What is a herniated disc?
Herniated discs are often referred to as "slipped discs". This term derived from the action of the nucleus tissue when it is forced from the center of the disc. The disc itself does not slip. However, the nucleus tissues located in the center of the disc can be placed under so much pressure that it can cause the annulus to herniate or rupture against one or more of the spinal nerves which can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the low back, leg or foot. Treatment options include medication, PT, Epidural Steroid Injections (Fluoroscopic guidance).
What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is defined as the narrowing of the spine column around the spinal cord or nerve roots. The spinal column is composed of a number of structures. The most delicate of these is the nerves, which make up the spinal cord and branch out into the nerve roots. The bones have a number of joints, called the facet joints, at every level of spine. For most patients the condition develops slowly over time. Treatment options include medication, PT, Epidural Steroid Injections (Fluoroscopic guidance).
What is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)?
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy is a syndrome that develops after injury. The injury can occur to any part of the body, including legs, arms, head or face. The body’s normal response to any injury is for the nerves to signal pain. This response does a number of things. First a reflex occurs in the spinal cord, which signals if a leg or arm is injured the limb is withdrawn from whatever is causing the injury such as a hot stove. Secondly, the blood vessels get very tight or constrict. This is also a protective response. If the blood vessel is cut, we do not want to bleed excessively, therefore, the nerves make the blood vessel go into spasm, reducing blood loss. The third phase is the emotional or cognitive response. This is where we become aware of what is causing the problem and take appropriate action to correct the situation. In patients with reflex sympathetic dystrophy, the body never gets quite back to normal. The nerves stay hyperactive causing increased pain and blood vessel spasm called vasoconstriction. This tightening of the blood vessels causes swelling of the limb, discoloration and increased pain. This pain from the reduced blood flow keeps the nerves excited, which then keeps the blood vessels tight. Treatment options include PT, medication management, sympathetic blocks, and spinal cord stimulator.
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