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 herniated or rupture against one or more of the spinal nerves which can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the low back. leg or foot.

Other names used for herniated discs are "prolapsed", "bulging", "ruptured".

Sciatica is defined by a pain along the large sciatic nerve that runs from the lower back down through the buttocks and along the back of each leg – is a relatively common form of back pain.

Sciatica is usually caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve from a herniated disc (also referred to as a bulging disc, ruptured disc or pinched nerve). The problem is often diagnosed as a "radiculopathy", meaning that a disc has protruded from its normal position in the vertebral column and is putting pressure on the radicular nerve (nerve root).

For some people, the pain from sciatica can be severe and debilitating. For others, the pain might be infrequent and irritating, but has the potential to get worse. Usually, sciatica only affects one side, and the pain often radiates through the buttock and/or leg.

One or more of the following sensations may occur:

•  Pain in the buttocks and/or leg that is worse when sitting
•  Burning or tingling down the leg
•  Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the leg or foot
•  A constant pain on one side of the buttocks
•  A shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up

You probably know someone with arthritis. Arthritis—which means joint inflammation—affects 43 million people, about one in every six Americans. You might be surprised to know that arthritis doesn't affect only older people; more than half of people with arthritis are under age 65.

The three major symptoms of arthritis are joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Do these symptoms sound familiar? Do you think you might have arthritis? Your doctor can help you sort out the possibilities and make choices regarding your next step. Early intervention can help you receive the right diagnosis and begin treatment so you can start getting relief from arthritis symptoms sooner.

Remember, only your doctor can properly assess your symptoms and give you an accurate diagnosis. And only your doctor can recommend a course of treatment that's best suited to your condition and your needs. If you have joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness that consistently bothers you, see your doctor.

SCOLIOSIS

Many people have curved spines. In fact, small spinal curves, less than 10 degrees, are considered a normal variation of the spine. Scoliosis is a condition that involves larger spinal curves, greater than 10 degrees. The spinal curves are usually S-shaped or C-shaped, and the spine is often twisted. Scoliosis usually occurs in the mid back (thoracic spine) or lower back (lumbar spine)

In most cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown (called idiopathic scoliosis). Scoliosis can affect adults, but it is most common in young people, especially girls between the ages of 10 and 16.1   Scoliosis and its treatment can dramatically impact a person’s life.

Lower back pain is one of the most common conditions and one of the leading causes of physician visits in the US. In fact, at least four out of five adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives.

Ironically, the severity of the pain is often unrelated to the extent of physical damage. Muscle spasm from a simple back strain can cause excruciating back pain that can make it difficult to walk or even stand, whereas a large herniated disc or completely degenerated disc can be completely painless.

The causes of back pain can be very complex, and there are many structures in the lower back that can cause pain. The following parts of spinal anatomy can cause pain:

•  The large nerve roots that go to the legs and arms may be irritated
•  The smaller nerves that innervate the spine may be irritated
•  The large paired back muscles (erector spinae) may be strained
•  The bones, ligaments or joints may be injured
•  The intervertebral disc may be injured