The spine is composed of bones called vertebrae whose function is to provide stability, movement, structure and housing for the spinal cord and spinal nerves. Conditions or diseases that affect the vertebral bones are relatively common. Bone is a living tissue and is subject to infection and disease like all tissues. There are many different tests to diagnose various diseases of the back bone such as X-ray, CT, MRI, bone scan, biopsy and laboratory blood work.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is common disease that most American's will experience. It decreases the mineral density in bones by leaching these minerals for use elsewhere in the body, causing the bones to become weak and brittle. According to the Mayo Clinic, bones can become so brittle that a mild fall or even a cough can cause them to fracture. There are preventative measures that individuals with risk factors can take to help prevent or decrease bone loss such as dietary changes and exercise.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic disease that causes inflammation of the joint surfaces in the spine and pelvis. This inflammation and destruction leads to pain and stiffness, especially in the mornings or after a period of inactivity. Eventually it can lead to inflexibility in the spine, chronic pain and stooped posture.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory condition that most often affects the small bones in the hands and feet, but can affect all joint surfaces of the body. In the spine, it is most often manifest in the cervical joints. According to the Mayo Clinic, RA is an autoimmune disease that attacks the lining of the joints and can cause erosion of the joint surfaces.
Osteomyelitis
This condition is an infection of the bone or the joint space. According to Spineuniverse.com, it is commonly caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Like any infection, osteomyelitis can cause pain, fever and chills as well as destruction and eventual collapse of the infected bone. Long-term antibiotic treatment and possibly surgery is required to treat this condition.
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is a cancer that originates in the bone. It affects the cells that produce bone material called osteoblasts and causes weak, brittle bones. It is also possible that this cancer can metastasize to other parts of the body causing further destruction. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. This cancer is much more common in children or teenagers than any other age group, according to the American Cancer Society.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA), or degenerative joint disease, is a wear-and-tear breakdown of the joint surfaces and cartilage. It causes bony outgrowths called bone spurs and can lead to back pain. It is the most common form of joint disorder. It can affect any joint in the body, but is a common spinal disorder.
