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Medical Media Images has created a new Color X-Ray featuring Shoulder Joint Degeneration. This Image shows Narrowing and Degeneration of a Shoulder Joint.
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Medical Media Images presents a Patient Information Article: Lumbar Spondylolisthesis (Abnormal Shift between the Low Back Vertebrae) - Part II
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Lumbar Spondylolisthesis - Part - II
(Abnormal Shift between the Low-Back Vertebrae)
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What Symptoms can a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis cause?
Lumbar Spondylolisthesis - Part - II
(Abnormal Shift between the Low-Back Vertebrae)
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What Symptoms can a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis cause?
Here are some of the common symptoms
from this condition:
a. Low back pain and stiffness
b. Low back spasms
c. Shooting pain into the legs
d. Leg numbness and tingling
e. Leg weakness
f. A slipping or unstable feeling in the
low back
g. Pain when changing from a sitting to
standing position
h. Pain when bending forward and
backward
How is a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis diagnosed?
Spine specialists use information from the patient history, physical examination and special tests to make this diagnosis:
1. History
Patients often complain about frequent episodes of low-back pain, especially after bending forward and backward. Some patients have feelings of instability in the spine.
2. Physical Examination
Here are some physical examination techniques used by doctors to diagnose a spondylolisthesis:
1. Touch and pressure on the spine (palpation)
2. Testing the spine’s motion (range of motion exam)
3. Gait testing
4. Sensation (sensory) testing in the legs
5. Strength (motor) testing in the legs
6. Reflex testing in the legs
7. Straight Leg Raising test (Lesague’s sign)
3. Imaging
Spine imaging is usually the best way
to diagnose a lumbar spondylolisthesis.
a. X-Rays
X-Rays of the spine will
show the bone anatomy of the spine. A shift between the vertebrae in a
spondylolisthesis can be easily seen on an X-Ray from the side (lateral).
Bending films, where X-Rays are taken
with the patient bending forward (flexion) and backward (extension) can show if
the spine is unstable and shifts back and forth.
This Color X-Ray Image shows the Lumbar Spine (low back) from the side. The front of the Spine is to the left. The red dotted lines show a shift between the Vertebrae. This is called a "Spondylolisthesis".
b. CT-Scans
A CT-scan shows bone
anatomy in more detail than an X-Ray.
The spondylolisthesis
shift can be clearly seen on a CT Scan. However since a X-Ray will show this as
well, CT Scans are rarely necessary to make the diagnosis of a
spondylolisthesis. The high dose of radiation also has to be taken into
account.
c. MRI Scans
MRI scans can show a
spondylolisthesis. They are often taken to see what kind of a problem the
spondylolisthesis is causing inside the spine. The discs, spinal nerves, spinal
cord can all be seen on an MRI. The compression of the spinal nerve in
the nerve channels can be clearly seen.
This Color MRI Image shows the shift between two Lumbar (low back) Vertebrae.
What are the Treatments for a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?
1. Non-Surgical Care
Here are some common
treatments available for patients not requiring surgery:
a. Alternative Health Care
Alternative Health care
options can often complement conventional medical care. Massage Therapy,
Acupuncture, Meditation exercises and Herbal Remedies can all help with the
pain from this condition. Massage therapy can help with the muscle part of the
painful process from a spondylolisthesis.
b. Nutrition and Weight Loss
Proper nutrition and
weight loss can have a positive impact on many spine conditions. Excess weight
on the spine often contributes to the symptoms of pain and spasms (Spine and
Obesity).
c. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care
including manipulation and adjustments of the spine can help with the pain and
spasms from this condition.
d. Spine Exercises
Spine exercises can help
with the muscle pain and tightness from this condition. Exercise also increases
the amount of oxygen delivered to the spine which can help with healing.
Pilates, Yoga and T’ai Chi can help maintain the spine’s flexibility.
e. Physical Therapy (PT)
PT has many modalities to
offer for this condition. They can range from Manual Therapy and Exercises to Traction
and Ultrasound Treatments. PT usually focuses on core strengthening techniques
of the spine. Supporting and conditioning the core muscles of the spine can add
stability and improve the symptoms.
f. Self Help Tools
Self Help Tools are items
which can be purchased to help with back pain. They range from Back Braces to Back
Mattresses and Ergonomic Devices such as chairs and computer accessories. A
spinal brace can be very useful in adding stability for patients who have an
unstable spine where there is frequent shifting between the Vertebrae.
