Back Clinic Chiropractic Spine Care Team. The spine is designed with three natural curves; the neck curvature or cervical spine, the upper back curvature or thoracic spine, and the lower back curvature or lumbar spine, all of which come together to form a slight shape when viewed from the side. The spine is an essential structure as it helps support the upright posture of humans, it provides the body with the flexibility to move and it plays the crucial role of protecting the spinal cord. Spinal health is important in order to ensure the body is functioning to its fullest capacity. Dr. Alex Jimenez strongly indicates across his collection of articles on spine care, how to properly support a healthy spine. For more information, please feel free to contact us at (915) 850-0900 or text to call Dr. Jimenez personally at (915) 540-8444.
Most individuals go about their lives without thinking about poor posture and spinal misalignment, not to mention the spinal health problems/conditions that are associated with misaligned vertebrae. Most spinal misalignments come on as a result of:
Poor posture habits
Unhealthy diet
Destructive lifestyle choices
Sudden misalignments caused by accident/s or injury/s
Sudden misalignments can be associated with a direct cause that an individual can recognize increased symptoms and injury. It�s the long-term spinal misalignment that can become dangerous if left untreated and out of alignment. This is when it is time to see a chiropractor for an immediate spinal realignment.
Body Posture Mechanics
Poor posture along with poor body mechanics contributes to spinal misalignment. This creates unnecessary and consistent pressure on the:
Muscles
Ligaments
Joints
Discs
The pressure also causes a stretching of the nerves in the neck and low back. These nerves are responsible for transmitting, muscle expansion/contraction signals, vital information, and energy to the body’s organs. Any nerve interference will diminish the energy/blood flow to the limbs and organs. This can lead to disease and other major health complications like:
Chronic pain
Decreased mobility
Joint stiffness
Slouched posture
Reduced range of motion
Discomfort when sitting, standing, and lying down
Permanent joint/bone deformity/s
Broken bones, specifically in the spine
Most individuals do not recognize the gradual or long-term health problems linked to the spinal misalignment. Often the signs and symptoms are very subtle, so do not raise a cause for concern. The most direct symptoms of poor posture and spinal misalignment include:
Sore/stiff neck or back
Low energy
Tiredness/fatigue
Headaches
Back muscle spasms
Joint pain
Numbness
Tingling
Altered sensations
In addition to the symptoms, individuals should realize that underlying health conditions could also be linked to poor posture and spinal misalignment. If any of these symptoms are presenting see a chiropractor for an examination and proper diagnosis. These symptoms can be masked with pain killers, mattresses, or caffeinated drinks. However, these will not realign the spine to its proper form.
Chiropractic Lower Back Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Veintemillas Ar�iz, M T et al. �Changes in spinal alignment.� �Alteraciones de la alineaci�n vertebral.��Radiologia�vol. 58 Suppl 1 (2016): 115-27. doi:10.1016/j.rx.2016.01.007
Young adults don’t think about disc deterioration/degeneration until it’s time for the golden years. The disorder is known as Scheuermann’s disease,�Scheuermann’s Kyphosis, and juvenile disc disorder. It affects young adults usually in the late teens to early thirties. Spinal injuries can be the cause but many doctors believe genetics that leads to disc degeneration is a major factor. And still, others believe it is the wear and tear on the spine as the main cause.
The disorder is characterized by disc degeneration throughout the spine. The discs are weakened and cannot withstand the pressure of everyday spinal support. Then the spine is open to all kinds of spinal health issues. These include:
If left untreated, the condition shifts into full-blown degenerative disc disease combined with various health problems like numbness, muscle weakness, and nerve damage. Juvenile disc disorder is rare but is a condition that requires immediate ongoing medical attention to make sure young adults and juveniles protect long-term spinal health. Adolescents with consistent back pain need to be thoroughly examined by a chiropractor. The value of an accurate diagnosis when it comes to developing and administering advanced treatment could be vital.
Cause For Concern
The disorder occurs when parts of the vertebrae known as endplates become too weak to withstand the spinal pressure inside the disc. The endplates are the top and bottom areas of the vertebrae that attach to the cartilage disc between each vertebra.
When the endplates become weak, segments of the tough cartilage can protrude into the endplate, and into the vertebra. These protrusions are called Schmorl�s nodes and can contribute to the pain.
