Condition Lookup

Herniated disc

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Sub-category: Degenerative Conditions

Symptoms:
lower back pain; sciatica (radiating leg pain); numbness or tingling in limbs; weakness in muscles; loss of reflexes

Root Cause:
The soft inner gel-like core of a spinal disc (nucleus pulposus) protrudes through a tear in the outer layer (annulus fibrosus), often putting pressure on nearby nerves.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation with physical examination, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or CT (Computed Tomography) scan to confirm the presence of disc herniation.

Treatment:
Conservative treatments include rest, physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and epidural steroid injections. Surgical intervention may be necessary if conservative measures fail.

Medications:
Medications for pain management include NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen ), oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ), and muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ). For severe pain, opioids may be prescribed temporarily, though these are used with caution. Epidural steroid injections (e.g., methylprednisolone ) may be used to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
It is common, affecting about 2-3% of the adult population, with higher rates in individuals between 30 and 50 years old.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, smoking, obesity, heavy lifting, sedentary lifestyle, and a family history of disc problems.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many cases improve with non-surgical treatment, but the condition can recur. Surgery can be effective in relieving symptoms when required.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Nerve damage leading to permanent weakness, bowel or bladder dysfunction, chronic pain, and reduced mobility.

Degenerative disc disease

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Spinal Disorders

Sub-category: Degenerative Conditions

Symptoms:
chronic lower back pain; pain that worsens with movement or after long periods of sitting; numbness or tingling in the legs; muscle weakness

Root Cause:
The intervertebral discs lose hydration, elasticity, and height over time, leading to disc degeneration and reduced cushioning between vertebrae, often causing spinal instability.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
MRI or X-rays are used to evaluate the condition of the discs, while a physical examination helps to assess the severity of symptoms.

Treatment:
Physical therapy, lifestyle changes (weight loss, avoiding heavy lifting), NSAIDs, and sometimes epidural steroid injections. In more severe cases, spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement surgery may be considered.

Medications:
NSAIDs like ibuprofen , acetaminophen for pain relief, and oral corticosteroids such as prednisone may be prescribed for inflammation. Opioids can be prescribed on a short-term basis in severe cases. Muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ) are sometimes used for muscle spasms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects a large proportion of older adults, with studies suggesting that about 30-40% of individuals over 40 may have some degree of disc degeneration, though it does not always cause symptoms.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, genetics, previous back injury, obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms can often be managed with conservative treatment, though some individuals experience chronic pain or recurrent flare-ups. Surgical options may provide relief for more severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, reduced mobility, nerve damage, and the need for spinal fusion surgery in advanced cases.

Spinal stenosis

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Spinal Disorders

Sub-category: Degenerative Conditions

Symptoms:
lower back pain; leg pain or cramping; numbness or tingling in the legs; weakness in the legs; difficulty walking; balance problems

Root Cause:
The spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This is usually caused by age-related changes such as thickening of ligaments and disc degeneration.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, MRI, and CT scans are used to identify the narrowing of the spinal canal and evaluate its impact on the nerves.

Treatment:
Treatment options include physical therapy, NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, and, in severe cases, surgery such as laminectomy or spinal fusion to relieve pressure on the nerves.

Medications:
NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen , corticosteroid injections (e.g., methylprednisolone ) to reduce inflammation, and opioids for short-term pain relief in severe cases. Antidepressants or anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin ) may be used for nerve pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
It is common in older adults, with prevalence rates increasing with age. Around 8-10% of individuals over 60 experience symptomatic spinal stenosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, genetics, prior spinal injuries, arthritis, obesity, and certain genetic conditions like achondroplasia.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
While spinal stenosis is a progressive condition, it can often be managed with conservative treatment, though some individuals may eventually require surgery to maintain mobility and quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent nerve damage, loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty walking, and in severe cases, paralysis.