g. Spine Medications
Here are some of the
common groups of medications which are available for this condition:
Non-Steroidal
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS)
Muscle Relaxants
Pain Killers
Nerve pain medications
Antidepressants
h. Injections
Here are some possible spinal
injections which can help with the pain from a lumbar spondylolisthesis:
1. Lumbar Interlaminar Epidural Steroid
Injection
2. Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural
Steroid Injection
3. Lumbar Nerve Root Block
4. Lumbar Facet Joint Injection
5. Lumbar Medial Branch Block
6. Lumbar Facet Joint Radiofrequency
Rhizotomy
7. Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection
2. Surgical Care
Surgery for this
condition is usually done for severe back pain or neurological problems from
spinal nerve compression. Here are some possible surgical options:
1. Lumbar
Laminectomy Decompression
2. Lumbar Fusion
3. Lumbar Laminotomy and Foraminotomy
General Disclaimer
Medical Media Images does NOT dispense medical or legal advice. Our images, text and any content cannot be used for diagnosis or treatment of a medical condition. All Images and content are for information purposes only. You must consult with your physician if you need medical advice. Medical Media Images is not a substitute for medical advice.
New Interactive Color MRI: Prestige Cervical Disc Replacement in Motion
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Medical Media Images is proud to offer a new Color X-Ray Image: Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement (Prestige, Medtronic) which shows the Device's Motion in Flexion/Extension (forward and backward movement) of the Neck.
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Medical Media Images is proud to offer a new Color X-Ray Image: Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement (Prestige, Medtronic) which shows the Device's Motion in Flexion/Extension (forward and backward movement) of the Neck.
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Friday, December 27, 2013
Medical Media Images presents a Patient Information Article: Lumbar Spondylolisthesis (Abnormal Shift between the Low Back Vertebrae) - Part I
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Find more Color X-Ray and Color MRI Images at www.medicalmediaimages.com!
Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
(Abnormal Shift between the Low Back Vertebrae)
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What does "Lumbar Spondylolisthesis" mean?
What is a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?
Stay tuned for Part - II of our Patient Education series on Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
Find more Color X-Ray and Color MRI Images at www.medicalmediaimages.com!
Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
(Abnormal Shift between the Low Back Vertebrae)
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What does "Lumbar Spondylolisthesis" mean?
The word “Lumbar spondylolisthesis”
is a combination of the Greek words “spondylos”, meaning “spine”, and
“listhesis” meaning “slippage”. Altogether Lumbar Spondylolisthesis means a Slippage between the Vertebrae.
One vertebra slips forward or
backward on another. This slippage can cause nerve compression at that segment
of the spine. Patients with this condition may experience a combination of back
pain and leg pain.
Does the Spine shift back and forth in a Spondylolisthesis?
The condition of a spondylolisthesis can be divided into those which are stable versus unstable. In an unstable condition, the vertebrae can shift back and forth when the spine moves or with weight-bearing. Patients with an unstable Spondylolisthesis are more likely to have symptoms. Overall only a fraction of the patients who have a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis will be unstable.
What happens when the Vertebrae shift in a Spondylolisthesis?
When vertebrae shift on each other,
several things can happen in the spine:
1. The discs are stressed since they are
attached at the top and bottom sides of the vertebrae which shift. This can
cause low-back pain, or even a disc herniation.
2. The facet joints in the back of the
spine can be stressed and pulled apart. This can cause facet joint pain.
3. The foramen through which the spinal
nerve travels often gets smaller in a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis. This can trap
the spinal nerve and cause leg pain (sciatica).
What are the different types of Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?
1. Congenital Spondylolisthesis
These patients will be
born with the condition. This condition is also called a “dysplastic
spondylolisthesis”. Children are born with a spinal malformation which causes a
shift between the vertebrae. This is a rare condition.
2. Isthmic Spondylolisthesis
This type of
spondylolisthesis occurs as a result of a spondylolysis (link) defect. This is
the most common form of spondylolisthesis. It occurs in approximately 5-7% of
the population.
3. Degenerative Spondylolisthesis
This type develops as
part of an advanced degenerative process of the spine. Typically, the facet
joints on the back of the spine become arthritic and form large bone spurs.
These bone spurs then begin to push the vertebra forward, causing the shift.
4. Traumatic
Due to severe spine
trauma. Part of the vertebra can be pushed forward due to the force on the
spine.
5. Pathological
Due to a spine cancer
which weakens the vertebra.
How is the Severity of a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis determined?