Age-related wear and tear spinal conditions should not be present in kids and young adults. If there are persistent spinal issues and back pain there could be undiagnosed problem/s. Potential symptoms can include:
Continued pain throughout the spine/back
Sitting, standing, or laying down causes an aching back
Transitioning from walking to running or vice versa causes pain
Bending, lifting non-heavy objects causes aching and pain
Stretching the arms over the head causes aches and pain
Posture problems to compensate for the back discomfort and pain
Sleep problems
Disc Disorder Management
Because the disorder primarily affects the vertebral discs, chiropractic pain management is focused on reducing the pressure and strain on the discs. However, it does not mean that activity is to be restricted. Managing the condition focuses on improving strength and flexibility.
Foundation strengthening/support is where a chiropractor could begin. This strengthens the hips, thighs, and hamstrings promoting stabilization of the posterior chain. This leads to body core stability and less spinal concussion during activity/s. Stretching exercises help maintain flexibility for dynamic movements like twisting and bending.
Aerobic activity is also recommended to keep the condition in check. The heart-pumping circulates more blood throughout the body ensuring that the inflamed or injured areas get plenty of oxygenated blood, specifically the spine. Body mechanics also play a role as a proper heel striking when walking or running.
Proper body mechanics lessens the impact of the aerobics on the spine and promotes overall wellness. Chiropractic spinal adjustments and realignment could also be part of a management treatment plan. High-velocity low amplitude adjustments help to reset the vertebrae and takes the stress off of discs.
Prevention
Addressing any disc disorder early is the first step to prevent a lifetime of back pain problems. Seeking a chiropractic assessment as soon as possible will help identify any spinal misalignments or underlying conditions that mimick back pain symptoms/conditions. A chiropractor will develop a customized treatment/management plan to fit an individual’s needs.
Lower Back Pain Chiropractic Care
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Heithoff, K B et al. �Juvenile discogenic disease.��Spine�vol. 19,3 (1994): 335-40. doi:10.1097/00007632-199402000-00014
There is a multitude of chiropractic techniques for spinal alignment. They are used by chiropractors all over the world. All chiropractors have their favorite and specific techniques that they utilize. Depending on how long they have been practicing they can have five to ten different approaches or more refined techniques from years of experience.
The focus of these chiropractic techniques is to get the body back to optimal health and allow the body to heal itself naturally. As the body gets restored joint function is enhanced, muscle tension is released, and inflammation and pain are alleviated.
Various approaches use a form of force, hence the manipulation of the spine. The chiropractic adjustment technique that is the most common is spinal manipulation. It can also be called the diversified technique or HVLA – high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust.
However, chiropractic techniques are continually evolving. This comes from creating variations on existing techniques, a combination of techniques, or the chiropractor needs to adjust/tweak their own specific technique/s because they begin to suffer overuse injury/s from the constant adjusting, pushing, thrusting motions. Most techniques are named after the chiropractor that developed the method. These are the most common spinal manipulation techniques currently in use.
Manipulation Techniques
Chiropractic adapts to the condition/s and specific needs of each individual. Treatment plans can involve a forceful approach and a gentler force technique. This could happen during the same visit or the treatment plan could be half forceful adjustments, that could range from 6 to 10 visits, with the final visits using the gentle approach.
Spinal Manipulation
This is the High-Velocity Low-Amplitude Thrust technique. The most frequently used chiropractic technique. This is the manipulation that most are familiar with because of the audible pop that results. This is from the chiropractor’s hands applying a controlled quick forceful thrust to the spine while the body is positioned in a specific way.
Spinal Mobilization
This is the Low-Force/Gentle Chiropractic Technique. These techniques are for individuals that require a gentler approach. The technique is known as spinal mobilization. This approach could be utilized due to:
Underlying conditions like Osteoporosis for example
Some chiropractors prefer and/or specialize in mild spinal mobilization techniques. These are techniques that do not involve twisting the body or using forceful thrusts. Along with spinal mobilization, chiropractors often employ complementary therapy, as part of an overall treatment plan. This could be:
Ice
Heat
Physical therapy
Electric stimulation
Ultrasound
Individuals need to discuss symptoms and preferences with the chiropractor. It is their role to perform a thorough examination to determine the most optimal treatment plan satisfactory to the patient. Chiropractors are not the only health care providers who utilize spinal manipulation for back pain. Osteopathic physicians can also provide types of spinal adjustments. Physical and massage therapists often work with chiropractors with continued treatment. They are fully trained in providing spinal therapy as well.
Pregnancy Lower Back Pain Chiropractic Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Thelumbosacral joint is the first place chiropractors start their investigation with individuals presenting with low back pain and possible sciatica. Because of the importance of the sciatic nerve, almost any lumbar condition has the potential to disturb the nerve that can lead to chronic nerve pain. For many low back conditions, the best way to start is from the bottom and work up.
