Backache

Backache, commonly referred to as back pain, is a prevalent condition that can range from a mild, temporary discomfort to chronic, debilitating pain. It often originates from the structures of the spine, including muscles, bones, nerves, and joints. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and types of backache is essential for proper diagnosis and effective management.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of backache can vary widely, depending on the underlying cause and the affected structures. Common symptoms include:

  1. Dull or Aching Pain: The pain associated with backache is often described as dull or aching. It may be constant or intermittent, and its intensity can range from mild to severe.
  2. Stiffness: Individuals with backache may experience stiffness, making it difficult to move or bend the spine comfortably.
  3. Muscle Tension and Spasms: Tightness and spasms in the muscles of the back are common, contributing to discomfort and reduced flexibility.
  4. Radiating Pain: In some cases, back pain may radiate to other areas, such as the hips, buttocks, or down the legs. This can occur when nerves are involved, as seen in conditions like sciatica.
  5. Limited Range of Motion: Backache can lead to a decreased range of motion, making certain movements challenging or painful.

Causes:

Backache can result from a variety of factors, and identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. Common causes include:

  1. Muscle Strain or Sprain: Overuse, poor posture, or sudden movements can cause strains or sprains in the muscles and ligaments of the back.
  2. Herniated Disc: The discs between the vertebrae can herniate or bulge, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain. This is common in the lumbar spine and is associated with conditions like sciatica.
  3. Spinal Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves and causing pain, especially during certain activities.
  4. Osteoarthritis: The degeneration of joint cartilage in the spine can lead to osteoarthritis, resulting in pain and stiffness.
  5. Scoliosis: An abnormal curvature of the spine, scoliosis can cause back pain, particularly if the curvature is severe.
  6. Vertebral Fractures: Fractures of the vertebrae, often due to osteoporosis or trauma, can cause acute back pain.
  7. Degenerative Disc Disease: As discs in the spine age, they can lose flexibility, leading to pain and discomfort.
  8. Kdney Stones: In some cases, back pain may be a symptom of kidney stones or other kidney-related issues.
  9. Infections: Spinal infections, though rare, can cause back pain and require prompt medical attention.

Types:

Backache can be categorized based on its duration and severity:

 

  1. Acute Back Pain: This type of backache comes on suddenly and is often intense. It typically lasts for a short duration, usually a few days to a few weeks, and is commonly associated with muscle strains or sprains.

 

  1. Chronic Back Pain: Chronic back pain persists for an extended period, typically lasting for three months or more. It may be related to ongoing medical conditions such as degenerative disc disease, arthritis, or spinal stenosis.

 

  1. Radicular Pain: Radicular pain, commonly known as sciatica, occurs when a nerve is compressed or irritated, resulting in pain that radiates down the leg. This type of pain is often caused by a herniated disc.

 

  1. Mechanical Back Pain: Mechanical back pain is associated with specific movements or positions and may result from muscle imbalances, poor posture, or repetitive activities.
  2. Non-specific Back Pain: Non-specific back pain refers to pain without a clear identifiable cause. It is a common category that often involves a combination of factors, including muscle tension, joint problems, and poor ergonomics.

It’s essential to note that back pain can be influenced by various factors, including age, genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. Prevention strategies, such as maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and engaging in regular exercise, can contribute to the overall well-being of the spine.

Seeking medical attention is advisable for persistent or severe back pain, especially if accompanied by other concerning symptoms like weakness, numbness, or changes in bowel or bladder function. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies, to determine the specific cause of the backache and recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which may include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Calcaneal Spur,

A calcaneal spur, also known as a heel spur, is a bony outgrowth that forms on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus). It is often associated with chronic inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. While heel spurs themselves may not always cause pain, they can contribute to discomfort and are frequently linked to a condition known as plantar fasciitis.

Symptoms:

  1. Heel Pain: The most common symptom is pain in the heel, especially when standing up or walking after periods of rest.
  2. Tenderness: The affected area may be tender to the touch.
  3. Swelling: Some individuals may experience localized swelling around the heel.
  4. Discomfort While Walking: Pain can intensify during activities that put pressure on the feet, such as walking or running.

