There are several causes of spinal instability, however, there are a few commonalities among the different conditions that result in the instability. Spinal instability is caused by degenerative changes to the discs, which are present both inside and outside the human body. The discs are made up of two rings of fibrous material that are extremely tough, however, wear over time. When they do so, the softer material on the inside becomes compressed and loses its structural integrity, which in turn results in the bulges and fractures we know of as spindles.
Recognize Symptoms
In order to prevent further spinal instability, one must learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of the condition and learn the different treatments for it. Spinal instability is often mistaken for a herniated disc, which, in actuality, is an osteoarthritic change to the spine. One of the easiest tests to determine whether or not one has facet joint pain, or degenerative disc disease, is to lie down and bend your knee at full extension. If you feel pain along the front of the knee, then there is a good chance that you have a facet joint problem. This is just one way to distinguish between the various types of disorders and diseases of the spine.
Spinal instability can also result in the development of more severe underlying problems and diseases, such as DMD (degenerative disc disease) and osteonecrosis. When the facet joints are removed, it leaves the facet and surrounding structures unaided. This leaves gaps that result in the leaky streams of nerve fibers, called axons, that provide the brain with communication and other functions. The existence of these leaks can result in the manifestation of various symptoms, which mimic those of a more severe neural deficiency disorder.
Spinal instability can also lead to a loss of total mobility of the joints. This is referred to as atrophy. Spinal atrophy is commonly accompanied by pain and numbness. Spinal fusion surgery can correct the stability of the spinal column and increase the amount of motion in the joint, but it cannot restore total mobility. Spinal instability is usually a symptom of other disorders or diseases, and is often difficult to diagnose on its own. Diagnosis is typically based on the clinical presentation, which consists of both the symptoms and the specific tests that are performed to evaluate them.
Microdiscectomy surgery
Onw way to treat spinal instability is through the use of microdiscectomy and spinal fusion. Microdiscectomy surgery involves the removal of the bones around a facet by means of an arthroscopic procedure. Spinal fusion occurs when the spinal bones are fused together to form a stronger piece of tissue. This procedure is used to replace a severely damaged vertebrae due to old age or disease.
Diagnostic Imaging Procedure
Patients who suffer from spinal instability should undergo diagnostic imaging procedures to determine the exact location of the instability, including a coronal structural scan to assess the degree of myelination and to pinpoint the precise site of degeneration and atrophy. Specialized transvaginal and intrauterine magnetic resonance imaging (T MRI and T ultrasounds) are used to visualize changes in bone density in the spine. Specific radiological procedures such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intravenous pyelogram (IVG) can also be used to get a more detailed picture of a patient's spinal structure. In IVG, a dye is injected into the blood, which then generates images of the kidneys, liver, spleen and pancreas using magnetic resonance technology. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment can be initiated to correct any deformity and/or stabilize the affected area(s).
Physiotherapy Treatment for Spinal Strain
Physiotherapy treatment is considered essential for all patients suffering from spinal instability, but this service can be quite expensive. You could also suffer from an inability to work or postpone your employment due to the ongoing condition of your spine. In such conditions, you should avail of any physiotherapy treatment available at Healthbound Health Network. This network of health professionals provides not only a wide variety of services, but also ensures that your physiotherapy treatment is top class.
The orthopedic physiotherapy services provided by this centre are ideal for patients with any kind of orthopedic problem. Even if you are suffering from muscle atrophy, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, cystitis, patellar tendonitis, or patellar malalignment, your physical therapy expert will be able to help you get better fast. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the damage caused by an accident, but in most cases, this treatment option is not necessary.
Many people in middle-aged and older age try to avoid treatment for their condition by postponing it for another time or by not taking it seriously. But, they should understand that early recovery is always possible, provided that you take care of your body and mind. You should always adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise, no matter what the current state of your health. With a little change in your lifestyle, you can surely lead a normal life free from back pain and other orthopedic concerns. Consult your trusted health expert at Healthbound Health Network today and make your dream of recovery come true.