The spinal cord is a delicate tubular structure in the body. It is made up of 33 spool-shaped bones, containing a bundle of nerves called sensory roots and motor roots, which connect different parts of the musculoskeletal system. This controls physical activities. The entire spinal cord can be understood mainly in 5 parts, which are cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum, and coccyx. Disorders in these areas result in problems with the spine. Many disorders of the spinal cord can be degenerative along with being painful in some cases.
Common spine problems in older adults are lumbar disc, spinal cord injury, spondylosis sciatica, spinal infection, spinal osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, scoliosis and spinal deformity, tumor, whiplash, etc. Spinal disorders can be caused by many factors. To help control these spinal problems, at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital our spine specialist in Mumbai, provides comprehensive treatment and diagnosis for spine care. Let us help you understand common spinal conditions with the insight of orthopedic experts and learn how we can help improve your life.
The spinal cord is made up of spool-shaped bones which are medically called spinal discs. This cushion-like disc is located between each bone of the spine. Spinal discs act as shock absorbers in the body. These discs, which are filled with a gel-like fluid, allow the spine to bend and flex. If there is any change in these discs with age, due to genetics or due to injury, then it is known as degenerative disc disease. But in general, it is not a disease as per its name. Degenerative disc disease is a condition of spine Injuries & disorders that refers to natural age-related changes. The top orthopedic doctor in Mumbai can help you with its treatment and prevention.
Causes: Over time, the water content and elasticity of the discs decrease, causing the spinal discs to thin and their ability to absorb shock and provide cushioning between the vertebrae to decrease. Other contributing factors to degenerative disc disease include genetics, smoking, obesity, and repeated stress on the spine. Due to this the working system of these discs may change.
Symptoms: Generally, the main spine problems symptoms of these diseases is pain, which can spread from the neck to the feet. But the symptoms of pain do not apply to every case with symptoms of degenerative spine disorder. The onset of symptoms of degenerative spine disorder can be accompanied by pain, swelling, and muscle spasms. In some cases, the pain may be mild but lasts for more than three-four months, while in some cases, it may be worse, which may even cause movement problems for the patient.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis of degenerative disc disease primarily involves a combination of X-rays, medical history, MRI, discography, CT scan, physical examination, and imaging studies. Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital is one of the most technologically advanced and best orthopedic hospital in Mumbai in the country. We are equipped with top medical equipment to provide the best orthopedic care in the country. And our team of the best orthopedic doctors in Mumbai is committed to providing the best orthopedic treatment by global standards.
Degenerative spine disease is one of the diseases arising from aging, it cannot be controlled completely. But prescribed exercise, lifestyle modifications, and good nutrition can help prevent painful and disabling spine problems symptoms. Since the treatment of Degenerative Spine disease is focused on relieving the existing inflammation and pain, at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital, the best orthopedic doctor in Mumbai suggests patient-wise non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, antidepressants along with acupuncture, physiotherapy, or exercise can give. Surgery may be an option in more severe cases. Management such as pain management, physical therapy, activity modification, and chiropractic care for a comprehensive and individualized management plan for disc disease can provide relief to the patient.
Spinal discs act as shock absorbers in the body. These discs, which are filled with a gel-like fluid, affect the spinal cord. When the inner core of the spinal disc known as the nucleus pulposus, pushes on the disc's exterior. As a result, the disc moves out of its normal position, then it is called a herniated disc or slipped disc. When the bulging core of the disc rubs against the nerves and spinal cord, its pressure can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the area of the body affected by the nerves affected.
Causes: As a person ages, the nucleus pulposus breaks down, or moves out of place, due to being less hydrated and vulnerable. This becomes the main factor of progressive disc herniation. Other factors contributing to herniated disc disease include injury, genetics, connective tissue disorders, obesity, and repeated stress on the spine. A herniated disc can usually occur in any part of the spine, from the neck to the lower back.
Symptoms: Common symptoms of spinal problems in adults include localized pain in the back or neck, radiating pain down the limbs, numbness and tingling sensations, muscle weakness in the legs or arms, changes in reflexes, and worsening pain with certain movements. These symptoms can vary based on the location of the herniated disc and whether it affects nearby nerves. Recognizing these symptoms can help people seek appropriate medical attention for their condition.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis of herniated disc disease primarily involves a combination of X-rays, medical history, MRI, discography, CT scan, physical examination, and imaging studies. Our team of the best orthopedic doctors in Mumbai is committed to providing the best orthopedic treatment per global standards.
Orthopedic doctor at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital Powai suggests non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, antidepressants as well as acupuncture, physiotherapy, or exercise to the patient. , Surgery may be an option in more severe cases. Management such as pain management, physical therapy, activity modification, and chiropractic care for a comprehensive and individualized management plan for disc disease can provide relief to the patient.
Spinal stenosis is a condition of common spine Injuries & disorders in which there is a gradual narrowing of the spinal canal in one or more places. And there is pressure on the veins passing through it. Due to the muscles of the body spasms, or pain in the back, buttocks, thighs, calves, neck, shoulders or arms, in severe cases of spinal stenosis, our spine specialist in Mumbai may recommend surgery.