Starting at the lumbosacral joint L5-S1, the chiropractor will palpate and massage the area. This is because the lumbosacral joint is a central nerve center with all kinds of possible sciatic nerve interference because of the proximity to the various nerve bundles and vertebral discs.
When sciatic nerve issues begin to develop, often the problem will be in this region of the spine. Beginning at the lumbosacral joint can generate vast insight into the root cause of radiating pain in the lower back and legs.
The Lumbosacral Joint
This pain typically presents when the nerve is inflamed, compressed, or irritated. Numbness or chronic weakness can also happen in the lower extremities and can cause unbearable discomfort. Some of the reasons that make the joint a prime suspect for sciatic pain include:
The L5 vertebrae are vulnerable to slipping forward over the connecting S1 vertebrae. The sciatic nerve goes through this area, leaving it open to compression.
A disc herniation and/or inflammation can also stress the sciatic nerves.
Deterioration of the lumbosacral facet joints is common with older individuals. This can lead to nerve compression and sciatic nerve irritation.
Piriformis syndrome can affect the area around the lumbosacral joint, causing nerve compression and inflammation.
The lumbosacral joint is frequently used making it a consistently stressed joint. Overuse, poor posture, and improper body mechanics affect this region of the lumbar spine. And, because of the closeness to the sciatic nerve, it is commonly affected.
Other Spinal Conditions
The lumbosacral joint also experiences problems that stem from chronic conditions, which can involve some form of sciatic pain as a symptom. They include:
Degenerative disc disease
Lumbar stenosis
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
Spondylolisthesis
Sciatica is a condition that represents a series of symptoms. But it is often a symptom of other condition/s that affect the sciatic nerve. If spinal conditions progress, it can bring undue stress and strain to the lumbosacral joint and the sciatic nerve.
Knowing Where To Begin
The key to a proper and successful treatment plan is an accurate diagnosis. Knowing and understanding the symptoms, spinal conditions, and having an idea of the origin of these types of pain promotes a rapid diagnosis. Our chiropractic and physical therapy team thoroughly investigate the pain source using imaging, palpation, observation, and other diagnostic tools to help get individuals back on track and healthy.
Facet Syndrome Chiropractic Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Grgi?, Vjekoslav. �Lumbosakralni fasetni sindrom: funkcijski i organski poreme?aji lumbosakralnih fasetnih zglobova� [Lumbosacral facet syndrome: functional and organic disorders of lumbosacral facet joints].�Lijecnicki vjesnik�vol. 133,9-10 (2011): 330-6.
Chiari malformation is a condition that causes brain tissue to extend out and settle into the spinal canal. It protrudes out where the skull and neck meet. It occurs because part of the skull is too small or shaped in a unique way that allows part of the brain to settle into the foramen magnum. The foramen magnum is a large opening at the bottom of the skull. The brain’s nerves go through into the spinal canal and join the spinal cord. However, only the nerves should be present. The brain should not be able to push/press/leak through. When it does this is Chiari malformation.
Causes
Chiari malformation can be caused by structural problem/s with the:
Brain
Skull
Spinal canal
Structural conditions/issues can be present at birth, which are congenital defects. This is also called primary Chiari malformation and is not caused by any other condition. Secondary Chiari malformations are caused by something else, most often through surgery. This is extremely rare, but it is possible to develop after having surgery to remove a tumor in the skull or neck region. A surgeon could have removed too much bone while removing the tumor. This allowed the brain to settle into the open space.
Types
There are 4 types and are categorized by how much brain tissue protrudes into the spinal canal.
Type I
This is the adult version and is also the most common.
It is usually first noticed and discovered from an examination for something else. Most individuals don’t realize that they have Chiari malformation unless the symptoms are severe. With Type I a part of the brain, specifically the cerebellar tonsils settle into the foramen magnum.
Type II
Type II is also known as Arnold-Chiari malformation. This is the pediatric version. Symptoms are more severe with Type II because more brain tissue comes through. With this type, the cerebellar tonsils and some of the brainstem protrude. With Type II myelomeningocele, which is a form of spina bifida is a concern. What happens is the vertebrae and spinal canal do not close correctly before birth, so the spinal cord has no protection.
Type III
This type also affects children and is more severe than types 1 or 2. Here a significant portion of the brain, including the cerebellum and the brainstem protrude all the way through the foramen into the spinal canal.
