Spinal Conditions

The spine, also known as the vertebral column, is a complex and vital structure that forms the core of your skeletal system. It provides support and flexibility, allowing you to move, bend, and twist.

The vertebrae are numbered and divided into regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (chest), lumbar (lower back), sacrum (base of the spine), and coccyx (tailbone). Each region has unique functions and is susceptible to specific conditions. Common conditions affecting the spine include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, compression fractures, and Scheuermann's disease.

By understanding the specific conditions affecting each region of the spine, Tellica Imaging can provide targeted imaging services to aid in accurate diagnosis and guide effective treatment for your spinal concerns.

The Spine

The spine is a complex structure composed of vertebrae, discs, and nerves, serving as the body’s central support system. It protects the spinal cord, a vital bundle of nerves connecting the brain to the rest of the body.

When spinal health is compromised, it can lead to pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing spinal conditions effectively.

Common Spinal Conditions

At Tellica Imaging, we are committed to providing advanced imaging solutions to help identify and address spinal issues.

Cervical Spine (Neck)

The cervical spine is composed of seven vertebrae and supports the head. It allows for a wide range of motion, including flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending.

Due to its complex structure and constant movement, the cervical spine is susceptible to various conditions:

Herniated disc is when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc bulges outwards or ruptures through the outer casing. This condition puts pressure on nearby nerves, causing neck pain, shoulder pain, and numbness or tingling in the arms and hands.
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, often caused by bone spurs or thickened ligaments. This condition compresses the spinal cord and nerves, leading to neck pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking.
Whiplash occurs due to a sudden, forceful movement of the neck, often resulting from a car accident. This condition can cause damage to the neck muscles, ligaments, and tendons, resulting in pain, stiffness, and headaches.

Thoracic Spine (Mid-back)

The thoracic spine, consisting of 12 vertebrae, is relatively stable due to its connection to the ribcage. Despite its natural stability, it can be affected by conditions such as:

Scoliosis, which is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. This condition typically develops during childhood or adolescence. While it often affects the thoracic spine, it can also involve the cervical and lumbar regions.
Fractures of the thoracic vertebrae may be caused by traumatic injuries, such as car accidents or falls. Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, can also increase the risk of fractures.
Spinal tumors, both benign and malignant, can develop in the thoracic spine, potentially causing pain, neurological symptoms, and spinal instability.

Lumbar Spine (Lower Back)

The lumbar spine, comprising five vertebrae, bears the majority of the body's weight and is particularly prone to wear and tear. Common conditions affecting this region include:

Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over another, causing pain, stiffness, and numbness.
Degenerative disc disease is caused by the natural breakdown of intervertebral discs over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Herniated discs can occur in the lumbar spine similar to the cervical spine. In the lumbar region, it can cause lower back pain, sciatica (pain radiating down the leg), and numbness or weakness in the legs.
Spinal stenosis can occur due to the narrowing of the spinal canal in the lumbar spine. It leads to lower back pain, leg pain, and difficulty walking.
Sciatica in the lumbar spine refers to pain that originates in the lower back and travels through the sciatic nerve to the buttocks, hip, and leg. It is often caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.

Sacrum and Coccyx

The sacrum is a triangular bone connecting the spine to the pelvis, while the coccyx, or tailbone, is the small bone at the very bottom of the spine. They can be injured in the event of high-impact trauma, such as in car accidents.

Sacral fractures can occur due to trauma or from weakened bones due to osteoporosis. Similarly, the coccyx can become inflamed or injured due to trauma such as a fall or prolonged sitting on a hard surface. This can lead to localized pain that worsens with time.

Imaging Tests for Spinal Conditions

Advanced imaging technologies like CT scans and MRIs are essential for accurately diagnosing spinal conditions. At Tellica Imaging, we use state-of-the-art equipment to provide clear and detailed images of the spine.

We prioritize your comfort throughout the imaging process. Our team of experienced technologists and board-certified radiologists ensure high-quality scans and accurate interpretations. Additionally, we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs and work with most major insurance plans.

We offer advanced imaging services specifically designed to evaluate spinal conditions.

Tellica Imaging’s CT Scans for Spinal Conditions

Our musculoskeletal and spine CT scans provide precise, detailed images of the spine, enabling our expert radiologists to accurately diagnose a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

Our musculoskeletal and spine CT scans are designed to visualize the intricate bone and joint structures of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. They can effectively identify the following conditions.

Detecting spinal bone breaks and assessing their severity
Visualizing the narrowing of the spinal canal, helping to determine the extent of compression on nerves
Identifying abnormal growths within the spinal column
Detecting signs of inflammation or infection in the spinal tissues

Tellica Imaging’s MRIs for Spinal Conditions

Our spine MRI scans provide unparalleled detail of the spine's soft tissues, enabling our radiologists to accurately diagnose a wide range of spinal conditions.

Our MRI scans are instrumental in evaluating the health of the spinal cord, nerves, discs, and surrounding muscles. They can effectively visualize:

Bulges or ruptures in the intervertebral discs that may be compressing nerves.
Narrowing of the spinal canal that is impinging on the spinal cord.
The severity of spinal canal narrowing and its impact on nerve roots.
Muscle, ligament, and tendon damage associated with spinal pain.
Abnormal growths within or around the spinal column.
Breakdown of intervertebral discs and its contribution to spinal pain.

Schedule Imaging Tests for Spinal Conditions with Tellica Imaging

Maintaining spinal health is essential for overall well-being. If you experience neck, back, or leg pain, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider. At Tellica Imaging, our commitment to patient care and technological excellence ensures that you receive the highest quality diagnostic imaging for your spinal condition.

Our staff is dedicated to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for every patient. Additionally, our upfront and transparent pricing eliminates surprise bills, ensuring you can focus on your health.

Visit us at any of our convenient locations and our friendly staff will be glad to answer any questions you may have. Alternatively, call us to schedule an imaging test at any of our locations.