Scoliosis

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Spinal Disorders

Sub-category: Structural Disorders

Symptoms:
uneven shoulders; one shoulder blade more prominent; uneven hips; back pain; in severe cases, breathing difficulties

Root Cause:
Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, typically in an "S" or "C" shape.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays to determine the degree of curvature, MRI or CT scans if underlying neurological issues are suspected.

Treatment:
Observation, physical therapy, bracing for moderate curvature, and surgery (spinal fusion) for severe cases.

Medications:
Pain relievers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen , acetaminophen ) may be prescribed to manage discomfort. Muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine can be used for muscle spasms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 2-3% of the general population, with a higher prevalence among females. Most commonly diagnosed during childhood or adolescence.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, age (typically onset occurs between ages 10-15), sex (more common in girls), and certain genetic conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is generally good if caught early. Mild scoliosis may not require treatment, while severe cases may lead to complications such as respiratory issues and chronic pain if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic back pain, restricted lung function, nerve compression, and in severe cases, heart problems due to compromised lung function.

Kyphosis

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Spinal Disorders

Sub-category: Structural Disorders

Symptoms:
rounded back; back pain; stiffness; fatigue; in severe cases, difficulty breathing

Root Cause:
Excessive outward curvature of the spine, leading to a hunchback or rounded appearance.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays to assess the degree of spinal curvature, MRI or CT scans to evaluate any associated spinal issues.

Treatment:
Posture correction exercises, physical therapy, braces for growing children, pain management, and surgery (spinal fusion or corrective surgery) in severe cases.

Medications:
Pain relief (NSAIDs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen ), muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ), and corticosteroids for inflammation if necessary.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects around 1 in 10 people over the age of 50 due to age-related degeneration, but can also occur in adolescents (Scheuermann's kyphosis) and those with certain conditions (e.g., osteogenesis imperfecta).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age-related bone loss (osteoporosis), degenerative disc disease, congenital spinal deformities, and certain medical conditions like Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, many individuals experience symptom relief and improved posture. Severe kyphosis can lead to chronic pain and respiratory issues if left untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, nerve damage, difficulty breathing, decreased mobility, and spinal fractures (especially in older adults with osteoporosis).

Spondylolisthesis

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Spinal Disorders

Sub-category: Structural Disorders

Symptoms:
lower back pain; muscle tightness; numbness or tingling in the legs; weakness in the legs; difficulty walking

Root Cause:
Forward displacement of one vertebra over another, usually in the lumbar spine. This can occur due to degeneration, injury, or congenital defects.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-rays to identify vertebral displacement, MRI or CT scans to assess nerve compression and spinal cord involvement.

Treatment:
Conservative treatments include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and pain management. In severe cases, surgery (spinal fusion or decompression surgery) may be required.

Medications:
NSAIDs (ibuprofen , naproxen ) for pain relief, muscle relaxants (e.g., methocarbamol ) for muscle spasms, and corticosteroids for inflammation if necessary.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 5-7% of the population, most commonly in older adults, and can also affect younger individuals involved in sports or those with congenital spinal abnormalities.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (degenerative spondylolisthesis), genetics (familial history), trauma, sports (repetitive hyperextension of the spine), and osteoporosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many individuals with mild cases may manage symptoms with non-surgical treatments. Severe cases may require surgical intervention, and untreated spondylolisthesis can lead to chronic pain and nerve damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, nerve root compression, spinal stenosis, and in severe cases, permanent nerve damage leading to weakness or loss of function in the legs.

Spinal Fractures

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Spinal Disorders

Sub-category: Traumatic Injuries

Symptoms:
severe back pain; decreased mobility or movement; numbness or tingling in extremities; muscle weakness; loss of bowel or bladder control (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
Damage to the bones (vertebrae) of the spine due to trauma or injury, leading to fractures that can compress the spinal cord or nerves.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination. X-rays. MRI or CT scans (for more detailed images of soft tissues and bone fractures).

