The question facing anyone contemplating a book on low back pain is : Why write another book? It is certainly true that there are many books on this topic addressing a wide variety of audiences. Some books are all inclusive and scholarly in nature, others are personal descriptions of diagnostic and treat ment philosophies. This book is a combination of these two extremes. It represents our views on the low back problem, supported by scientific data. Most aspects on back pain presented in this book can be found in other texts. The organization of the material is unique, however. Our approach is to start by listening to and looking at the patient. It becomes apparent, then, that patients can be classified into one of the syn dromes described in chapters 4 through 13. We believe that this syndrome classification, which is quite simple to make clinically, will allow you to diagnose and treat your patients more effectively. To set the stage for the syndrome chapters the first three chapters of the book are generic to the remaining chapters. They reviewe the epidemiology, pathology, biomechan ics, etiologic theory, diagnostic methods, and treatment modalities applicable to the low back syndromes. They should be read before the syndrome chap ters. At the end of the book you will find four chapters that are specific to disease entities.

Hundreds of diagnostic images improve your clinical decision-making! Two-thirds of degenerative diseases of the vertebral column involve the lumbar spine. Magnetic resonance imaging plays a pivotal role in diagnosis and treatment. With more than 450 illustrations and 78 case studies illustrating various constellations of findings, this book provides a wealth of illustrations that guide the reader through the MR imaging of lumbar disk herniations and spinal stenosis: Impressive series of MR images illustrate both common and unusual findings, helping to enhance conceptual understanding and sharpen diagnostic perception. Clinical findings and progression are covered in addition to MRI findings, helping the reader to appreciate the correlations between clinical and imaging findings. The role of diagnostic imaging is addressed for specific disorders, helping to foster the more discriminating use of imaging procedures in the lumbar spine. The book concludes with a chapter on the current technique of performing CT-guided injections at the lumbar level.

A comprehensive account of the structure and function of the lumbar spine, which provides therapists with a basis for the diagnosis and management of low back pain and mechanical disorder. All material has been revised, references expanded and the chapter on biomechanics includes axes of rotation.

Offering in-depth coverage of an often-neglected topic, Revision Lumbar Spine Surgery identifies clinical problems and discusses recent major advances in this challenging area. Dr. Robert F. Heary and a team of international experts share their knowledge and experience with even the most difficult lumbar cases, helping you provide optimal outcomes for your patients. You’ll find authoritative guidance on indications, diagnosis, approaches, and follow-up, with a focus on the significant advances that have occurred over the past two decades in this fast-changing field. Identifies the clinical problems related to unsuccessful back spine surgery as well as indications, diagnosis, and new treatment options and advances in this complex area. Provides in-depth information on the multiple options that exist for most clinical situations: anterior, posterior, lateral, and combined anterior and posterior approaches. Covers methods of fixation, the use of interbody grafting, and surgical planning related to scar tissues, bleeding, and spinal fluid leaks. Discusses critical follow-up topics such as key clinical procedures, radiography, patient reported outcomes, and pain management. Includes timely chapters on robotics, bone density issues, medical fitness concerns, instrumentation options, imaging considerations, and much more.

This one-of-a-kind text describes the specific anatomy and neuromusculoskeletal relationships of the human spine, with special emphasis on structures affected by manual spinal techniques. A comprehensive review of the literature explores current research of spinal anatomy and neuroanatomy, bringing practical applications to basic science. A full chapter on surface anatomy includes tables for identifying vertebral levels of deeper anatomic structures, designed to assist with physical diagnosis and treatment of pathologies of the spine, as well as evaluation of MRI and CT scans. High-quality, full-color illustrations show fine anatomic detail. Red lines in the margins draw attention to items of clinical relevance, clearly relating anatomy to clinical care. Spinal dissection photographs, as well as MRIs and CTs, reinforce important anatomy concepts in a clinical context. Revisions to all chapters reflect an extensive review of current literature. New chapter on the pediatric spine discusses the unique anatomic changes that take place in the spine from birth through adulthood, as well as important clinical ramifications. Over 170 additional illustrations and photos enhance and support the new information covered in this edition.

Clinical and Radiological Anatomy of the Lumbar Spine 5e continues to offer practical, comprehensive coverage of the subject area in a unique single volume which successfully bridges the gap between the basic science of the lumbar region and findings commonly seen in the clinic. Prepared by an author of international renown, Clinical and Radiological Anatomy of the Lumbar Spine 5e provides clear anatomical descriptions of the individual components of the lumbar region, as well as the intact spine, accompanied by a full colour artwork programme. Detailed anatomical descriptions are followed by an explanation of the basic principles of biomechanics and spinal movement together with a comprehensive overview of embryology and the influence of age-related change in the lumbar region. The problem of low back pain and instability are also fully explored while an expanded section on medical imaging completes the volume. Clinical and Radiological Anatomy of the Lumbar Spine 5e offers practical, validated and clinically relevant information to all practitioners and therapists working in the field of low back pain and will be ideal for students and practitioners of chiropractic, osteopathic medicine and osteopathy, physiotherapy, physical therapy, pain medicine and physiatry worldwide. Presents a clear and accessible overview of the basic science relating to the structure and function of the lumbar spine Written by an internationally renowned expert in the fields of both clinical anatomy and back pain Describes the structure of the individual components of the lumbar spine, as well as the intact spine Goes beyond the scope of most anatomy books by endeavouring to explain why the vertebrae and their components are constructed the way they are Provides an introduction to biomechanics and spinal movement with special emphasis on the role of the lumbar musculature Explores both embryology and the process of aging in the context of spinal structure and function Explores mechanical back pain within the context of the structural and biomechanical principles developed earlier in the volume Extensive reference list allows readers seeking to undertake research projects on some aspect of the lumbar spine with a suitable starting point in their search through the literature Perfect for use both as an initial resource in undergraduate training in physiotherapy and physical medicine or as essential reading for postgraduate studies Greatly expanded section on medical imaging Increased elaboration of the regional anatomy of the lumbar spine Includes chapter on reconstructive anatomy, which provides an algorithm showing how to put the lumbar spine back together Presents an ethos of ‘anatomy by expectation’ - to show readers what to expect on an image, rather than being required to identify what is seen