Degenerative problems

• Intervertebral disc degeneration which occurs when the usually rubbery discs wear down as a normal process of aging and lose their cushioning ability.
• Spondylosis the general degeneration of the spine associated with normal wear and tear that occurs in the joints, discs, and bones of the spine as people get older.
• Arthritis or other inflammatory disease  in the spine, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis as well as spondylitis, an inflammation of the vertebrae.

Nerve and spinal cord problems

• Spinal nerve compression, inflammation and/or injury
• Sciatica (also called radiculopathy), caused by something pressing on the sciatic nerve that travels through the buttocks and extends down the back of the leg. People with sciatica may feel shock-like or burning low back pain combined with pain through the buttocks and down one leg.
• Spinal stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal column that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves
• Spondylolisthesis, which happens when a vertebra of the lower spine slips out of place, pinching the nerves exiting the spinal column
• Herniated or ruptured discs can occur when the intervertebral discs become compressed and bulge outward
• Infections involving the vertebrae, a condition called osteomyelitis; the intervertebral discs, called discitis; or the sacroiliac joints connecting the lower spine to the pelvis, called sacroiliitis
• Cauda equina syndrome occurs when a ruptured disc pushes into the spinal canal and presses on the bundle of lumbar and sacral nerve roots. Permanent neurological damage may result if this syndrome is left untreated.
• Osteoporosis (a progressive decrease in bone density and strength that can lead to painful fractures of the vertebrae). 

All scary sounding stuff! (NOTE: Cauda Equina is very serious, but usually very rare)

However, in our clinic we find that the individuals back pain has nothing to do with the findings of the MRI scan and that in the vast majority of cases we can get the person back in action with time, individual specific treatment and home low back pain exercises. Individuals with a positive mindset and who are focused and dedicated usually do very well. 

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, let us look after you to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. With proper care and management, most cases of shoulder pain can be effectively treated, allowing you to regain your mobility and improve your quality of life.