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Understanding Back Injuries

Lumbar Radiculopathy, commonly known as sciatica, occurs when a nerve root in the lumbar spine becomes compressed or irritated. This condition causes pain, numbness, and weakness that radiates from the lower back down through the legs.

Types of Back Injuries

Back injuries come in many forms, with varying degrees of severity. Common types of back injuries include:

  • Muscle Strains: Stretching or tearing of the muscles or ligaments in the back due to overuse, poor posture, or lifting heavy objects.
  • Herniated Discs: Occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc bulges out, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain or numbness.
  • Fractured Vertebrae: A serious injury that occurs when one or more of the vertebrae in the spine breaks, often due to trauma, such as a fall or car accident.
  • Sciatica: A condition caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots, leading to pain radiating from the lower back down to the legs.
  • Spondylolisthesis: When one vertebra slips over another, often due to injury or degenerative changes in the spine.
  • Spondylolysis (Lysis of the vertebrae) or Pars Fracture: When the posterior elements  of the spine breaks and causes instability in the back, including slippage or  isthmic spondylolisthesis.
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Symptoms of a Back Injury

The symptoms of a back injury can vary depending on the type and severity. Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent or sharp back pain
  • Limited range of motion
  • Stiffness or tightness in the back
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
  • Pain radiating to the arms, legs, or feet (in cases involving nerve or spinal cord compression)

Causes of Back Injuries

Back injuries can occur for several reasons, including:

  • Trauma or Accidents: Car accidents, falls, industrial injuries and sports injuries are leading causes of back injuries.
  • Repetitive Movements: Repeated bending, lifting, or twisting can strain the back and lead to injuries over time. This can occur at home and frequently occurs on the job.
  • Poor Posture: Sitting or standing for long periods with poor posture can stress the spine and muscles, leading to discomfort and injury.
  • Aging: As we age, the discs in the spine may lose their cushioning ability and flexibility, making the back more prone to injury.
  • Obesity: Excess weight puts extra strain on the back, increasing the likelihood of degeneration and injury.
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Diagnosing Back Injuries

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we utilize advanced diagnostic techniques to pinpoint the cause of your back injury. After a thorough consultation, your doctor may recommend diagnostic testing including imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. We often also look deeper with laboratory testing, bone mineral density testing (DEXA) and EMG tests of nerve function to get a clear picture of your spine's condition.

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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute?

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we are committed to offering personalized care for back injuries. Led by Dr. Michael Gerling, a veteran academic that has performed thousands of lumbar surgeries, our experienced team combines the latest diagnostic tools with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. Whether your condition requires conservative management, biologic regenerative procedures or surgical intervention, we are here to guide you every step of the way toward a full recovery.

We take the time to understand your unique needs and customize a treatment plan that addresses your goals. With our expertise and cutting-edge techniques, we aim to provide long-lasting relief, spinal restoration and improved quality of life.

Our Locations

Gerling Spinecare & Research Institute consists of NY Orthopedics & Gerling Institute NJ. Two practices, one standard of excellence.

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We're here to help you move forward.

Relief starts with quality orthopedic care. Contact us today to take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.

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