Discs are the cushions between the vertebrae, the bones of your spine. When part of the disc becomes weak, such as from excessive physical strain, the gel within the disc can bulge, protrude or extrude. This is commonly referred to as a herniated, ruptured or slipped disc. When this occurs, the nerves from the spinal cord may become compressed, causing back pain and shooting pain down the legs called sciatica.
Bony formations that develop along the joint edge of the body or small joints of the vertebrae are also called osteophytes. Here they can pinch the spinal cord or spinal nerves, causing pain in the neck or pain or tingling down the arms.
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones gradually become weak and vulnerable to injury. The weakened vertebrae may collapse or fracture. These compression fractures may be painful and result in loss of height and may distort the curvature of the spine.
Degenerative disc disease and bone spurs are common conditions seen with osteoarthritis of the spine. In osteoarthritis, cartilage becomes brittle and wears away. The cartilaginous discs or cushions between the bodies of the vertebrae, the bones of the spine, degenerate, resulting in narrowing of the disc space and pain. The cartilage caps of the facet joints wear, which causes pain and loss of flexibility. Also, the narrowed space and the spurring can pinch the spinal nerves, resulting in pain and tingling down the legs, a condition called sciatica.
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the spine. Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms include pain and stiffness from the neck down to the lower back. The spine's bones, vertebrae, may grow or fuse together, resulting in a rigid spine. These changes may be mild or severe, and may lead to a stooped-over posture.
Literally, spondylolisthesis means a slipping forward of the spine or in this case, of one vertebra onto another. This may be the result of injury or any condition that weakens the bone such as degenerative disc disease or spinal fracture.
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general information purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the BootsWebMD Site. If you have a medical problem please contact your GP. In England call 111. In Scotland call NHS 24. In Wales, call NHS Direct Wales. In the case of medical emergencies, always dial 999.
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