The severity of a Spondylolisthesis is determined by the
amount of slippage between the vertebrae (Meyerding grading system):
Grade I: The shift is 0-25% of one vertebra on another
Grade II: The shift is 25-50% of one vertebra on another
Grade III: The shift is 50-75% of one vertebra on another
Grade IV: The shift is 75%-100% of one vertebra on another
A slippage of over 100% means that one vertebra is now
completely in front of another. This condition has its own name,
spondyloptosis.
General Disclaimer
Medical Media Images does NOT dispense medical or legal advice. Our images, text and any content cannot be used for diagnosis or treatment of a medical condition. All Images and content are for information purposes only. You must consult with your physician if you need medical advice. Medical Media Images is not a substitute for medical advice.
New Interactive Image: Color MRI showing Cervical Spinal Stenosis (Narrowing of the Nerve Channel in the Neck)
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Medical Media Images has created a new Interactive Image: Color Reference MRI demonstrating Cervical Spinal Stenosis. This Image also contains a whole body Reference MRI to orient the viewer.
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Medical Media Images has created a new Interactive Image: Color Reference MRI demonstrating Cervical Spinal Stenosis. This Image also contains a whole body Reference MRI to orient the viewer.
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Move your mouse cursor over this Image and see it come Alive!
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Interactive Color X-Ray Image of Degenerated Knee Joints!
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Medical Media Images presents a new Interactive Image: Color X-Ray of Degenerated Knee Joints.
This Interactive Image showcases the disease of Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) of the Knee. The Interactive Image tags explain the relevant Anatomy.
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Medical Media Images presents a new Interactive Image: Color X-Ray of Degenerated Knee Joints.
This Interactive Image showcases the disease of Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) of the Knee. The Interactive Image tags explain the relevant Anatomy.
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New Color X-Ray showing Knee Joint Degeneration!
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Medical Media Images has created a new Color X-Ray Image featuring Knee Joint Degeneration. This Image shows the narrowed knee due to a loss of cartilage. Arrows point to the narrowed parts of the knee joint. This Image allows anyone to know at a glance what a degenerated knee joints looks like.
Medical Media Images has created a new Color X-Ray Image featuring Knee Joint Degeneration. This Image shows the narrowed knee due to a loss of cartilage. Arrows point to the narrowed parts of the knee joint. This Image allows anyone to know at a glance what a degenerated knee joints looks like.
Color X-Ray Image of Degenerated Knee Joints (arrows)
Interactive Color MRI: Cervical Disc Degeneration
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Medical Media Images has created a new Interactive Color MRI Image showcasing Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease. A Reference Color MRI Image is included to orient the viewer to the whole body. The Interactive Image tags explain the relevant Anatomy with text.
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Medical Media Images has created a new Interactive Color MRI Image showcasing Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease. A Reference Color MRI Image is included to orient the viewer to the whole body. The Interactive Image tags explain the relevant Anatomy with text.
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New Color MRI Image featuring Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease (Disc Degeneration in the Neck).
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Medical Media Images has produced a new Reference Color MRI Image showcasing Cervical Disc Degeneration. This Image also shows a Reference to the whole body to orient the viewer easily.
This Image shows Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) at the C6/7 Disc.
Medical Media Images has produced a new Reference Color MRI Image showcasing Cervical Disc Degeneration. This Image also shows a Reference to the whole body to orient the viewer easily.
This Image shows Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) at the C6/7 Disc.
New Color MRI Image: Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease (Degeneration of the Disc in the low Back)
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Medical Media Images has created a new Color MRI Images showcasing Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD). This Image shows a Reference to the whole body to allow the viewer to understand the relationship to the body. Annotations are provided for the most pertinent part of the Anatomy.
This image shows Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) at the lowest Disc of the Spine. The Vertebrae of the low back are numbered.
Medical Media Images has created a new Color MRI Images showcasing Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD). This Image shows a Reference to the whole body to allow the viewer to understand the relationship to the body. Annotations are provided for the most pertinent part of the Anatomy.
This image shows Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) at the lowest Disc of the Spine. The Vertebrae of the low back are numbered.
Monday, December 23, 2013
Lumbar Spondylolisthesis as an Interactive Color MRI created by MMI
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Medical Media Images presents a new Interactive Color MRI Image demonstrating a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis (shift between the Vertebrae). The whole body Reference MRI provides a perspective to the whole body. The Interactive Image tags explain the condition and other Anatomy with text.
