Our Doctors - The Spine Institute of Southern New Jersey

Glossary of Medical Terminology

Vertebrae - the bones which make up the spinal column. The vertebrae are divided into three major types based on their location - cervical (neck), thoracic (middle back) and lumbar (lower back).

X-ray - high-energy electromagnetic radiation used to image bones for fractures or misalignment of the vertebrae.

MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Uses magnetic fields and radio frequency waves to measure the amount of water in tissues. Unlike x-rays which can only image bones, MRI allows the soft tissues of the body to be seen. MRI takes numerous cross-sections of the body, allowing a three-dimensional view.

CT - computerized tomography, more commonly known as a cat scan. A cat scan is a computerized x-ray map of the neck or back, taken from several different angles. If the patient has a pacemaker, CT is used instead of MRI.

Disc Herniation - displacement of a disc from its proper position. Can cause significant pain when the displaced disc impinges (pushes) on nerves.

Degenerative - deterioration of a joint or disc. For example degenerative disc disease refers to premature aging of the

Spinal Instability - excessive mobility of vertebrae.

Sciatica - pain radiating down the back of the leg, often due to a herniated lumbar disc.

Epidural - epidural steroid injection or EDS. An injection in the neck or back used for temporary pain relief.

Spinal Stenosis - narrowing of the spinal canal. It can be due to either bone or disc disease. Can be congenital or acquired.

Fusion - removal of the disc material

Marlton Office: 538 Lippincott Drive, Marlton, NJ 08053 - P (856) 797-9161 - F (856) 797-3637

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Burlington Office: 1105 Sunset Road, Coopertown Plaza-Suites E&F, Burlington, NJ 08016

Linwood/Atlantic City Office: Atlantic Coast Orthopaedics Building, 401 New Rd Linwood, NJ 08221

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