The spinal column is a complex system made up of bones, discs, and ligaments. The spine can become diseased or injured in numerous ways. Several different conditions affect the spinal column in elderly people, including scoliotic curvature, osteoporosis and disc degeneration. We are all aware of the most common spine problem or condition, back pain, but aside from this classical condition, many other spinal problems can occur in elderly people.
The spine is the support structure of our body and it provides stability to allow us to walk, stand, and are capable of maintain balance. Many conditions can affect a person’s spine in the elderly. These conditions may require surgery or treatment and some people may be at risk for these conditions as they age
The team of best spine surgeons in Guntur working in best spine hospital in Andhra Pradesh will be able to determine the underlying cause of a particular spine problem. And the extent of symptoms, and will be able to advise the patient on a course of treatment that best suits their needs. You can book a visit at the best spine surgery hospital in India here and find out the available treatment options here.
How do identify the most common problems that afflict the elderly?
Several common spinal conditions can affect the elderly. Many of these diseases or injuries can be prevented and treated with early detection and correct treatment also. Certain spine conditions may be detected or detected early enough to treat effectively.
Common Spinal Problems In the Elderly
- Osteoporosis is caused by a parathyroid hormone deficiency, which is a deficiency in parathyroid Hormone (PTH). This condition causes low levels of osteoporosis, which is when the bones become weak and thin. Also called Paget’s Disease, osteoporosis affects the spine more than any other area of the body. Because vertebrae and discs are found between the ribs, pelvis and skull bones.
- Vertebral fractures are another common muscle condition in elderly people. The vertebrae are made up of a hard, cord-like material called bone, which lies between your body’s discs. When these bones become weak they may crack or break apart, causing sharp pain and complications. Such as disc herniation (which occurs when a piece of the broken bone pushes against the spinal cord.
- Degenerative disc disease is a common problem for about 80% of all people by the time they reach 70 years old. Disc disease is a condition that causes the discs in your spine to dry up, shrink and deteriorate. The spinal disc is made up of two parts: the outer hard part (annulus fibrosus) and the soft inner area (nucleus pulposus). As we age, our discs become less flexible and their ability to absorb shock and fit around our vertebrae decreases.
- Sciatica is commonly found in the elderly population. It is a spinal condition that occurs when there is nerve compression in the lower back, resulting in pain. Some common symptoms of this problem are tingling and numbness that radiates down the legs and painful, burning sensations in the calf also.
How To Treat Spinal Problems in Elderly?
1. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy has proven to be an effective treatment for many conditions affecting the spine. The goal of physical therapy is to improve function, increase muscle strength and flexibility, and correct muscle imbalances in elderly people. If you have pain in your back or neck that interferes with your quality of life, you should see the best spine doctor in Guntur right away.
2. Self Treatment
You can take steps to reduce the risk of an injury to your back and neck. Advice from a qualified chiropractor or physical therapist may be useful. Other tips include avoiding excessive bending, lifting, twisting and pulling as well as making sure you are well hydrated before workouts.
3. Prevent
You can take steps to reduce your chances of falling in the first place. Always use caution when taking care of yourself at home, using lifts and avoiding stairs. If you plan on climbing outside this winter then make sure to wear proper clothing and shoes with good arch support that you can also use indoors while remaining safe.
4. Spinal Surgery
The most common type of spinal surgery for elderly citizens is the removal or fusion procedure; this process involves surgically cutting the discs from between vertebrae to remove pressure from the space between their bones. Spinal surgery is most often performed by using minimally invasive techniques. Spine specialists and best spine surgeons in Guntur can operate through very small openings in your body. Finally, this allows the Spine surgeon in Guntur to make incisions without affecting nearby nerve roots and organs.
Final Words
Diseases of the spine can cause many problems related to your quality of life; they can also affect your ability to do even basic tasks such as walking, standing or sitting up straight. This is why it is important to understand what these problems are and how best to deal with them.