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In honor of this year’s National Spinal Health Month, Twin Cities’ iSpine Pain Physicians are using October to educate the community on the basics of chronic pain as well as chronic pain management. And to start, the board-certified back pain specialists are tackling the topic on every patient’s mind: the diagnosis.    

Top 5 Most Common Spinal Conditions  

1. Herniated Disc

back pain specialistThe spine is a complex structure consisting of 33 vertebrae, each cushioned by an intervertebral disc. A sports injury or other type of extreme force can cause the inner gel-like portion of a disc to protrude into the outer fibrous ring, thereby irritating nearby nerves. This condition is known as a herniated disc, and it affects over three million people in the United States every year.

2. Sciatica

Sciatica refers to an irritation of the sciatic nerve that causes pain, tingling or numbness that radiates from the lower back down through the legs. Like herniated discs, this condition affects over three million Americans every year and is one of the top disorders treated by these Minnesotan back pain specialists.

3. Spondylolisthesis

According to iSpine’s neck and back pain management specialists, spondylolisthesis is a widespread condition characterized by discomfort in the legs, buttocks, and lower back that worsens when standing. It develops after a vertebra slips forward onto the one below it, crowding the adjacent nerves.

4. Whiplash

chronic pain managementYour spine is designed to absorb the shock of everyday activities like running or jumping. It is not, however, designed for extreme force. So, if you’re in a rear-end car accident, the sudden backward and forward motion is enough to injure your spine, causing mild to severe neck pain as well as dizziness and headache. This condition is known as whiplash, and there are over 200,000 cases in the United States every year.

5. Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is an abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal that occurs either at birth or with age. The condition most often causes radiating pain or weakness in both the back and the extremities. Most chronic pain management plans for this disorder include a blend of physical therapy, self-care, and medication.

Though these five conditions are the most common diagnoses, there are many other possibilities. That’s why, if you have back pain, it’s essential that you visit iSpine Pain Physician’s board-certified back pain specialist as soon as possible. After a thorough examination, these professionals can identify the exact source of your discomfort and develop a personalized treatment plan. Call them at (763) 201-8191 today to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more details.

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