Neck Overview
At Gerling Spine Care NJ, we diagnose and treat a range of neck conditions, focusing on relieving pain, restoring function, and improving mobility.
Bone Spur
Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are bony projections that develop along the edges of bones, often in the spine. These growths can lead to pain, sciatica, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Bulging Disc
A bulging disc occurs when one of the rubbery cushions between your vertebrae extends beyond its normal boundary, potentially leading to discomfort and pain. This condition can affect various areas of the spine and may result in nerve compression.
Congenital Spinal Stenosis
Congenital spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal is narrower than usual from birth, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Deformity of the Spine
Spinal deformities involve abnormal alignment or curvature, such as scoliosis or kyphosis, which can cause pain, posture issues, or limited mobility.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease occurs when spinal discs break down over time, leading to chronic pain, reduced flexibility, and potential nerve compression.
Facet Joint Syndrome
Facet joint syndrome is caused by inflammation or wear in the small joints of the spine, resulting in localized back or neck pain and stiffness.
Failed Neck Surgery
Failed neck surgery refers to persistent or worsening symptoms after cervical spine surgery, often due to unresolved nerve issues or scar tissue.
Foraminal Stenosis
Foraminal stenosis is the narrowing of nerve passageways in the spine, which can compress nerves and lead to radiating pain, numbness, or weakness.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc happens when the inner material of a spinal disc bulges or ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain or tingling.
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal forward flexed curvature of the spine, affecting the neck (cervical spine) or back (thoracic or lumbar spine), typically resulting in a rounded or hunched back or forward lurching of the head.
Myelopathy
Myelopathy is spinal cord compression that can cause balance problems, weakness, numbness, and coordination issues, typically requiring prompt attention.
Neck Injury
Neck injuries can range from mild strains to severe trauma, and they can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that causes cartilage breakdown in the spine, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures and breaks.
Pinched Nerve
A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding structures compress a spinal nerve, causing sharp, radiating pain, numbness, or muscle weakness.
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical radiculopathy is caused by nerve irritation in the neck, leading to pain, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the shoulder and arm.
Sciatica
Sciatica is nerve pain that travels from the lower back down the leg, usually caused by disc issues or spinal narrowing pressing on the sciatic nerve.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine that can cause uneven shoulders, back pain, and in some cases, breathing difficulties if severe.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries (SCI) are among the most severe forms of trauma, potentially resulting in long-term or permanent disability.
Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures are serious injuries that involve a break or crack in the vertebrae, the bones that make up the spine.
Spinal Stenosis Thoracic
Thoracic spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal in the mid-back, which can compress the spinal cord and lead to pain or nerve issues.
Spinal Stenosis Cervical
Cervical spinal stenosis involves narrowing in the neck portion of the spine, often causing neck pain, balance issues, and radiating arm symptoms.
Spinal Tumors
Spinal tumors are abnormal growths that form in or around the spine, originating from the spine or spreading from other areas (metastasis).
Spondylitis
Spondylitis refers to a group of inflammatory diseases that primarily affect the spine and other joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis happens when a vertebra slips out of place, commonly in the lower back, causing pain, nerve symptoms, or spinal instability.
Spondylolysis
Spondylolysis is a stress fracture in a vertebra, often seen in younger athletes, that can lead to localized back pain and reduced flexibility.