The symptoms vary based on the type and severity. The most common symptom is a headache. Individuals with a Chiari malformation usually have headaches in the occipital region of the brain. This is the back of the head, right where the skull joins the cervical spine/neck. The headaches can be aggravated being in certain positions and actions, tilting the head back, and coughing. Typical symptoms include:
However, Chiari malformation can interrupt the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid is necessary to protect the brain and spinal cord. If the normal flow is disrupted it becomes more difficult for the brain and spinal cord to send/receive nerve messages. The pressure built up can also cause nerve issues/problems. For some individuals, symptoms can come and go. This depends on how much cerebrospinal fluid has built up. Individuals with Type I sometimes don’t have any symptoms. It all depends on the severity.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is done with a magnetic resonance imaging test or MRI. The MRI will show the various parts of the brain, skull, spinal cord, and spinal canal. They will be able to see abnormalities that could point to Chiari malformation.
Treatment
The recommended treatment depends on the severity. If pain is presenting a doctor could recommend pain medications to help manage the pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory meds could also be recommended to reduce inflammation. Analgesics or pain killers can be recommended. Often both non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and analgesics are available in over-the-counter and prescription. The doctor will figure out the best medication treatment plan.
Surgery can be used to relieve symptoms and is the only way to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. The goal is to stop the malformation from worsening. Surgeons use a posterior fossa decompression procedure. The surgeon removes part of the skull to make more room for the brain to sit in. This takes the pressure off the brain and spinal cord, and should reduce the neurological symptoms and problems. The surgeon may increase the size of the dura or the sac around the brain.
Laminectomies at C1 and C2, which are the first and second levels of the neck and are utilized to make more room for the brain. The surgeon will place a patch that is made from animal or synthetic tissue that will grow into the dura. The patch makes the dura bigger, which allows more room for the brain. Not all surgeries involve the dural patch.
Neck Pain Chiropractic Care
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
The spinal muscles and ligaments work in conjunction to help support the spine, maintain an upright posture, and control movements during activity and rest. The muscles are named based on shape, location, or a combination. Further categorization factors include muscle functions like flexion, extension, or rotation. Skeletal muscle is a form of striated muscle tissue that is voluntarily controlled by the somatic nervous system. Striated means it is striped in appearance. Most skeletal muscles are attached to bones by collagen fibers known as tendons.
Vertebral Muscle Types
Location
Forward flexors
Anterior
Lateral flexors
Lateral
Rotators
Lateral
Extensors
Posterior
It has the fastest contraction rate of all muscles. Before muscle/s contract, a nerve impulse starts in the brain and runs through the spinal cord to the muscle. For the muscles to contract and work properly they need energy/fuel. Mitochondria produce Adenosine triphosphate chemical cells that are needed for energy. Adenosine triphosphate is made as the mitochondria burn glucose or sugar. The blood vessels deliver the oxygen and nutrients that the mitochondria need to maintain a steady supply of adenosine triphosphate.
The Posterior Cervical and Upper Thoracic Spinal Muscles
Semispinalis Capitus – controls the head rotation and backward pulls
Iliocostalis Cervicis – extends the cervical vertebrae
The Longissimus Cervicus – extends the cervical vertebrae
Longissimus Capitus – controls the head’s rotation and backward pulls
Longissimus Thoracis – controls the extension/lateral flexion of the vertebral column and rib rotation
Iliocostalis Thoracis – controls the extension/lateral flexion of the vertebral column and rib rotation
Semispinalis Thoracis – extends and rotates the vertebral column
Muscles of the Spinal Column
Cervical muscles
Cervical Muscles
Function
Nerve
Sternocleidomastoid
Extends and rotates the head and flexes the vertebral column
C2, C3
Scalenus
Flexes and rotates the neck
Lower cervical
Spinalis Cervicis
Extends and rotates the head
Middle/lower cervical
Spinalis Capitus
Extends and rotates the head
Middle/lower cervical
Semispinalis Cervicis
Extends and rotates the vertebral column
Middle/lower cervical
Semispinalis Capitus
Rotates the head and pulls backward
C1-C5
Splenius Cervicis
Extends the vertebral column
Middle/lower cervical
Longus Colli Cervicis
Flexes the cervical vertebrae
C2-C7
Longus Capitus
Flexes the head
C1-C3
Rectus Capitus Anterior
Flexes the head
C2, C3
Rectus Capitus Lateralis
Bends the head laterally
C2, C3
Iliocostalis Cervicis
Extends the cervical vertebrae
Middle/lower cervical
Longissimus Cervicis
Extends the cervical vertebrae
Middle/lower cervical
Longissimus Capitus
Rotates the head and pulls backward
Middle/lower cervical
Rectus Capitus Posterior Major
Extends and rotates the head
Suboccipital
Rectus Capitus Posterior Minor
Extends the head
Suboccipital
Obliquus Capitus Inferior
Rotates the atlas
Suboccipital
Obliquus Capitus Superior
Extends and bends the head laterally
Suboccipital
Thoracic Muscles
Thoracic muscles
Function
Nerve
Longissimus Thoracis
Extension, lateral flexion of the vertebral column, and rib rotation
Perimysium is the sheath that groups the muscle fibers into bundles.