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Medical Media Images presents a new Interactive Color MRI Image demonstrating a Lumbar Spondylolisthesis (shift between the Vertebrae). The whole body Reference MRI provides a perspective to the whole body. The Interactive Image tags explain the condition and other Anatomy with text.
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Interactive Color MRI of a Cervical (Neck) Disc Herniation Created!
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Medical Media Images has created a new Interactive Image. This Image showcases Disc Herniations in the Cervical Spine (neck). The large whole body Reference MRI provides perspective. The Interactive Image tags explain the Disc Herniation and other relevant Anatomy with Text.
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Medical Media Images has created a new Interactive Image. This Image showcases Disc Herniations in the Cervical Spine (neck). The large whole body Reference MRI provides perspective. The Interactive Image tags explain the Disc Herniation and other relevant Anatomy with Text.
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Sunday, December 22, 2013
Interactive Lumbar Kyphoplasty Color MRI Image created
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Medical Media Images has created a new Interactive Reference style Color MRI Image featuring a Kyphoplasty Procedure. This Image allows the viewer to understand the relationship of the main Image to the rest of the body by providing a whole body Color MRI as a reference. The Interactive Image tags display text to explain the main parts of the Anatomy and Kyphoplasty Devices.
The Kyphoplasty balloon is shown inflated inside a L-3 Compression Fracture. This Image is a powerful visual educational and learning tool.
Medical Media Images has created a new Interactive Reference style Color MRI Image featuring a Kyphoplasty Procedure. This Image allows the viewer to understand the relationship of the main Image to the rest of the body by providing a whole body Color MRI as a reference. The Interactive Image tags display text to explain the main parts of the Anatomy and Kyphoplasty Devices.
The Kyphoplasty balloon is shown inflated inside a L-3 Compression Fracture. This Image is a powerful visual educational and learning tool.
Interactive Lumbar Compression Fracture Color MRI featured.
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Medical Media Images is showcasing a new Interactive Color MRI Image. This Image demonstrates a Lumbar Compression Fracture. The Reference MRI shows the area of the Body the main Image pertains to. The Interactive Image tags bring the Image to life. Each tag explains a particular part of the Image with rich text, allowing the viewer to learn all about the Image.
Enjoy learning from this Image.
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Medical Media Images is showcasing a new Interactive Color MRI Image. This Image demonstrates a Lumbar Compression Fracture. The Reference MRI shows the area of the Body the main Image pertains to. The Interactive Image tags bring the Image to life. Each tag explains a particular part of the Image with rich text, allowing the viewer to learn all about the Image.
Enjoy learning from this Image.
If you move your mouse cursor over the Image, Interactive Image tags come alive. Each tag explains a relevant part of the Image.
Color MRI Lumbar Compression Fracture with whole body Reference MRI
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Medical Media Images has created a new Reference Color MRI Image showcasing a Lumbar Compression Fracture. This image is meant to educate audiences ranging from the public to specific patient groups and medical audiences. The Reference MRI provides an easy understanding of the part of the body shown in the main Image.
This Reference MRI shows a Lumbar Compression Fracture in Red.
Medical Media Images has created a new Reference Color MRI Image showcasing a Lumbar Compression Fracture. This image is meant to educate audiences ranging from the public to specific patient groups and medical audiences. The Reference MRI provides an easy understanding of the part of the body shown in the main Image.
This Reference MRI shows a Lumbar Compression Fracture in Red.
Prestige Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement Color X-Ray showing the Device in Extension
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Medical Media Images presents a Color X-Ray featuring a Prestige Disc Replacement Device in Extension. This image showcases the Prestige's ability to provide motion in extension. Patients and Health Care Professionals can now appreciate how an Artificial Disc Replacement can provide motion. The black dotted lines accentuate the visual information provided.
Medical Media Images presents a Color X-Ray featuring a Prestige Disc Replacement Device in Extension. This image showcases the Prestige's ability to provide motion in extension. Patients and Health Care Professionals can now appreciate how an Artificial Disc Replacement can provide motion. The black dotted lines accentuate the visual information provided.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Degenerative Hip Joint Disease: A new Reference Color X-Ray created!
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Medical Media Images has created a new Color X-Ray featuring Degenerative Hip Joint Disease. This Reference style Image shows a whole body reference Color X-Ray to show where in the body the main Image is taken from. This fosters an immediate understanding of the part of the body the X-Ray pertains to. The main Image shows a degenerated Hip Joint.
