The human body is a complex system, and every part plays an important role in our daily lives. Our spine, in particular, is one of the most crucial parts of our body. It is responsible for supporting our body weight, protecting our spinal cord, and allowing us to move and perform daily activities.
However, when something goes wrong with our spine, it can cause a range of problems throughout the body. One of the most common issues is arm or hand problems. Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians explores how your spine could be causing arm or hand problems.
Understanding the Spine
Your spine is made up of 33 vertebrae, which are divided into five segments: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and coccygeal. The cervical spine is located in the neck area, the thoracic spine is in the upper back, and the lumbar spine is in the lower back.
The spinal cord runs through the center of the spine and is protected by the vertebrae. Nerves branch out from the spinal cord through small openings between the vertebrae, which allow us to feel and move our limbs.
How the Spine Affects the Arms and Hands
When a problem occurs in the spine, it can cause nerve compression or irritation, which can lead to arm or hand problems. Here are a few examples:
- Herniated Disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft tissue inside the vertebrae pushes out of the disc’s outer layer. This can compress the nerves that run through the spinal cord, leading to arm or hand pain, tingling, or numbness.
- Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal narrows, causing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause arm or hand weakness, numbness or tingling.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which the discs between the vertebrae wear down over time. This can compress the nerve roots, leading to arm or hand pain.
- Pinched Nerve: A pinched nerve occurs when a nerve is compressed or squeezed by the surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage or muscles. This can cause arm or hand pain, numbness or weakness.
Treating Arm or Hand Problems Caused by the Spine
If you’re experiencing arm or hand problems that you suspect are caused by your spine, you should seek medical attention. Your doctor may recommend the following treatments:
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help relieve arm or hand problems caused by the spine by improving your range of motion, strength and flexibility.
- Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with arm or hand problems caused by the spine.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the affected nerves. Your specialist may recommend a procedure such as a discectomy, laminectomy or spinal fusion.
Hand and Arm Pain Treatment
Your spine plays a critical role in your overall health, and when something goes wrong with it, it can cause a range of problems throughout your body, including arm or hand problems. If you’re experiencing arm or hand problems, schedule an evaluation at the nearest location of Ortho Sport & Spine.
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