Spine Conditions We Assess
Spinal pain can arise from a number of different structures. Not all back pain is the same, and accurate identification of the likely source of symptoms helps guide appropriate management.
Our clinical focus includes spinal conditions involving discs, nerve irritation and spinal stability. This page provides an overview of the spinal conditions commonly assessed in our clinic and links to detailed explanations of each.
Many patients arrive with MRI findings that sound concerning but are difficult to interpret.
Understanding what these findings actually mean in a clinical context is often the first step toward making informed decisions.
Disc-Related Conditions
Intervertebral discs act as load-sharing cushions between vertebrae. When discs become sensitised or extend beyond their normal boundary they may contribute to lower back pain or nerve irritation.
A disc bulge occurs when the outer portion of the disc extends beyond its normal margin. Some bulges remain asymptomatic, while others irritate nearby nerve structures depending on their position and behaviour.
A herniated disc involves disc material extending further outward and sometimes contacting a nerve. Clinical significance depends on neurological findings rather than imaging alone.
Some imaging reports describe large protrusions or extrusions. Management decisions are guided primarily by neurological stability and symptom progression rather than wording alone.
Age-related disc changes are common and frequently seen on MRI. These findings do not always correlate with pain but may influence spinal load tolerance.
Nerve-Related Conditions
When spinal nerves become irritated or compressed, symptoms may travel away from the spine and into the leg. This is often more significant clinically than local back pain.
Reduced space around a spinal nerve may cause sensory changes, pain referral or weakness depending on severity.
Spinal Stability Conditions
Some spinal presentations relate to structural stability rather than isolated disc irritation.
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra shifts relative to another, often due to a pars defect. Symptom behaviour varies based on grade and stability.
A pars defect is a stress-related fracture in part of the vertebra. In appropriate cases symptoms may respond relatively quickly to structured management.