What is Degenerative Disc Disease? Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that affects the discs between the vertebrae of the spine. Despite its name, it is not a disease but rather a natural process that occurs as part of aging. DDD involves the gradual breakdown of spinal discs over time. It commonly affects the
Epicondylitis Explained in Detail
What is Epicondylitis? Epicondylitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the tendons that attach to the bony prominences (epicondyles) on the outer or inner aspects of the elbow. The two common types include: Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow): Affects the outer part of the elbow Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow): Affects the inner part of the elbow Epicondylitis
Mechanical Low Back Pain Explained
What is Mechanical Low Back Pain? Mechanical low back pain refers to pain that arises intrinsically from the spine, intervertebral discs, or surrounding soft tissues. It is a broad term that encompasses various causes of low back pain, including muscle strain, disc herniation, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis, vertebral compression fractures, and acute or chronic traumatic injury. What
Tension Neck Syndrome Explained
Tension Neck Syndrome, also known as “tension neck syndrome” or “cervicogenic headache,” is characterised by neck pain and muscle tension, often headaches. This syndrome is commonly associated with prolonged periods of maintaining an awkward head position or repetitive neck movements, such as those often seen in desk work or prolonged use of electronic devices. Symptoms
Muscle / Tendon Strains – A Definitive Guide
What Are The Symptoms of Muscle & Tendon Strains? Muscle and tendon strains share some common symptoms, but there are differences in how they present. Here are the typical symptoms of muscle and tendon strains: Symptoms of Muscle Strain Pain The most common symptom is localised pain at the site of the strained muscle. The
Ruptured / Herniated Discs – A Complete Explanation
A ruptured or herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or disc herniation, is a medical condition affecting the spine’s intervertebral discs. These discs are the soft, cushion-like structures located between the vertebrae (the bones of the spine), and they serve as shock absorbers, providing flexibility and support to the spinal column. When a
Are You Suffering from Tendonitis?
What is Tendonitis? Tendonitis (“tendinitis”) is an inflammatory condition affecting the tendons, which are thick cords of tissue that attach muscles to bones. Tendons are responsible for transmitting the force generated by the muscles to the bones, allowing movement of the joints. Tendonitis occurs when the tendons become irritated or inflamed due to overuse, injury,
What is Musculoskeletal Medicine?
Musculoskeletal medicine is a subspecialty of General Practice, involving the examination and management of all aspects of the musculoskeletal system, which includes joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and bones. The specialty encompasses diseases as diverse as these structures, ranging from acute and chronic injuries to complex conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis. Common injections used
Delayed Onset Muscle Pain (DOMP)
Jo (not her real name) hobbled into my consulting room, walking stiffly and in obvious discomfort. My initial thought was that she had injured one of her knees or hips, after commencing exercising to assist with her osteoarthritis. She was nearly in tears as she told me that it burned like fire to walk, climb
Back Myths & Truths
Is there a role for massage in back pain? There seems to be no harm following the first week, however, there is little evidence that shows massage aids in a speedy recovery. What about the evidence for laminectomies? A laminectomy is when the lamina (the back bit of the vertebrae with the spinous process) is