Endomysium is another type of connective tissue that sheaths each muscle fiber.
The cause of back pain and spinal muscle spasm/s can be caused by overuse, automobile accident, personal, work, or sports injury. The root cause of muscle spasm/s is usually a consequence of an injury to a structure within the lumbar spine. If there have been one or more episodes of muscle spasm in the low back, chances are it will re-occur. The muscles in the low back work together with the abdominal muscles. The spinal muscles add stability by maintaining an erect spine and maintain balance.
Back Pain Specialist
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
A spinal tumor is an uncommon cause of back pain. They rarely occur and can be either benign or malignant. Some tumors can metastasize or spread out to other parts of the body. This is done through the arteries, veins, the lymphatic system, and directly depending on the location.
A tumor of the breast, prostate, lung, and kidney can metastasize into the spine increasing the risk of spinal compression. This could lead to neurologic dysfunction and paralysis. Many individuals present with back pain as the key symptom. The pain can worsen at night and have no relation to certain activities. Other symptoms include:
Aneurysmal bone cysts or ABCs usually cause pain and swelling. They can be large and typically affect children and adolescents.
Eosinophilic Granuloma
This type of spinal tumor usually develops in the vertebral bodies of children and adolescents. If the tumor is systemic it is called histiocytosis X. However, these tumors rarely lead to vertebral collapse and paraparesis. And also rarely but on occasion, they can heal spontaneously on their own.
Giant Cell Tumor
This type of spinal tumor affects children, adolescents, and young adults. They can be found around the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar segments of the spine, but are more common in the sacrum region.
Hemangioma
Hemangiomas develop most often in the thoracic or middle back. These affect adults and are known to be vascular masses that are progressive and can cause vertebral collapse and slight paralysis.
Osteoblastoma
These tumors can be large, aggressive, and painful. They affect children and adolescents. They can sometimes cause spinal deformity and paralysis.
Osteochondroma
This a slow-growing spinal tumor that comes from cartilage and usually affects adolescents. It is uncommon and typically found in the posterior or rear of the spine.
Osteoid Osteoma
A very small bone tumor that is less than 2 cm. It typically affects adolescents. It is known to cause night pain and can result in spinal deformity.
Malignant – Cancerous
Chordoma
This is typically seen in adults. About 50% involves the sacrum, but it can affect other regions of the spine. These tumors usually require aggressive treatment.
Chondrosarcoma
This tumor affects the spinal cartilage in middle-aged adults. It grows slowly but can be dangerous. Aggressive medical treatment is required.
Ewing/Ewing’s Sarcoma
An aggressive spinal tumor that affects adolescents and young adults. In certain cases, it can metastasize.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma can present in one or more vertebral bodies. It affects middle-aged and older adults. The lymphatic system can sometimes be involved.
Osteosarcoma
This is a bone cancer that develops in adolescents and middle-aged adults. It can metastasize and require aggressive medical treatment.
Plasmacytoma
Plasmacytoma typically presents in middle-aged and older adults. They usually present in the pedicle and vertebral body and can cause paraparesis.
Back pain does not always mean that there is a tumor present. But if back pain does not resolve or if neurologic symptom/s are experienced, early medical intervention/treatment is definitely warranted. A primary spinal tumor or those that originate in the spine are uncommon. However, metastatic spinal tumors are.
Spinal tumors are not a common cause of back pain, but if there is pain whose cause cannot be identified and continues with no change, it could be an indicator of something more going on. Persistent pain, specifically if it is not brought on with activity or if it worsens at night, could be a potential red flag needing further examination by x-ray, CT, or MRI. Metastatic tumors, that spread from another area such as the lung, breast, colon, and prostate are a more common type of spinal tumor. Individuals with a family history of cancer that develop back pain out of nowhere should be examined to exclude a spinal tumor.
Neck and Low Back Pain Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
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