Causes: Spinal stenosis can be caused by degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis, herniated discs putting pressure on the spinal cord, bone spurs from arthritis narrowing the spinal canal, thickened ligaments reducing space, congenital narrow spinal canal, and injuries leading to swelling and narrowing.
Symptoms: Due to spinal stenosis, pain in the lower parts of the body can be experienced along with cramping pain, numbness, and weakness in the body.
Diagnosis: Usually, since the symptoms of spinal stenosis are similar to those of other spinal disorders, it cannot be accurately estimated. This is the reason why our doctors at the best orthopedic hospital in Mumbai can arrange for the diagnosis and treatment through X-ray, MRI, and CT scan.
Depending on the initial symptoms of spinal stenosis, spine specialists in Mumbai emphasize on non-surgical treatment including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy. Laminectomy and spinal fusion options may be used to manage more severe cases of spinal stenosis.
In severe cases of spinal stenosis, a spine specialist in Mumbai may recommend surgery.
If severe spinal stenosis is reducing your quality of life, talk to our orthopedic doctors in Mowai at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital to know about the full range of spine surgery treatment options available in Mumbai.
Scoliosis disease is one of the major common spinal conditions in which instead of being straight, the spine bends to one side like S or C. It mostly affects the chest and lower back. It is also called 'spinal curvature' or 'lateral kyphosis'. Scoliosis can begin at any age but is more likely to occur in childhood or adolescence. Due to this problem in breathing, back pain, bad posture, etc. can be seen commonly. In most cases, people with scoliosis are able to lead a normal life and do most activities, including exercise and sports. But in some severe cases, scoliosis disease can be serious. This is the reason why our best orthopedic doctors in Mumbai give importance to early detection and treatment of scoliosis disease. This can help prevent curvature of the bones because once the spine is curved, it cannot be completely treated.
There are four main types:
Causes: There is no medically known exact cause of scoliosis, as with other Spine Injuries & disorders, the causes of scoliosis can be birth defects, muscular dystrophy, family history, age, gender, connective tissue disorders, spinal cord injury, or infection.
Symptoms: Scoliosis disease usually has symptoms such as bending of the body to one side, uneven shoulders, uneven waist and one hip being higher than the other; In many cases, due to scoliosis, the sufferer may have difficulty in breathing and chest discomfort.
Diagnosis: To diagnose scoliosis disease, doctors may recommend a physical examination, examination of the spine apart from imaging tests like an X-ray, MRI scan, CT scan, bone scan, etc. If you have any queries regarding scoliosis disease, you can consult a spine specialist in Mumbai.
In line with scoliosis treatment and diagnosis, scoliosis is classified by surgeons and researchers as idiopathic scoliosis, congenital scoliosis, neuromuscular scoliosis, and degenerative scoliosis. Spine surgeons can usually recommend observation, bracing, and surgery to manage these conditions accordingly. In most cases of scoliosis, the symptoms can be significantly improved with exercise, medications, and physiotherapy procedures. In full-blown scoliosis cases, surgery may be needed to stop or reduce the worsening of the curve.
After the surgical procedure for scoliosis, the patient can resume normal daily activities in 3-4 weeks.
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs due to the sudden movement of the head and neck, often resembling the motion of a whip. It is commonly associated with rear-end car collisions but can also happen in other scenarios such as sports injuries or falls.
Causes: Whiplash is commonly caused by motor vehicle accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. It can also result from sports injuries involving sudden stops or changes in direction, falls landing on the head or neck, and certain types of physical abuse.
Symptoms: Common symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, headaches starting at the base of the skull, shoulder pain spreading to the upper back, numbness or tingling in the arms or hands due to nerve irritation, dizziness or lightheadedness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating or memory issues, often referred to as "whiplash-associated disorder.".
Diagnosis: Whiplash is typically diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and, if necessary, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. The healthcare provider will gather details about the injury, assess symptoms, examine the neck for range of motion and tenderness, and conduct neurological tests to evaluate reflexes and strength. Differential diagnosis may also be considered to rule out other potential causes of neck pain and related symptoms.
The treatment for whiplash depends on the severity of the injury and symptoms. Common approaches include rest to allow the injury to heal while avoiding prolonged inactivity that can lead to stiffness. Physical therapy exercises tailored to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion, along with manual therapy like massage or mobilization, can help alleviate pain and stiffness. Medications such as pain relievers and muscle relaxants are used to manage pain and inflammation, while heat and cold therapy can aid in reducing swelling and improving blood flow.
The spine problem of sciatica is one of the Spine problems symptoms arising due to spinal disorders. In this, the sciatic nerve gets compressed and due to this, intense pain can be felt in the lower part of the body (from the waist to the feet).
Factors that can cause compression of the sciatic nerve include herniated disc, spinal cord injury, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, piriformis syndrome, pelvic injury or fracture, etc. These include back pain, pain in the hips around the buttock, burning sensation in the leg, numbness, tingling, etc. In most cases of sciatica, the problem usually resolves successfully with time and conservative, non-surgical treatments. However, if sciatica persists despite these treatments, a spine specialist may consider surgery.
