Question 1

My hand is numb — could it be coming from my neck?

Accepted Answer

It can. Which fingers are numb narrows down where the nerve is compressed.

Question 2

Can I check for a cervical disc at home?

Accepted Answer

If two or more of the items below apply, we would suggest having it checked.

Question 3

Why look at the jaw joint as well, rather than the neck alone?

Accepted Answer

Because the cervical vertebrae are not the only structure holding the head up. When the jaw joint and the upper neck are out of alignment, load keeps accumulating in the neck.

Question 4

Does corrective treatment hurt?

Accepted Answer

We adjust the force to the level of pain. There is a gentle approach, so children and older patients can receive it too.

Question 5

If I leave a straight neck alone, does it turn into a cervical disc problem?

Accepted Answer

It can progress that way. Once the cervical curve flattens, the capacity to absorb impact falls and the disc is pressed continuously.

Question 6

Are there different types of straight neck?

Accepted Answer

We separate them by whether the problem sits in the neck alone, or whether imbalance of the shoulders or pelvis comes with it.

Question 7

What happens if I leave a hunched upper back alone?

Accepted Answer

Muscle and joints stiffen, so treatment takes longer, and the risk of secondary conditions such as disc problems, degenerative arthritis and temporomandibular joint disorder rises.

Question 8

Why does a hunched upper back develop?

Accepted Answer

The cause differs with age. In the growing years it is posture; from middle age onwards, degenerative change and osteoporosis are the main causes.

Question 9

Is a back that is too flat also a problem, the opposite of a rounded one?

Accepted Answer

A flat back is a problem too. The pressure on the disc when bending forward is higher than usual.

Question 10

Is there a way to check for a lumbar disc at home?

Accepted Answer

Lie flat, compare your leg lengths, and see whether both big toes can push. These are clues worth following up, not a diagnosis.

Question 11

Why does the level of the lumbar disc matter?

Accepted Answer

A different nerve is compressed, so the pain and numbness land in different places — and so does what we need to examine.

Question 12

What if it hurts again after treatment?

Accepted Answer

To reduce recurrence we look not only at where the disc pressed, but at the gait and pelvis that were loading that spot.

Question 13

How do I tell a lumbar disc from spinal stenosis?

Accepted Answer

More pain when you straighten or lean back points to stenosis, and so does relief when you bend forward.

Question 14

I heard spinal stenosis is more common in women. Is that true?

Accepted Answer

It is reported more often in women. Muscle mass, hormonal change and daily habits are each thought to play a part.

Question 15

My legs weaken when I walk and I keep having to rest. Why?

Accepted Answer

Walking narrows the spinal canal further and compresses the nerve. It eases with rest and returns when you walk on — that pattern is characteristic.

Question 16

Can I check for scoliosis at home?

Accepted Answer

Have your child bend forward 90 degrees and look at the back from behind. One side of the back or one shoulder blade standing higher is worth checking.

Question 17

How is the degree of curvature measured?

Accepted Answer

The angle of the spine on an X-ray — the Cobb angle. It is graded under 10 degrees, 10 to 20 degrees, and above that.

Question 18

Is it from poor posture, or was it always there?

Accepted Answer

Most cases curve gradually with no clear cause, and posture alone does not explain them. The type has to be identified first.

Question 19

Does spondylolysis always hurt?

Accepted Answer

No. Many people have it without symptoms. Some feel pain when leaning back or walking for a long time.

Question 20

How does spondylolisthesis differ from spondylolysis?

Accepted Answer

The vertebra above has slipped forward over the one below. It develops from spondylolysis or from degenerative change.

Question 21

What treatment is given for scoliosis?

Accepted Answer

Correction to hold the twisted axis, together with exercise to build the muscles that keep posture in line with the direction of the curve.

Spine Conditions

🏥 FAQs by Condition

Lumbar Disc Herniation

Spinal Stenosis

Scoliosis

Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis

Cervical Disc Herniation

Straight Neck and Forward Head Posture

Hunched Upper Back

💬 All FAQs 21questions