Medical Media Images has created a new Color X-Ray featuring Degenerative Hip Joint Disease. This Reference style Image shows a whole body reference Color X-Ray to show where in the body the main Image is taken from. This fosters an immediate understanding of the part of the body the X-Ray pertains to. The main Image shows a degenerated Hip Joint.
New Reference Color X-Ray created: Atelectasis
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Medical Media Images has created a new Reference Image: Atelectasis. This Image shows a whole body X-Ray to provide a perspective as to what are of the body the main Image pertains to. The main Image is a Chest X-Ray which shows Right Lung Atelectasis. This condition represents a partial collapse of a lung segment often due to hypoventilation (lack of full respiratory effort). This condition is often seen following surgery.
Medical Media Images has created a new Reference Image: Atelectasis. This Image shows a whole body X-Ray to provide a perspective as to what are of the body the main Image pertains to. The main Image is a Chest X-Ray which shows Right Lung Atelectasis. This condition represents a partial collapse of a lung segment often due to hypoventilation (lack of full respiratory effort). This condition is often seen following surgery.
MMI Creates New Reference Color X-Ray: Lumbar Alignment
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Medical Media Images creates new Image: A Reference Color X-Ray showing the Lumbar Spine Alignment. This Image consists of a whole body X-Ray as a Reference and features the main Image as a "cut-out".
Medical Media Images creates new Image: A Reference Color X-Ray showing the Lumbar Spine Alignment. This Image consists of a whole body X-Ray as a Reference and features the main Image as a "cut-out".
A MMI Reference Color X-Ray Image showing Lumbar Alignment
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Patient Education Article: Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction - Part II
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Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction - Part II
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b. Cat Scan
CT-Scans can show the anatomy of the sacroiliac joint very clearly and with better quality than an X-Ray. However, similar to X-Rays it may not show a problem until it is advanced. The CT scan also does not show inflammation in the joint.
c. MRI Scan
MRI scans can show swelling and inflammation in the joint when special MRI images are taken. These are called STIR (Short Tau Inversion Recovery) images and those taken with intravenous contrast (Gadolinium). Both can show inflammation in the Sacroiliac Joint.
d. Nuclear Bone Scan
A nuclear bone scan can show severe inflammation in the form of activity in the joint. However, bone scans are usually not taken for sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
e. Diagnostic Injection
To diagnose a sacroiliac joint dysfunction or sacroiliitis, a doctor can inject the joint with the help of an X-Ray machine. Often a local anesthetic combined with an anti-inflammatory medication such as a steroid is injected. The patient is then evaluated for pain relief.
f. Laboratory Tests
Sometimes doctors will use lab tests to find a cause of sacroiliitis. Here are some possible examples:
- Complete Blood Count with differential (CBC with Diff):
This is a blood test which looks for elevated White Blood Cells and other more specialized cells (i.e. Neutrophils) which can be elevated in infection.
- Sedimentation Rate (Sed. Rate):
This blood test looks for severe inflammation.
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP):
This test also looks for severe inflammation.
How is Sacroiliac Joint Disease Treated?
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
a. Alternative Health Care
Alternative Health care options can often complement conventional medical care. Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Meditation exercises and Herbal Remedies can all help with the pain from this condition.
b. Nutrition and Weight Loss
Proper nutrition and weight loss can have a positive impact on many spine conditions. Excess weight on the spine often contributes to the symptoms of pain and spasms (Spine and Obesity).
c. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care including manipulation and adjustments of the spine can help with the pain and spasms from this condition.
d. Spine Exercises
Spine exercises can help with the muscle pain and tightness from this condition. Exercise also increases the amount of oxygen delivered to the spine which can help with healing. Pilates, Yoga and T’ai Chi can help maintain the spine’s flexibility.
e. Physical Therapy (PT)
PT has many modalities to offer for this condition. They can range from Manual Therapy to Exercises and Ultrasound Treatments. Mobilizing the joint and strengthening the muscles around the joint are frequent ways Physical Therapists will treat sacroiliac joint inflammation. Joint mobilization techniques can be manipulation, stretching and exercises.
f. Self Help Tools
Self Help Tools are items which can be purchased to help with back pain. They range from Back Braces to Back Mattresses and Ergonomic Devices such as chairs and computer accessories. A specific Sacroiliac Belt is also available.
g. Spine Medications
i. NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Antiinflammatory Medications)
2. Surgical Treatments
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction - Part II
How do Spine Specialists make the diagnosis of Sacro-iliac Joint
Dysfunction?
