Medical dictionary

What is a spine MRI? A spinal MRI is a type of scan which uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of your spine. An MRI is carried out by a radiologist, and is a safe procedure. Why might I need a spinal MRI? A spinal MRI is often advised if you suffer from back pain that won’t go away, or numbness in your legs or arms. Compared to a CT scan or X-ray, an

What is spinology? Spinology is a non-medical alternative practice system that aims to conserve the relationship between the spinal bones (vertebrae), maintaining normal pressure and ensuring that there is no interference with the central nervous system. Hence, spinology is concerned with the spinal column, which is made up of individual vertebrae which protects the spinal cord and nerves, and

What is spirometry? Spirometry is a test that measures the amount of air you exhale and the speed you exhale it at. It can help to diagnose lung diseases that might otherwise go undetected by other tests. During a spirometry you breathe through a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer, a device that measures the amount and frequency of air inhaled and exhaled during a specific time. The test

What does the spleen do?   The spleen is a small, fist-sized organ that’s filled with blood. It’s delicate and located underneath the left rib cage, close to the stomach. The spleen is a key component of the immune system as it contains white blood cells that kill bacteria and fight infections, called macrophages. The spleen also filters out old red blood cells from

What is split earlobe repair? Split earlobe repair is a minor procedure performed to bring together an earlobe that has separated into two or partially split. What can cause split earlobes? There are many possible causes of the splitting of one or both earlobes. Most often, wearing earrings is related to the problem. Possible causes of split earlobes include: Acute trauma:&

Spondyloarthritis, also known as spondyloarthrosis or osteoarthritis of the spine, is a degenerative disease affecting the cartilage of the joints in the cervical, lumbar or dorsal area of the spine. The causes of spondyloarthritis can be ageing, trauma, vertebral deformity, infections, obesity, genetics, postural problems and other conditions, such as rheumatism or collagen diseases. The mai

What is spondylolistheis? Spondylolisthesis is a condition affecting the spine where the vertebrae slip out of position, either forwards or backwards. In children, it mostly affects the L5 (5th lumbar vertebra) and the pelvis. To formulate an accurate diagnosis of spondylolistheis, your doctor will examine your spinal column or will have you raise your leg up, which could cause you some

What is spondylosis? The term “osis” refers to a disease process whilst “spond” refers to the spine. Spondylitis, therefore, is “itis” of the spine which refers to inflammation. Whilst some of the symptoms are shared in common, the underlying cause and treatment for this can vary considerably. Spinal degeneration is what is being referred to with spondylos

What are growth factors for sports injuries? Using plasma rich in growth factors is a technique used to treat injuries, especially sports injuries. Growth factors are proteins found in the blood which have a great capacity to accelerate the regeneration of tissue. Growth factors have biological effects such as cell proliferation and differentiation, regeneration of blood vessels (angiogenesi