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Laser Spine Institute

Laser Spine Institute's minimally invasive procedures are the safe and effective alternative to open neck or back surgery.

Our revolutionary endoscopic surgical techniques are proven to help patients return to their normal, active lifestyles. Every month, more people come to Laser Spine Institute for help in relieving their neck and back pain than to any other spine surgery center in the world.
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There are many spinal conditions that are treated at the Laser Spine Institute. All procedures are uniquely designed and developed to provide patients with the best possible medical care.More on endoscopic spine procedures
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Laser Spine Institute has amazing care with miraculous results.I am pain free at last and looking forward to once again living a full life.
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What is minimally invasive spine surgery and can this procedure help you?You can get these answers by attending a Free Educational Seminar.
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Annular Tear
- Overview
- Definition
Symptoms
- Annular Tear Symptoms
  - Annular Tear Pain
Causes
- Annular Tear Causes
Types
Diagnosis
- Annular Tear Diagnosis
  - Annular Tear MRI
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Prevention
- Annular Tear Prevention
Risk Factors
- Annular Tear Risk Factors
Articles & Resources
- Articles about Annular Tears

Annular Tear Causes and Symptoms

Annular Tear Causes

An annular tear causes most patients to experience pain that can vary from moderate to severe. Discomfort is often associated with this condition because the outer third of an intervertebral disc’s annulus pulposus (or tough exterior) is highly innervated. Pain in the neck and/or back can occur when the nerves become disrupted and irritated as a result of an annular tear.

Causes

The following factors can lead towards the development on an annular tear:

Aging – Due to the continued stress and pressure that is placed on intervertebral discs, they can start to break down over time. By the time a person reaches their thirties, their discs have begun to weaken and dry out, making them susceptible to an annular tear.
Traumatic injury – High-impact sports (including hockey, gymnastics and football) can make the neck and back prone to injury. Automobile accidents can also cause traumatic injury that leads to an annular tear. Excessive force, no matter the cause, can lead to injury of the annulus pulposus.

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Symptoms

The annular tear causes listed above can bring on a number of symptoms. Most patients complain of pain in the neck or back. Depending on the location of the affected disc, traveling pain, weakness and tingling may also be felt in the extremities. It is worth noting that some patients are completely asymptomatic, though the majority do feel some degree of pain.

Most patients can find relief from pain and discomfort associated with an annular tear through conservative treatments such as medication and hot/cold therapy. Patients should speak with a doctor or back specialist to learn about a variety of treatment methods and prevention techniques?to find one that is tailored to their specific needs.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.

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