Causes:

  1. Plantar Fasciitis: The primary cause of calcaneal spurs is often associated with plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the plantar fascia. Repetitive strain or overuse of the fascia can lead to the formation of a spur.
  2. Aging: As individuals age, the plantar fascia may lose elasticity, making it more susceptible to stress and damage.
  3. Biomechanical Factors: Abnormalities in foot structure or mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches, can contribute to increased stress on the heel bone and the development of spurs.
  4. Poorly Fitted Shoes: Wearing shoes with inadequate support or improper fit can strain the plantar fascia and contribute to heel spur formation.

Types:

  1. Posterior Calcaneal Spur: This type is located at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone.
  2. Inferior Calcaneal Spur: This is the more common type, found on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis.

It’s important to note that not everyone with a heel spur experiences pain, and the presence of a spur does not necessarily indicate the presence of symptoms. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, to confirm the presence of a heel spur and assess its size.

Calf muscle

Calf muscle pain refers to discomfort or soreness in the muscles located at the back of the lower leg, known as the calf muscles. This pain can result from various causes and may range from mild to severe. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and types of calf muscle pain is essential for proper diagnosis and effective management.

Symptoms:

  1. Muscle Tightness: A sensation of tightness or stiffness in the calf muscles is a common symptom.
  2. Pain during Movement: Pain may occur when walking, running, or performing activities that involve the use of the calf muscles.
  3. Swelling: In some cases, swelling or inflammation of the calf muscles may accompany the pain.
  4. Muscle Spasms: Individuals may experience involuntary muscle contractions or spasms.
  5. Weakness: Calf muscle pain can lead to weakness or difficulty in bearing weight on the affected leg.

Causes:

  1. Muscle Strain: Overexertion or sudden, intense physical activity can lead to calf muscle strains, causing pain and potential microtears in the muscle fibers.
  2. Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake can contribute to muscle cramps and pain.
  3. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow to the lower extremities can cause calf pain, especially during physical activity.
  4. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots in the deep veins of the leg can lead to calf pain, swelling, and warmth.
  5. Muscle Imbalance: Weakness or imbalance in the muscles surrounding the calf can contribute to pain and discomfort.
  6. Overuse: Repetitive motions or prolonged periods of standing or walking can strain the calf muscles.
  7. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as sciatica or nerve compression in the lower back can radiate pain to the calf.
  8. Injuries: Traumatic injuries, such as a direct blow or muscle tear, can cause acute calf pain.

Types:

  1. Gastrocnemius Strain: The gastrocnemius muscle, a large muscle in the calf, is susceptible to strains, often due to sudden movements or excessive stress.
  2. Soleus Strain: The soleus muscle, located beneath the gastrocnemius, can also experience strains, particularly with activities involving repetitive or prolonged plantar flexion.
  3. Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can cause pain in the back of the calf.
  4. Calf Cramps: Sudden, involuntary contractions of the calf muscles can result in intense pain and discomfort.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist, surrounded by bones and ligaments, through which the median nerve and several tendons pass. Compression of the median nerve can lead to various symptoms affecting the hand and wrist.

Symptoms:

  1. Numbness or Tingling: Individuals with CTS often experience numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.
  2. Weakness: Weakness in the hand and a tendency to drop objects may occur.
  3. Pain or Discomfort: Pain or aching in the wrist, palm, or forearm is common, and the discomfort may radiate up the arm.
  4. Nighttime Symptoms: Symptoms often worsen at night, leading to sleep disturbances.

Causes:

  1. Compression: The most common cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve. This can result from swelling or inflammation in the carpal tunnel, which may be due to various factors.
  2. Repetitive Movements: Repeated and forceful movements of the wrist, especially those involving flexion and extension, can contribute to the development of CTS.
  3. Hand and Wrist Positioning: Maintaining awkward or strained positions of the hand and wrist for prolonged periods can increase pressure on the median nerve.
  4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disorders, are associated with an increased risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
  5. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, can contribute to fluid retention and increased pressure within the carpal tunnel.

Types:

  1. Idiopathic CTS: The most common type, idiopathic CTS, has no specific identifiable cause and often develops gradually over time.
  2. Secondary CTS: This type is associated with an underlying medical condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes.
  3. Pregnancy-Related CTS: Hormonal changes and fluid retention during pregnancy can lead to temporary CTS symptoms.
  4. Traumatic CTS: Direct trauma or injury to the wrist may result in carpal tunnel syndrome.

