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Spinal Anatomy and Conditions
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Herniated Disc
A condition in which the nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc bulges out through a tear in the annulus fibrosus, often causing pain by pressing on nearby nerves.
Cauda Equina Syndrome
A serious condition that occurs when the nerve roots in the lumbar spine are compressed, disrupting motor and sensory function to the lower extremities and bladder.
Cervical Spine
The upper part of the spinal column consisting of the first seven vertebrae (C1-C7) which support the head and permit a wide range of head movement.
Coccyx
Known as the tailbone, it is a small triangular bone at the very base of the spinal column consisting of typically four fused vertebrae, vestigial in nature.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
A form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, leading to severe inflammation of the spinal joints and resulting in chronic pain and stiffness.
Vertebrae
Bones that make up the spinal column; they protect the spinal cord and provide structural support to the body.
Spondylolisthesis
A condition in which one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, often due to a fracture or degeneration, leading to spinal nerve compression and pain.
Laminectomy
A surgical operation to remove a portion of the vertebral bone called the lamina, often done to relieve pressure caused by spinal stenosis.
Discectomy
A surgical procedure to remove the damaged portion of a herniated disc in the spine, which relieves pressure on the spinal nerves and alleviates pain.
Facet Joint
Small joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae that provide stability to the spine and allow motion.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
A genetic disorder characterized by weakness and wasting (atrophy) in the voluntary muscles, caused by the loss of motor neurons in the spinal cord.
Spinal Nerves
Nerves that originate from the spinal cord and branch out to the rest of the body; responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the body.
Osteoarthritis
A degenerative joint disease affecting various joints in the body including the spinal facet joints, causing pain, swelling, and reduced motion in the joints.
Radiculopathy
Disorder caused by the compression, inflammation or injury to a spinal nerve root, which can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the area of the body that the nerve supplies.
Sciatica
Pain along the course of the sciatic nerve which runs from the lower back down through the leg; often caused by compression or irritation of this nerve.
Intervertebral Discs
Cushion-like pads between vertebrae that act as shock absorbers and allow for flexibility of the spine.
Spinal Fusion
A surgical procedure to join two or more vertebrae into one single structure, aiming to reduce painful motion or to stabilize a weak or damaged spine.
Spinal Cord
A long, thin, tubular bundle of nervous tissue that extends from the brainstem to the lumbar region, responsible for transmitting neural signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
Kyphosis
A spinal disorder causing an excessive outward curve of the spine, resulting in an abnormal rounding or 'humpback' appearance.
Scoliosis
A condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It can occur in both children and adults and might cause pain and reduced respiratory function.
Thoracic Spine
Part of the spinal column that consists of twelve vertebrae (T1-T12) which are attached to the ribs; provides stability and protection for the upper body and organs.
Lumbar Spine
Comprises of five larger vertebrae (L1-L5), designed to bear the body's weight and enable movement such as twisting and bending.
Spinal Canal
The passage formed by the vertebral foramen in all of the vertebrae, which encloses and protects the spinal cord.
Spina Bifida
A congenital disorder where there is a malformation or incomplete closing of the backbone and membranes around the spinal cord.
Osteoporosis
A condition characterized by brittle and fragile bones due to decreased bone density and mass, often affecting the vertebrae and leading to fractures.
Spinal Stenosis
A narrowing of the spinal canal, which can cause pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots; symptoms include pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs.
Sacrum
A triangular bone at the base of the spine that is formed by the fusion of five sacral vertebrae (S1-S5), connecting the spine to the hip bones (iliac).
Lordosis
An exaggerated inward curvature of the lower back, often causing discomfort or pain; also known as swayback.
Degenerative Disc Disease
A condition where the intervertebral discs lose hydration and elasticity, often leading to chronic pain, instability, and herniation.
Spondylosis
Refers to degenerative changes in the spine such as bone spurs and degenerating intervertebral discs between the vertebrae.
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