Treatment:
Conservative treatment (rest, pain management, bracing) for minor fractures. Surgical intervention (spinal fusion or decompression) for severe fractures or instability.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen ) for pain management. Muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine ) to alleviate muscle spasms. Opioids (e.g., oxycodone , morphine ) for severe pain under controlled conditions. Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) may be used in some cases to reduce inflammation, though this is less common for spinal fractures.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated at 20 to 50 per 100,000 people annually, with higher rates in older populations and those with osteoporosis

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (older adults are more prone due to osteoporosis). High-impact trauma (e.g., car accidents, falls, sports injuries). Osteoporosis or other bone-weakening conditions. Tumors or infections affecting the spine.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good if treated early and appropriately, especially in cases of stable fractures. Poorer outcomes in severe cases with spinal cord injury or nerve involvement, which may lead to permanent disability.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spinal cord injury leading to paralysis. Nerve damage causing loss of sensation or motor function. Chronic pain and mobility issues. Infections or complications following surgery.

Whiplash

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Spinal Disorders

Sub-category: Traumatic Injuries

Symptoms:
neck pain and stiffness; headaches (particularly at the base of the skull); dizziness or vertigo; muscle spasms in the neck and shoulders; tingling or numbness in the arms

Root Cause:
Injury to the soft tissues (muscles, ligaments) in the neck from a sudden, forceful jerking motion, often from rear-end car collisions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination. X-rays or MRI scans (to rule out fractures or other injuries).

Treatment:
Rest and avoidance of activities that exacerbate pain. Physical therapy for neck strengthening and mobility. Application of heat or cold therapy. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.

Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation. Muscle relaxants (e.g., diazepam , cyclobenzaprine ) for muscle spasms. Opioids (e.g., hydrocodone ) for severe pain, though their use is typically limited to short-term management. Antidepressants or anticonvulsants (e.g., amitriptyline , gabapentin ) may be prescribed for chronic pain management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Whiplash affects approximately 1 in 1,000 individuals per year, with a higher prevalence in rear-end automobile collisions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Vehicle accidents (particularly rear-end collisions). Age (older individuals may be more susceptible). Gender (women are more likely to develop chronic whiplash symptoms). Previous neck or back injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most individuals recover within a few weeks to months with proper treatment. Chronic pain or long-term neck issues may occur in a subset of patients, particularly if not properly treated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic neck pain. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Ongoing headache and dizziness. Nerve damage or chronic muscle spasms.

Spinal Cord Injury

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Spinal Disorders

Sub-category: Traumatic Injuries

Symptoms:
paralysis (partial or complete) below the level of the injury; loss of sensation or feeling in the extremities; difficulty breathing (if the injury affects the respiratory muscles); loss of bowel or bladder control; severe pain or burning sensations around the injury site

Root Cause:
Damage to the spinal cord resulting in a loss of function, sensation, and mobility. This can occur due to trauma, such as a car accident, fall, or gunshot wound, that compresses, stretches, or cuts the spinal cord.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical and neurological examination. MRI or CT scans to assess the location and extent of spinal cord damage.

Treatment:
Immediate immobilization of the spine to prevent further damage. Surgery to remove bone fragments or discs compressing the spinal cord. Rehabilitation to maximize independence and mobility. Medications to manage pain and inflammation, such as corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone)

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone ) within hours of injury to reduce inflammation and damage to the spinal cord. Pain relievers, including NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) and opioids (e.g., morphine ) for pain management. Muscle relaxants (e.g., baclofen ) for muscle spasms. Antidepressants or anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin ) for nerve pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 54 cases per million people annually. Approximately 17,000 new cases are reported in the U.S. each year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma (motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, violence). Age (young adults, particularly men, are more commonly affected). Pre-existing spinal conditions, such as stenosis or degeneration.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the injury. Some individuals can recover partial function with rehabilitation, while others may experience permanent paralysis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory complications (especially in high cervical injuries). Pressure sores or ulcers. Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Chronic pain and neuropathic pain. Increased risk of infections due to immobility or catheter use.