A branch of orthopedic surgery specializing in problems related to the bones, joints, and soft tissues (discs/nerves/spinal cord/muscles/tendon/ligaments) of the entire spine from the neck down to the lower back. The main goal of this specialized area in orthopedics is restoring the alignment, stability, and function of the spine for everyday activity.
Herniated Disk
The rupture of a vertebral disc can be caused by the normal wear of aging or by traumatic injury. A herniated disc can push painfully against a nerve root, sending pain down the sciatic nerve and resulting in a burning, tingling and/or numbing sensation from the lower back down to one or both feet.
Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)
This is a weakening of one or more vertebral discs, which normally act as a cushion between the vertebrae. This condition can develop as a natural part of the aging process, but it may also result from injury to the back.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis results from new bone and soft tissue growth on the vertebrae, which reduces the space in the spinal canal. When the nerve roots are pinched, a painful burning, tingling and/or numbing sensation is felt from the lower back down to the legs and sometimes all the way to the feet.
