Understanding Spine Conditions
The spine is made up of 33 vertebrae that protect the spinal cord and provide structural support for the entire body. Spine conditions can cause pain, numbness, weakness, and reduced mobility, ranging from mild muscle strains to complex nerve compression and degenerative disease. At Precision Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, our spine surgeons and interventional pain management physicians serve patients across Maryland and the DC Metro Area, providing comprehensive care from epidural injections and nerve blocks to minimally invasive spine surgery.
Symptoms, Conditions & Treatment
Some common symptoms of spine conditions include back or neck pain that persists more than two weeks, pain that radiates into the arm or leg, and numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. Other symptoms to watch for include:
- Back or neck pain lasting more than two weeks
- Pain that radiates into the arm or leg
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Muscle weakness in the arms or legs
- Pain that worsens with sitting or bending
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (seek immediate care)
Some common conditions of the spine include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. Other conditions include:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Sciatica
- Facet joint arthritis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Radiculopathy
Some common treatment options for spine conditions include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and epidural steroid injections. Interventional and surgical options include:
- Physical therapy and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Epidural steroid injections
- Nerve blocks and radiofrequency ablation
- Spinal cord stimulation
- Microdiscectomy
- Spinal fusion and decompression
- Intrathecal pain pump
Frequently Asked Questions
- Spinal Fusion: Light activity at 4 to 6 weeks; full recovery 3 to 6 months; bone fusion solidifies over 12 months.
- Microdiscectomy: Return to desk work in 1 to 2 weeks; full activity at 4 to 6 weeks.
- Epidural Injection: Relief may begin within 2 to 7 days; effects can last weeks to months.
- Spinal Cord Stimulator: Trial period of 5 to 7 days; permanent implant recovery 1 to 2 weeks.
Our Spine Team
Our Clinics Where We Treat Spine Conditions