Tethered Spinal Cord

Tethered spinal cord syndrome is a disorder caused by tissue attachments that limit the movement of the spinal cord. This causes abnormal stretching of the spinal cord. Normally, the bottom of the spinal cord floats freely within a pool of spinal fluid.

The causes of tethered spinal cord are errors in normal development of the fetus. Many cases occur before a women knows she s pregnant.

Some symptoms of tethered spinal cord are, in children, lesions, hairy patches, dimples or fatty tumors on the back, foot and spinal deformities, scoliosis and low back pain. Sometimes children are born with an open defect in the back with elements of the spinal cord visualized at the skin.

If tethered cord is suspected, one or more tests may be performed. An MRI scan is usually the first. If the MRI does not confirm the tethered cord, a myelogram may be necessary. Sonography is also sometimes useful.

Treatment in children, if caught early, surgery is recommended to prevent further neurological damage. If surgery cannot be performed, spinal cord nerve roots may be cut to relieve pain.

For more information on tethered cord you can visit these sites, www.nature.com and www.backpain-guide.com

Multiple Sclerosis of Thoracic Spine

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) attacks the central nervous system. MS affects the areas of the brain and the spinal cord. MS destroys cells that help carry electrical signals. This condition can damage or block nerve signals that control muscle coordination, strength, sensation and vision. MS is an autoimmune condition. It is a chronic and debilitating disease.

Signs and symptoms may vary, depending on the location and area MS effects. Here are some common symptoms of MS:
numbness and weakness
partial or complete vision loss
tingling or pain in parts of the body
tremors, lack of coordination
fatigue
dizziness

Cause of MS is unknown. Women are affected twice as often as men.

MRI is great to detect lesions in the brain and spine.

At this time there is no cure for MS. There are medications that patients with MS can take to help with symptoms. Some patients take physical therapy. Steroids are given to patients with an acute MS attack.

To learn more about MS you can go to these sites:
www.hopkins-arthritis.org
www.thiome-connect.com

Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical Spondylosis also known as cervical osteoarthritis. This condition usually appears later in life, usually in early 30 to 40 years of age. This is an age-related wear and tear of the neck. as we age the cartilage gradually deteriorates. This is a common degenerative disease of the spine.

The common cause is just wear and tear as we age.

Some signs and symptoms are as follows:
Stiffness in the neck
Neck pain
Numbness in the arms, hands and legs
Tingling in the arms, hands and legs

Treatment depends on the severity on the spondylosis. In minor cases, people suffering from syondylosis wear a neck brace, take non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or some even do exercises. In severe cases, traction, muscle relaxants and surgery are options.

For more information on spondylosis you can visit these sites, www.cervical-spondylosis.com and www.medscape.com