vertebrae deteriorate over time, usually affecting those over 40.
• Kyphosis – An abnormal forward curvature of the spine, most common in children and teens, often due to poor posture.
• Herniated Disc – This occurs when a disc’s soft center pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. It can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.
• Sciatica – Characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg.

Symptoms of Spine Disorders

• Pain in the back, neck, or shoulders
• Stiffness in the spine
• Reduced range of motion
• Weakness or numbness in the extremities
• Pain radiating down the leg (sciatica)
• Muscle spasms

Diagnosing Spine Conditions

• Physical Exam – Checking for tenderness and range of motion.
• Neurological Exam – Testing muscle strength and reflexes.
• Imaging – X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to identify structural abnormalities.
• Electromyography (EMG) – Measuring the electrical activity of muscles to diagnose conditions affecting the muscles and nerves.

Causes of Spine Conditions

• Age – Natural wear and tear over time.
• Birth Defects – Improper development during pregnancy and early life.
• Secondary Conditions – Resulting from other health issues like muscular dystrophy.
• Injury – Trauma from accidents or sports.
• Poor Posture – Leading to weak muscles or deformities.
• Genetics – Family history can increase risk.
• Lifestyle Factors – Obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity can contribute to spine problems.

Treatment Options

• Medications – Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Physical Therapy – Exercises to strengthen the spine and improve flexibility.
• Injections – Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
• Surgery – Procedures to correct structural issues or relieve pressure on nerves.
• Chiropractic Care – Non-surgical treatment that includes spinal manipulation and other manual therapies.
• Alternative Therapies – Acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga can help manage symptoms.

Preventing Spine Disorders

• Maintain Good Posture – Ensure proper alignment of the spine while sitting, standing, and lifting.
• Regular Exercise – Strengthen the muscles that support the spine through core and flexibility exercises.
• Healthy Weight – Keep a healthy weight to reduce stress on the spine.
• Quit Smoking – Smoking can accelerate the degeneration of spinal discs.
• Ergonomic Adjustments – Use ergonomic furniture and tools at work and home to support spine health.

Our Approach

Intent Medical Group uses the latest technologies and techniques to provide personalized spine care. Our comprehensive services include:

• Diagnosis and Treatment Plans – Tailored to each patients unique needs.
• Recovery and Rehabilitation – Helping patients regain strength and mobility.
• Preventative Care – Offering advice on maintaining a healthy spine and early detection of potential issues.
  

Contact Us

We are dedicated to providing compassionate, quality, patient-centered care, for your spine health.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our team at Endeavor Health Advanced Neurosciences Center. Our team is here to support you on your journey to better spine health.