Herniated Disk

Most common in the lower spine, though also affecting the neck, a herniated disk presses on the nerves around the backbone. Symptoms include severe pain, weakness and tingling over the buttocks, in one or both legs or feet, down one or both arms. Surgical options include laminectomy, microdiskectomy, spinal fusion.

Spinal Stenosis

Most common in middle-aged or elderly people, spinal stenosis is often a consequence of the natural aging process, but it may also be caused by arthritis, Paget's disease or as a result of injury. Pain and numbness worsens with standing, walking and exercise, and radiates to the legs and neck. X-ray's, MRI, spinal CT's and EMG's may be used to assist in diagnosing.

Spinal Instability

The slipping of one vertebra over another, potentially damaging the spinal cord or nerve roots, leads to structural changes. Instability can cause an eventual fracture if not treated.

Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy (CSM)

CSM is an impaired function of the spinal cord caused by degenerative changes to the discs. CSM most frequently affects people over 50.