The large, C-shaped sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the pelvic bones (the ilia) to the sacrum at the base of the spine. There are a pair of SI joints, one on either side of the tailbone. Serving as shock absorbers for the pelvis and low back, the SI joints move constantly when the body is in motion, [...]

Lumbar Spondylolisthesis What is arthritis of the lumbar spine (spondylolisthesis)? This is a condition in which a spine vertebral body slips forward or backward upon the vertebral body below. The word is derived from the Greek words spondylos, which means “spine” or “vertebra,” and listhesis, which means “to slip or slide.” If the vertebra slips too far [...]

Internal disc disruption is best understood in the lumbar spine, because it is more common in occurrence and the anatomy is easier to understand. It can cause episodes of severe low back pain with muscle spasms. Discogenic pain symptoms are usually exacerbated by sitting for long periods, bending and lifting.  In rare instances the symptoms may [...]

The spinal cord and nerve roots run through an opening in the vertebral column called the spinal canal. Because of the natural process of aging and spinal degeneration, the spinal canal may narrow, compressing the spinal cord and nerves in a process called central stenosis. The keyholes (intervertebral foramina) where the nerve roots exit the spine [...]

Intervertebral Discs - Herniated Disc and Sciatica What are the intervertebral discs and how do discs degenerate? They is a circular ligament called the annulus fibrosus surrounding a gel-like system called the nucleus pulposus that functions as a shock absorber between the vertebrae. The discs make up about one-fourth of the height of the spinal column. [...]