The Essentials of the Spine

Students, residents, and general practitioners will welcome this concise yet complete primer on the spine, and appreciate its expert and clear guidance on management of spinal conditions. The book provides the basics on epidemiology, physical examination, diagnosis, and treatment of cervical and lumbar problems. Its special strength is the attention it pays to the specificity and sensitivity of various tests for spinal problems, as well as the efficacy and costs of the various treatments for these problems. Coverage includes epidemiology; classification and pathophysiology of spinal pain syndromes; pathology of spinal disorders; understanding the accuracy of diagnostic tests; history and physical examination; diagnostic imaging; diagnosis and management of cervical and lumbar disease; management of syndromes related to herniated discs; management of syndromes related to spinal stenosis; and deformities of the spine. A helpful question and answer section rounds up the book.