Overview Upper back pain, including middle back pain, can occur between the base of the neck and the bottom of the rib cage. The upper and middle back are part of the thoracic spine, which consists of twelve small bones called vertebrae. These vertebrae make up the spine. Each thoracic vertebra is connected to a…
Introduction Gout is an inflammatory disease that causes joint pain and swelling, usually in flares that last a week or two before resolving. Gout flares typically start in your big toe or lower leg. Gout develops when excessive amounts of urate accumulate in your body over time, resulting in needle-shaped crystals in and around the joint….
What is Lumbar Spondylosis? Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative condition affecting the discs, vertebrae, and associated facet joints in the lower portion of the spine called the lumbar region. Specifically, it involves wear and tear damage and abnormalities related to the lumbar spinal discs. The intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae and…
What is Osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Healthcare providers may refer to it as degenerative joint disease or OA. It occurs when the cartilage that lines your joints wears down over time, causing your bones to rub against each other as you use the affected joints. Osteoarthritis is a relatively common…
What is a Herniated Disc? A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gelatinous center of an intervertebral disc ruptures out through a weak area in the tough outer layer of the disc. This inner portion then protrudes and presses against the nerves of the spine. Ruptured discs and slipped discs are other names for herniated…
Back pain is one of the most common medical issues affecting adults. According to statistics, 8 out of 10 people will experience significant back pain at some point in their lives. Back pain can originate from problems with any of the structures in the spine—including bones, muscles, ligaments, nerves, or discs. The symptoms can range…
What is a Patellar Dislocation? Patellar dislocation is caused by a lateral movement of the patella, which leaves the trochlea groove of the femoral condyle. This usually results in a rupture of the medial patellofemoral ligament. Patellar (kneecap) dislocations are common, particularly in younger athletes, and the majority of them occur laterally (outside). When this…
A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone separates from the scapula’s cup-shaped socket. Since the shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, dislocations are more common. If you doubt a dislocated shoulder, take immediate medical treatment. Most people recover full use of their shoulders within a few weeks. On the other…
