Spine Health

Cervical arthritis means arthritis of the neck bones. Your neck has 7 vertebrae, and cushiony disks sit between the vertebrae. Over time or with injury, the disks can have problems and may bulge outward or get thinner.

The vertebrae in your spine are cushioned by soft disks. When one of the disks in your neck—the cervical area of your spine—ruptures, the result can be neck pain. Watch this video to find out the possible causes and recommended treatment.

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal narrows and pinches the nerves, resulting in back and leg pain. Spinal stenosis often occurs in older adults, although younger people who are born with a small spinal canal may also develop symptoms. This video explains the condition and what treatments are recommended.

Most vertebrae are separated by flexible disks of cartilage that act like shock absorbers and allow your spine to move. With age, your disks can lose their height and ability to cushion. This process is called disk degeneration. This video explains more about this condition and the treatments available.

Torticollis happens when muscles on one side of the neck contract (tighten). This causes the neck to twist or tilt to the side.

Back pain is 1 of the most common problems. The good news is that most people feel better in 1 to 2 weeks, and most of the rest in 1 to 2 months. Most people can remain active.

Learn about back muscle spasms and how to care for yourself when they occur.

Learn how to care for your back sprain or strain at home.

A contusion of the coccyx or sacrum causes swelling and some bleeding under the skin. This injury generally takes a few weeks to heal. Read on for details about how to care for yourself.

Here's what you need to know about treatment and home care for a back bruise.

Degenerative disk disease can affect the neck or back. It is one of the most common causes of low back pain.

Strong lower back and abdominal muscles work together to support your spine. These exercises will help strengthen the lower back.

The tailbone, or coccyx, is at the bottom of your spine. It is possible to break (fracture) this bone when you fall and land in a seated position. This injury takes about 4 weeks to heal. Read on for details on caring for this injury at home.

Learn how to care for yourself after being diagnosed with a vertebral compression fracture.

Learn how to care for a thoracic spine strain.