Severe or persistent cases may require surgical intervention known as carpal tunnel release, where the ligament pressing on the median nerve is cut to relieve pressure. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in preventing long-term complications and improving the quality of life for individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Cervical spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis, also known as cervical osteoarthritis or neck arthritis, is a degenerative condition affecting the cervical spine, particularly the discs and joints. It is a common age-related condition that develops due to wear and tear on the cervical vertebrae over time. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and types of cervical spondylosis is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.

Symptoms:

  1. Neck Pain: Persistent pain in the neck is a common symptom, often aggravated by movement.
  2. Stiffness: Reduced flexibility and stiffness in the neck may occur, making it difficult to turn the head.
  3. Headaches: Cervical spondylosis can contribute to tension headaches, especially at the base of the skull.
  4. Radiating Pain: Pain may radiate into the shoulders and arms, sometimes reaching the hands.
  5. Numbness and Tingling: Compression of nerves can lead to numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the arms and hands.
  6. Weakness: Muscle weakness in the arms or hands may develop, affecting grip strength.

Causes:

  1. Age: Cervical spondylosis is primarily an age-related condition, with wear and tear on the spine occurring over time. 
  1. Degeneration of Intervertebral Discs: Discs between the vertebrae lose water content and elasticity, reducing their ability to cushion the spinal joints.
  2. Bone Spurs (Osteophytes): Overgrowth of bone, known as bone spurs, can develop on the vertebrae’s edges, contributing to joint stiffness and nerve compression.
  3. Herniated Discs: Discs may bulge or herniate, pressing on nerves and causing symptoms.
  4. Dehydrated Discs: Loss of fluid within the discs can decrease their shock-absorbing capabilities.
  5. Genetic Factors: Certain individuals may be predisposed to developing cervical spondylosis due to genetic factors.
  6. Occupational Factors: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive neck movement or strain may increase the risk.

Types:

  1. Cervical Osteoarthritis: The general term for degenerative changes in the cervical spine involving joints and discs.
  2. Cervical Disc Herniation: Discs between vertebrae herniate, pressing on spinal nerves and causing symptoms.
  3. Cervical Radiculopathy: Compression or irritation of spinal nerve roots leads to pain, numbness, or weakness along the nerve pathway.
  4. Cervical Myelopathy: Compression of the spinal cord in the neck, resulting in symptoms such as difficulty walking, hand clumsiness, and balance issues.
  5. Facet Joint Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the facet joints in the cervical spine, causing pain and stiffness.

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis):

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and a gradual loss of range of motion. It typically progresses through stages and can significantly impact daily activities. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and types is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.

Symptoms:

  1. Pain and Stiffness: The hallmark symptoms of frozen shoulder are pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Individuals may experience a gradual onset of pain, often more pronounced at night, accompanied by increasing stiffness.
  2. Limited Range of Motion: As the condition progresses, there is a noticeable restriction in the range of motion of the affected shoulder. Simple tasks like reaching overhead, behind the back, or across the body become challenging.
  3. Pain at Rest: Discomfort may be present even when the shoulder is at rest. This can disrupt sleep and affect overall quality of life.
  4. Progressive Symptoms: Frozen shoulder typically evolves through stages, including a painful phase, a freezing phase marked by increasing stiffness, and a thawing phase where symptoms gradually improve.

Causes:

  1. Inflammation: Inflammatory processes within the shoulder joint, particularly affecting the capsule—a connective tissue surrounding the joint—are a key factor in the development of frozen shoulder.
  2. Scar Tissue Formation: Over time, inflammation can lead to the formation of adhesions and scar tissue within the joint capsule. This contributes to the tightening of the capsule and restricts the normal gliding of the joint surfaces.
  3. Risk Factors: Certain factors increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder. Diabetes is a significant risk factor, and individuals with this condition are more prone to experiencing adhesive capsulitis. Previous shoulder injuries, surgeries, or prolonged periods of shoulder immobilization can also contribute.
  4. Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissues, may be associated with an increased risk of developing frozen shoulder.
  5. Hormonal Factors: Some studies suggest a potential link between hormonal imbalances, especially in postmenopausal women, and the development of frozen shoulder.

