Conditions We Treat

NJNBI offers a wide range of treatment options for common conditions affecting all aspects of the spine including:

Adult Lumbar Spondlyolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis occurs when one of the vertebrae of the spine slides out of place, with the most common occurrence in the lower back (lumbar) region.

Cervical spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is the result of degenerative disc disease, where the facet joints within the spine begin to develop arthritis from increased pressure.

Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (aka spinal cord compression) is a condition where narrowing of the spinal canal occurs due to wear and tear over time.

Degenerative disc disease

Degenerative disc disease is not a disease but rather a term used to describe the normal changes in the spinal discs over the course of time.

Degenerative scoliosis

Also known as adult onset scoliosis, degenerative scoliosis is when the curvature of the spine is caused by the degeneration of the facet joints.

Degenerative spondylolisthesis

Degenerative spondylolisthesis usually occurs when one vertebra (back bone) slips forward over the vertebra below it and puts pressure on the nerve roots there in the lumbar region of the spine

Herniated discs

A herniated disc occurs when there is a rupture of the tissue that separates the vertebral bones of the spinal column.

Lower back pain

While there are a variety of causes for lower back pain, the majority of them result from the natural degeneration of parts of the spine.

Lumbar spinal stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, compressing the spinal cord and nerves in the lower back.

Neck pain

Neck pain is a common problem categorized as discomfort in the neck area. Read more about the common symptoms and treatment options available.

Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy is a condition that causes radiating pain into the extremities along the course of a spinal nerve root, commonly in the lower back and neck.

Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that causes pain that radiates through the sciatic nerve, which runs through the lower back then splits and travels down each leg.

Spinal tumors

A spinal tumor is an abnormal tissue growth typically associated with cancer. Learn about the 3 types of spinal tumors as well as diagnosis and treatments.

Spondylolytic spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis occurs when a vertebra becomes displaced and slips forward. The L4 and L5 segments are most commonly affected

Vertebral compression fracture

A vertebral compression fracture is a vertebra in the spine that has decreased in height, between 15 to 20 percent, due to a fracture.

Vertebral Compression Fracture Overview

Occurring in about 700,000 people each year, a vertebral compression fracture is a vertebra in the spine that has decreased in height (15 to 20 percent) due to fracture. This condition is typically caused by osteoporosis, a disease in which the bones of the body progressively lose their density, making them weaker and more prone to breaking.

Vertebral compression fractures occur almost twice as much as other conditions related to osteoporosis, such as a broken hip. In addition, while not all vertebral compression fractures are the result of osteoporosis, this condition is an indication of the presence of the disease.

What Causes A Vertebral Compression Fracture?

When the vertebrae of the spine weaken, they begin to shrink or narrow and lead to a “bent forward” look. In their weakened state, the vertebrae are at a high risk for fracture, which occurs when too much pressure is placed on them. This causes the front of the vertebrae to crack and lose height.

A vertebral compression fracture can be the result of an injury following a fall, but those with osteoporosis can incur a fracture doing everyday activities, such as reaching or coughing.

Symptoms of a Vertebral Compression Fracture

Pain is the primary symptom of a vertebral compression fracture and the pain will resonate close to the break itself. It predominantly occurs in the middle (thoracic) and low (lumbar) portions of the spine.

Pain resulting from this condition increases in severity with standing or sitting for long periods of time and can often be relieved by lying down or resting.

How Is Vertebral Compression Fracture Diagnosed?

Following a medical history and symptom breakdown, Dr. LaRocca will perform a physical examination to assess the alignment of the spine and posture. He will also place pressure on certain points of the back to determine the source of the pain and whether it is the result of muscle or bone injury. Meanwhile, a neurologic exam will be performed to test for reflexes and muscle strength.

Diagnostic testing may also be conducted to determine a diagnosis, including:

Bone mineral density scan (DEXA): DEXA scans are used to assess the extent of bone loss as well as any additional fractures located in the spine or other bones.
Bone scan: This test can pick up and array of bone conditions and can also show the age of the fracture.
Computed tomography (CT) scan: This diagnostic imaging test shows soft tissue and bone, allowing Dr. LaRocca to see if the fracture has reached the spinal canal.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This tests reveals damage to the tissue surrounding the fracture for a clearer and more detailed look to help determine how old the fracture is.
X-ray: X-rays are used to examine the alignment of the spine and confirm a diagnosis of a vertebral compression fracture. Other conditions may also appear in the process.

What Treatments Are Available for Vertebral Compression Fracture?

The experienced and dedicated team at NJNBI, led by Dr. LaRocca, offers comprehensive spine surgery treatment options for vertebral compression fractures including anterior and posterior lumbar fusion surgery.