Spinal Disorders: Conditions, Causes, Degenerative Diseases, and Treatment of the Spine

Spinal disorders can affect any of the spine’s anatomical structures. 

The most common spinal disorders include:

• Herniated Disc
• Spinal canal stenosis
• Deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis
• Autoimmune diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis
• Scheuermann’s disease, which develops during adolescence
• Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis of the facet joints
• Degenerative changes, inflammatory conditions, and signs of wear and tear
• Vertebral fractures may also occur 

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine that leads to a postural abnormality that is more or less clearly visible @ filins /AdobeStock

Symptoms vary depending on the condition. The main symptom of spinal disorders is back pain.

If the spinal cord is compromised by narrowing of the spinal canal, neurological symptoms may occur. 

These include:

• tingling sensations, sensory disturbances
• Numbness
• An altered sensation of heat or cold in the arms, legs, or feet 
• Symptoms of paralysis (depending on the affected section of the spine)
• Radiating pain and limited range of motion

These symptoms occur, for example, in cases of compression syndrome caused by herniated discs or spinal stenosis. This puts pressure on the spinal cord.

Spinal disorders can be acquired or congenital. 

Congenital conditions include:

• Scoliosis
• Scheuermann’s disease and
• Ankylosing spondylitis

Herniated discs and facet joint osteoarthritis are often caused by natural aging processes. These are acquired, degenerative wear-and-tear conditions of the spine.

In a herniated disc, tissue from the intervertebral disc between the vertebral bodies protrudes further and further outward @ marga /AdobeStock

In facet joint osteoarthritis, the intervertebral discs gradually lose their function as cushions between the vertebrae. As a result, the vertebral bodies move closer together because the facet joints between them become overloaded and wear down.

As a result, the spine loses its flexible alignment. It can literally collapse. Pressure on the intervertebral discs, spinal cord, and spinal nerves increases.

The diagnosis of spinal disorders begins with a clinical examination, which is supplemented by imaging techniques. CT scans are of particular diagnostic importance in the thoracic and lumbar spine regions for reliably visualizing changes such as spondylarthrosis, damage to the annulus fibrosus, or narrowing of the spinal canal. This allows orthopedic specialists to assess whether conservative measures are sufficient or whether surgical intervention is necessary. A precise diagnostic evaluation is crucial for initiating the appropriate treatment and preventing potential complications.

Treatment options for spinal disorders depend on the type and severity of the condition. Initially, conservative therapies such as physical therapy are usually employed to specifically strengthen the muscles and to support and stabilize the back and core muscles. If these forms of therapy are insufficient, minimally invasive and microsurgical procedures may be necessary to accelerate the healing process and minimize damage to the surrounding tissue. In more severe cases—such as those involving significant instability—surgical fusion (spondylodesis) of the affected segments of the spine may be advisable to alleviate symptoms and ensure long-term functionality. In addition, rehabilitative treatment plays an important role in preventing improper strain and supporting long-term stability.

Spondylosis of the Spine

Improper and/or chronic stress on the spine can significantly contribute to its development.

In a herniated disc, the gel-like nucleus of the disc protrudes from its structures and presses on the spinal cord.

In spinal stenosis, the spinal canal is severely narrowed due to bony changes. This leads to back pain and restricted movement.

Muscle disorders (myopathies) or underdeveloped core muscles can also have a negative impact on spinal health.

Autoimmune diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis can also cause spinal symptoms. In these cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own structures.