Degenerative disc Disease- involves structures know as intervertebral discs.  These soft, fluid filled structures are located between the vertebrae (back bone).  They act as shock absorbers and allow movement of the spinal column.  As we get older the discs exhibit changes including loss of height (this is why we lose height as we age).  This condition occurs in all parts of the spine but is most common in the lower back and neck

Herniated Disc- “slipped disc”-an intervertebral disc may break, tear or bulge resulting in back pain or neck pain

Diabetic Neuropathy- Nerve damage found in individuals with diabtetes or consitently and perhaps unknown elevated glucose (blood sugar). This can affect many nerves, but most commonly the legs and feet. Symptoms include pain or numbness making the feet subject to unknown damage which due to the nature of Diabetes, makes healing difficult. Any abrasions or cuts found on the foot of a diabetic must be treated by a Physician immediately

Osteoarthritis- The most common type of arthritis, we can call this wear and tear arthritis.  It can be found in people as young as 30, but more commonly in ages 50 and above.  In a sense this is so common, I often consider it a normal sign of aging.  Changes occur in the cartilage located in our joints, which can result in joint pain and inflammation

Sciatica- an inflammation of the nerve which travels down our buttocks to the back of the leg and into the foot.  Symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling or burning sensation.  May be associated with other conditions

Peripheral Neuropathy- damage to nerves which exit the spinal cord and connect to other parts of the body. Symptoms include pain and impaired sensation. Includes many types and causes

Radiculopathy- occurs a result of many conditions.  Symptoms include numbness, pain tingling in arms or legs

Nerve Compression- “pinched nerve”- compression by a structure on a particular nerve or nerves.  Symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, burning in the affected area

Bursitis- an inflammation of a structure called a Bursa.  Bursae are located around many movable structure.  It is a fluid filled structure which lubricates the joint allowing for free movement.

Sprain- an overstretch injury of a ligament, often occurs as a result of sudden movement

Strain- an injury to a muscle, can occur from over use, sudden movement or direct injury

Myofascial Pain- muscle pain and inflammation caused by injury or other factors

TMJ- “temporal mandibular joint dysfunction” pain in the “jaw joint” and associated muscles and soft tissues can cause jaw pain, headaches, and muscle pain. In severe cases, patients experience sleep disturbances, dental problems and pain lasting much of the day.

Fibromyalgia-a chronic disease of muscles and soft tissues which results in widespread muscle pain especially in the neck, low back, shoulders and chest region and arms.  People with this condition have numerous “tender points” in the affected muscles and may also experience fatigue

Whiplash injury- results from an injury of sudden movement, we often associate this with automobile accidents. Damage occurs to muscles associated soft tissues Pain and stiffness are common complaints made by patients with this

Osteoporosis- a medical condition in which there is a weakening of the bones, which results in fractures.  Most commonly found in women as they approach or menopause.  Osteoporosis can also occur in men and is also associated with certain hormonal conditions, diseases and chronic steroid use. It is the major cause of hip fracture in older individuals a major cause of death in the elderly.  Early detection and appropriate medical treatments are the mainstay of medical care.

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