Before learning about cervical disc herniation, it helps to have a quick synopsis of the spinal anatomy. The spinal column represents the body’s main support structure. This contains five regions with the top region being cervical, which pertains to the neck. In the spine are bones known as vertebrae. Each region has multiple vertebrae. A…
Let’s start by analyzing the word spondylolisthesis. Spondylo refers to the spine. Listhesis means slipping. Put them together and the word refers to a slip in the spine. Before going further, here’s a quick review of the spine’s anatomy. The bones in the spine are called vertebrae. They comprise the spine’s building blocks. Discs sit…
The spine’s anatomy may be complex, but it contains a sophisticated system of bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Think of the spine like the internet in which the nerves provide the connections. They flow everywhere from the tips of the toes up to the brain. The nerves also branch out on the sides of…
The cervical spine refers to the neck region of the spine that supports the body. In a relaxed position, the typical cervical spine has a “C” shaped curve called lordosis. The opening of the curve goes toward the back of the neck. Kyphosis is the opposite of lordosis. Cervical means relating to the neck. While…