Causes: Sciatica can be caused by a herniated disc, spinal cord injury, spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, spondylolisthesis, piriformis syndrome, pelvic injury, fracture, and many other causes.
Symptoms: Patients with sciatica may have symptoms of severe pain in the lower back, buttocks, and lower legs, along with numbness or weakness in these areas and, in some cases, problems with bowel and bladder control.
Diagnosis: In sciatica, doctors recommend a physical examination, or spinal examination, apart from imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, CT scans, etc.
Doctors who treat sciatica use anti-inflammatory drugs and over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce pain and inflammation.
Alternative treatments such as exercise, yoga, and physiotherapy can also be used to relieve stress on the sciatic nerve. In some severe cases, in which the patient does not get relief from conservative treatment, spinal injection or sciatica surgery may be suggested.
Osteoporosis is a bone condition in which bones become weak and of low density over time, making them more prone to fractures from normal daily activities. Fractures in the bones of the spine due to osteoporosis are known as vertebral fractures or vertebral compression fractures. Osteoporosis usually results in fractures of the small bones of the spine, hip, and wrist. However, cases of vertebral fractures are at the forefront of all of them. The symptoms of osteoporosis and vertebral fracture patients usually include sudden onset of back pain, change in posture, and fracture of bones even with minor trauma. The team of the best orthopedic doctors at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital Mumbai is committed to providing the best orthopedic treatment as per global standards for the management of osteoporosis and reducing the risk of vertebral fractures.
Causes: In general, osteoporosis risk increases with age. Other factors that may contribute to osteoporosis include genetics, diet, hormone level disorders, alcohol consumption, calcium deficiency, steroids, and other medications. Along with this, medical conditions like kidney or liver disease, celiac disease, and rheumatoid arthritis also increase the chances of osteoporosis.
Symptoms: In addition to the common symptoms of pain with a back strain, increased pain on standing or walking can be a symptom of a vertebral compression fracture. In severe cases, there may be neuralgic pain that may spread from the neck to the feet. This condition is made worse by taking a deep breath, coughing, sneezing, and moving.
Diagnosis: Traditionally, the diagnosis of osteoporotic vertebral fractures primarily involved a combination of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, medical history, MRI, bone density scan, and imaging studies. Both osteoporosis and vertebral fractures require proper medical evaluation and management. If you suspect that you have osteoporosis or have experienced a vertebral fracture, it is important to consult the best orthopedic doctor in Mumbai for proper diagnosis and treatment.
As such, no complete or spot-cure is possible for diseases related to the spine problem. The best way to prevent osteoporosis and vertebral fractures can be through lifestyle modification, dietary changes, exercise, and addiction. The options adopted by doctors for the treatment of spinal problems in adults include screening and early diagnosis, along with drugs that increase bone mass. Additional preventive measures include adding calcium-rich foods to the sufferer's diet, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, leading a healthy lifestyle, getting enough sleep and managing stress, and getting regular bone density tests. The sufferer can seek consultation and treatment together with our top orthopedic doctor in Mumbai to develop a plan best suited to their individual needs and circumstances.
Through early intervention, awareness of active spine health management, and a commitment to adopting healthy habits, individuals can strive for a life characterized by a strong and flexible spine. Proactive steps by the patient and the doctor play an important role in reducing the risk of developing common spine conditions and ensuring long-term spinal health. In addition, ongoing advances in orthopedics may lead to improved diagnostic accuracy, minimally invasive treatment options, and a more targeted approach to addressing spine-related ailments. Sufferers need to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a plan tailored to their individual needs and circumstances.
For expert advice on managing chronic back pain, explore our blog post: Tips to Manage Chronic Back Pain
The Department of Orthopaedics, Joint Replacement, Sports Medicine, and Spine Surgery at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital is one of the internationally renowned orthopedic centers. Our top orthopedic doctors in Mumbai treat musculoskeletal, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles by following a complete protocol. Has expertise in treating such conditions which includes detailed diagnostic evaluation, effective treatment approaches, surgical procedures, post-operative care, and accelerated rehabilitation programs. Our spine surgery team in Mumbai is equipped with advanced arthroscopic equipment with computer navigation and digital radiography, CT scan, and MRI facilities for cases ranging from trauma to spine surgery, arthroscopy to sports injuries, and joint replacement surgery to pediatric orthopedics provides services. You can schedule a consultation with one of our best orthopedic doctors in Mumbai to address spine-related ailments and develop a plan tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.
Dr Pradeep K Singh (MBBS, MS, DNB, PhD, FMISS Ortho, Spine) is one of the top spine specialists in Mumbai, has more than 20 years of experience, and is working as a full-time consultant spine surgeon at Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital. He has done more than 4000 spine surgeries including minimally invasive spine surgeries, deformity corrections, spine cord injury, spinal instrumentation, degenerative diseases, and infections. He is trained in doing cervical spine, thoracic, and lumbar spine surgeries.
