A vertebral compression fracture (VCF) is a break in an individual bone, or vertebra, of the spine that causes the vertebra to collapse. A lumbar VCF affects the lower spine. When a VCF occurs, the ...

Kyphoplasty is a procedure that treats compression fractures in the spine. It relieves pain at the site, but some people may experience pain even after the procedure. Treating it includes taking ...

Several aspects of your leg's strength and stability can be determined with a straight leg raise test (SLR). A doctor performs a straightforward leg test by lying the patient flat on a bed and raising ...

Brandi Jones has over two decades of experience as a nurse in an acute care setting. Her clinical background includes pediatrics, medical-surgical, and women's health. She also specializes in ...

Back decompression aims to relieve back pain by taking pressure off compressed spinal discs. There are surgical and nonsurgical methods of back decompression. Nonsurgical therapy includes spinal ...

Lower back pain can contribute to many other physical and mental health conditions. Complications may depend on the cause of the back pain but include pain in other areas, arthritis, depression, and ...

Back pain usually comes from compression of the spine, according to physical therapist Dr. Casey Coleman. He said exercises that strengthen muscles supporting the back can help decompress the spine.

Back pain is wrapped in persistent myths, but many are far from the truth. From misconceptions about heavy lifting and bed ...

Medically reviewed by Mallory Christopherson, DC Key Takeaways Back spasms are involuntary muscle contractions. They can ...