Types:

  1. Primary Frozen Shoulder: Also known as idiopathic adhesive capsulitis, primary frozen shoulder occurs spontaneously without a specific underlying cause. It progresses through the characteristic stages of pain, stiffness, and eventual improvement.
  2. Secondary Frozen Shoulder: This type is associated with a specific cause or trigger, such as a previous shoulder injury, surgery, or another medical condition. Secondary frozen shoulder may have a more identifiable origin compared to the primary form.
  3. Systemic Diseases: In addition to diabetes and autoimmune diseases, systemic conditions affecting the overall health of connective tissues may contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder:

  1. Pain (Freezing Stage): The initial phase involves the gradual onset of pain, often more severe at night. This stage can last for several weeks to months.
  2. Stiffness (Frozen Stage): As pain persists, stiffness becomes more pronounced. Range of motion is significantly limited, and daily activities become challenging. This stage can last for 4-6 months.
  3. Thawing Stage: Gradual improvement in pain and a slow return of shoulder mobility characterize the thawing stage. It can take months to years for individuals to regain full function.

Understanding the symptoms, causes, and types of frozen shoulder is essential for early detection and appropriate management. It’s important for individuals experiencing persistent shoulder pain or stiffness to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Ganglion

A ganglion is a fluid-filled cyst that commonly develops near joints or tendons, usually in the wrists and hands. These cysts are generally noncancerous and present as lumps beneath the skin. While ganglions are often harmless, they can cause discomfort or pain, and in some cases, may require medical attention.

Causes:

The exact cause of ganglion formation is not always clear, but several factors contribute to their development:

  1. Joint or Tendon Irritation: Ganglions frequently arise in response to irritation or stress on a joint or tendon. Repetitive activities or movements that strain the joints can contribute to the development of ganglions.
  2. Connective Tissue Breakdown: The cyst forms when the tissue surrounding a joint or tendon weakens, allowing the joint fluid to escape and accumulate. This leads to the creation of a sac-like structure that becomes the ganglion.
  3. Unknown Factors: In some cases, ganglions appear spontaneously, and the precise trigger remains unknown. Genetic predisposition and underlying joint or tendon conditions may play a role.

Types:

Ganglions can manifest in various locations, and their types are categorized based on their specific locations and characteristics:

  1. Dorsal Wrist Ganglion: This is the most common type, typically found on the back of the wrist. Dorsal ganglions are visible as lumps and may vary in size. They often develop from the scapholunate joint.
  2. Volar Wrist Ganglion: Less common than dorsal ganglions, these are located on the front or palm side of the wrist. Volar ganglions may be associated with deeper structures such as the radioscaphoid joint.
  3. Mucous Cyst: Ganglions near the fingernail are referred to as mucous cysts. These can be associated with osteoarthritis and may cause changes in the nail structure.
  4. Ganglions in Other Joints: While wrists are the most common location, ganglions can also develop in other joints, such as the ankles, knees, or shoulders.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of ganglions can vary, and not all individuals with ganglions experience discomfort. Common symptoms include:

  1. Visible Lump: The most noticeable symptom is the presence of a visible lump beneath the skin. Ganglions are often round or oval and may change in size over time.
  2. Pain or Discomfort: Ganglions can cause pain or discomfort, particularly when pressure is applied to the affected area or during certain movements. The pain may be dull or sharp.
  3. Changes in Size: Ganglions may fluctuate in size, sometimes increasing or decreasing. The size can be influenced by factors such as activity level, inflammation, or changes in joint fluid.
  4. Limitation of Joint Movement: Larger ganglions may restrict joint movement and cause stiffness. This can be particularly evident if the ganglion is near a joint or tendon that is crucial for movement.
  5. Numbness or Tingling: In rare cases, a ganglion pressing on a nerve may lead to numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers. This is more likely to occur if the ganglion exerts pressure on nearby nerves.

In conclusion, a ganglion is a common, usually benign cyst that forms near joints or tendons. Understanding its causes, types, and symptoms is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and management. While many ganglions do not require treatment, those causing pain or restricting joint movement may be addressed through various interventions, ranging from observation to surgical removal. Seeking medical advice for proper evaluation and guidance is essential for individuals experiencing symptoms related to ganglions.

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