Spine specialists use the
information from the patient history, physical examination, and special tests
to make this diagnosis:
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1. History
In severe and acute cases
of sacriliitis, a patient will come to the doctor with fevers and severe pain
in the low back/buttock area. They will often have a strong limp, and very
little mobility of the hip. These patients may have a recent history of
infection.
With the more chronic
type of sacroiliac joint dysfunction, the patient will complain of nagging pain
in the low back/buttock area and have a difficult time with stair climbing or
standing. Some of these patients will have a history of trauma to the pelvis, a
type of arthritis, or previous pregnancy.
2. Physical Examination
Here are some physical examination techniques the doctor might use to help make a diagnosis:
o Looking at the spine and pelvis to look for areas of swelling, redness or asymmetry (inspection)
o Measure the length of each leg
o Look at the height of the top of each hip bone (iliac crest)
o Touch and pressure over the sacroiliac joint (palpation)
o Gaenslen’s test
o FABERE’s test
o Patrick’s test
o Pelvic Rock test
3. Imaging
a. X-Ray
X-Rays will show the sacroiliac
joints. However, they often will not show a problem with the joint until a
sacroiliac joint dysfunction or sacroiliitis is very advanced. It can take 10
years or more for that to be the case.
This Color X-Ray Image shows the Sacroiliac Joints in white. They are located between the Pelvis (Hip Bone) and the Sacrum (Tail Bone).
CT-Scans can show the anatomy of the sacroiliac joint very clearly and with better quality than an X-Ray. However, similar to X-Rays it may not show a problem until it is advanced. The CT scan also does not show inflammation in the joint.
This Image is a Color CT Scan showing the Sacroiliac Joints
MRI scans can show swelling and inflammation in the joint when special MRI images are taken. These are called STIR (Short Tau Inversion Recovery) images and those taken with intravenous contrast (Gadolinium). Both can show inflammation in the Sacroiliac Joint.
d. Nuclear Bone Scan
To diagnose a sacroiliac joint dysfunction or sacroiliitis, a doctor can inject the joint with the help of an X-Ray machine. Often a local anesthetic combined with an anti-inflammatory medication such as a steroid is injected. The patient is then evaluated for pain relief.
f. Laboratory Tests
Sometimes doctors will use lab tests to find a cause of sacroiliitis. Here are some possible examples:
- Complete Blood Count with differential (CBC with Diff):
This is a blood test which looks for elevated White Blood Cells and other more specialized cells (i.e. Neutrophils) which can be elevated in infection.
- Sedimentation Rate (Sed. Rate):
This blood test looks for severe inflammation.
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP):
This test also looks for severe inflammation.
How is Sacroiliac Joint Disease Treated?
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
a. Alternative Health Care
Alternative Health care options can often complement conventional medical care. Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Meditation exercises and Herbal Remedies can all help with the pain from this condition.
b. Nutrition and Weight Loss
Proper nutrition and weight loss can have a positive impact on many spine conditions. Excess weight on the spine often contributes to the symptoms of pain and spasms (Spine and Obesity).
c. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care including manipulation and adjustments of the spine can help with the pain and spasms from this condition.
d. Spine Exercises
Spine exercises can help with the muscle pain and tightness from this condition. Exercise also increases the amount of oxygen delivered to the spine which can help with healing. Pilates, Yoga and T’ai Chi can help maintain the spine’s flexibility.
PT has many modalities to offer for this condition. They can range from Manual Therapy to Exercises and Ultrasound Treatments. Mobilizing the joint and strengthening the muscles around the joint are frequent ways Physical Therapists will treat sacroiliac joint inflammation. Joint mobilization techniques can be manipulation, stretching and exercises.
Self Help Tools are items which can be purchased to help with back pain. They range from Back Braces to Back Mattresses and Ergonomic Devices such as chairs and computer accessories. A specific Sacroiliac Belt is also available.
g. Spine Medications
i. NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Antiinflammatory Medications)
ii.
Steroids
iii.
Pain
Killers
iv.
Muscle
Relaxants
v.
Antidepressants
vi.
Topical
Medications
h. Injections
Here are some commonly offered injections for chronic Sacroilieitis:
o Sacroiliac joint injection
o Sacroiliac Joint Radiofrequency Ablation
In very severe and chronic cases of a sacroiliac joint dysfunction
or sacroiliitis, surgery can be performed. The surgery relies on
permanently immobilizing the joint. There are sacroliliac joint fusion
techniques available:
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