What is a lumbar strain?

A lumbar strain is a common injury that affects the lower back muscles and tendons. It occurs when these muscles or tendons are stretched or torn due to sudden or repetitive movements, lifting heavy objects improperly, or twisting the lower back in an awkward manner. Symptoms of a lumbar strain can include pain, stiffness, and […]

What is the difference between a lumbar strain and a sprain?

Sprains and strains are both injuries that can occur in the body’s soft tissues, but they affect different structures. A sprain is an injury to a ligament, which is a tough band of tissue that connects bones to each other at a joint. Sprains typically occur when a joint is forced beyond its normal range […]

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. Normally, the spine has a slight natural curve, but in people with scoliosis, the spine curves sideways in an S- or C-shaped pattern. Scoliosis can occur at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence. The cause of scoliosis is […]

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces within the spine become narrowed, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. The narrowing can occur in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine. Spinal stenosis is typically caused by degenerative changes in the spine that occur with aging, including […]

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a type of pain that affects the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back down through the hips and buttocks and into each leg. Sciatica pain typically occurs on one side of the body and can range from mild to severe. Sciatica […]

What is facet osteoarthritis?

Facet osteoarthritis, also known as facet joint arthritis or facet joint osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint condition that affects the facet joints of the spine. The facet joints are small joints located on either side of each vertebra that connect the bones of the spine and help to facilitate movement. Facet osteoarthritis occurs when the […]

What is a herniated disk?

A herniated disk, also known as a slipped or ruptured disk, is a condition that affects the rubbery disks that cushion the bones of the spine. These disks have a soft center called the nucleus pulposus and a tough outer layer called the annulus fibrosus. A herniated disk occurs when the nucleus pulposus bulges out […]

What is an annular tear?

An annular tear is a tear or rupture in the annulus fibrosus, which is the tough outer layer of a spinal disc. Spinal discs are the cushions between the vertebrae in the spine that help absorb shock and allow for movement. The annulus fibrosus is made up of strong fibers that hold the disc together […]