Conditions & Treatments

Conditions

Potts' Disease

An infection of the spinal bones caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and is the most common spinal infection in the Philippines. MTB commonly infects the lungs first, then can spread via the blood or directly to the spine (due to its proximity).

Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda equina syndrome is a rare condition, but it is one of the few "spinal emergencies" that necessitate surgery. This condition results from compression of the cauda equina—a bundle of spinal nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord. It typically occurs due to a large herniated disc, spinal stenosis, tumor, trauma, or infection. Symptoms may include severe lower back pain, sciatica, saddle anesthesia (numbness in the groin area), bladder or bowel dysfunction, and leg weakness. Immediate surgical decompression is needed to prevent permanent nerve damage and long-term disability or incontinence.

Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It typically occurs when the nerve is compressed or irritated, often due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or bone spur. Sciatic pain can vary from mild to severe and is often described as sharp, burning, or shooting. Other symptoms may include numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the affected leg.

Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the spinal cord that leads to partial or complete loss of movement, sensation, and autonomic control below the injury site. Causes include trauma (e.g., car accidents, falls) and non-traumatic conditions (e.g., tumors, infections). SCI is classified as complete or incomplete based on function loss. Symptoms may include paralysis, numbness, and bowel or bladder dysfunction. Recovery depends on injury severity and prompt medical care, with treatment focusing on spine stabilization, complication prevention, and rehabilitation to enhance independence and function.

Metastatic Spinal Disease

The most common tumors in the spine, can arise from various primary cancers such as lung, breast, prostate, kidney, and thyroid. Up to 70% of cancer patients may develop these metastases, with about 10% experiencing spinal cord or nerve compression. Symptoms include neck or back pain, scoliosis, numbness, weakness, tingling, and potential paralysis. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery to enhance quality of life.

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one beneath it, often in the lumbar spine. This slippage can result from congenital defects, degenerative changes, trauma, or stress fractures, especially in athletes. Symptoms may include lower back pain, stiffness, muscle tightness, and nerve compression leading to leg pain, numbness, or weakness.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and spinal nerves. It most commonly affects the lower back (lumbar stenosis) and neck (cervical stenosis). This narrowing is often caused by age-related changes such as arthritis, herniated discs, thickened ligaments, or bone spurs. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs, and in severe cases, problems with balance or bladder control.

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition in which the intervertebral discs of the spine deteriorate or lose their cushioning ability over time. It is a common cause of back and neck pain, particularly in older adults, though it can begin as early as in one's 30s or 40s. As discs lose hydration and elasticity, they may shrink, leading to reduced disc height, bone spur formation, and potential nerve compression.

Compression Fractures

Spondylosis

Spondylosis is a general term for age-related degeneration of the spine, commonly affecting the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions. It involves the wear and tear of spinal discs, joints, and bones, often leading to disc herniation, bone spurs, and reduced disc height. These changes can cause stiffness, chronic back or neck pain, and in some cases, nerve compression leading to numbness, weakness, or radiating pain in the limbs.

Myelopathy

Myelopathy is a neurological condition caused by compression or damage to the spinal cord, often due to spinal stenosis, herniated discs, tumors, or trauma. It primarily affects the cervical and thoracic spine, leading to symptoms like pain, numbness, muscle weakness, coordination issues, and balance problems. Severe cases may impact bowel or bladder control. Untreated myelopathy can result in progressive disability, making early diagnosis and surgical intervention crucial for optimal outcomes.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Herniated / Slipped Discs

A herniated disc, often called a "slipped" or "prolapsed" disc, occurs when the soft inner gel of the disc (aka the shock absorber of the spine) pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer. This can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness—often in the back, neck, arms, or legs. Most herniated discs occur in the lower back due to aging, injury, or repetitive strain. While some patients experience no pain, others may exhibit symptoms that require treatment. Options include rest, physical therapy, medications, and, in severe cases, surgery. Many recover well with non-surgical care and lifestyle changes.

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a spinal condition characterized by an abnormal curvature and rotation of the spine that appears in children aged 10 to 18 with no known cause. The curve can develop gradually and may worsen during growth spurts. AIS is typically detected by parents or school screening when uneven shoulders, a tilted waist, or a visible curve become noticeable in a child. Most cases are mild and monitored over time, but moderate to severe curves may require bracing or surgery to prevent progression.

Ossified Posterior Longitudinal Ligament

Ossified posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is a spinal disorder characterized by abnormal bone formation in the posterior longitudinal ligament, which runs along the back of the vertebral bodies within the spinal canal. This ossification can narrow the spinal canal, leading to spinal cord compression and myelopathy. OPLL most commonly affects the cervical spine. Surgical decompression is usually needed at some point during treatment as this condition progresses over time.

Degenerative Scoliosis