A Patient’s Guide to
Understanding Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis
This page is aimed at patients suffering from spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. It is a brief, informative page detailing the description, anatomy, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis.
A Patient’s Guide to Low Back Pain
A patient information site with in depth information on low back pain. Information included is an introduction, anatomy, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and an interactive demo (in zipped .exe format).
American Paralysis Association
The American Paralysis Association site provides information on APA’s activities and extensive international research program to find a cure for paralysis.
American Syringomyelia Alliance Project
The American Syringomyelia Alliance Project (ASAP) is a non-profit organization who’s mission is to “improve the lives of persons affected by Syringomyelia, Chiari Malformations, and related disorders while we find a cure.” The ASAP web site provides some basic information on syringomyelia, recent news relating to the disorder, information on Chiari Malformation, a question and answer section with answers provided by a doctor, information on donation and volunteer opportunities, an online store, a large number of resources on various topics relating to syringomyelia, and information for medical professionals. This is probably the best source for syringomyelia information on the web.
Arachnoiditis Information Page
This site is provided by the National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a supporter of many research endeavors, and a provider of information via the internet. Information provided on arachnoiditis includes some general information on the disorder, treatment options, prognosis, and research being conducted in the field. Also provided is an external link to the PubMed search engine providing a large number of research articles on arachnoiditis.
Arachnoiditis Trust
“The Arachnoiditis Trust is the only registered charity for people with arachnoiditis.” The Arachnoiditis Trust uses fundraising to promote research, prevention, and support programs. The web site contains some information about the organization, arachnoiditis, and the anatomy of the spinal cord as it relates to arachnoiditis.
Arthritis.ca - Ankylosing Spondylitis (Can.)
The Arthritis Society prepared this site. It provides information in a Q & A format and details information about this condition, including facts about its frequency, causes, warning signs and treatment
Arthritis.ca - Ankylosing Spondylitis – Discussion Board (Chat Site)
Through The Arthritis Society of Canada, it is possible to join this active discussion board related to ankylosing spondylitis. There is a complete set of guidelines regarding use of the board, however, it is not moderated at all times. There is also an archive of messages that can be searched.
ASIF: Ankylosing Spondylitis International Federation
ASIF describes itself as a ”world-wide organisation of national self-help societies of patients suffering from ankylosing spondylitis or related diseases”. Using this site, it is possible to connect to many support groups including an information page about the Ontario Spondylitis Association – see http://www.asif.rheumanet.org/canadaon.htm
Ask Noah -- Scoliosis
This gateway is provided and maintained by NOAH, a patient information service comprised of several New York based medical and library services. This page provides a large number of links to reputable sources on scoliosis. Includes the basics, causes, diagnosis, care and treatment, complications and related concerns, research, and information resources. An excellent base for gathering information on scoliosis.
Ask Noah About: Osteoporosis
This site provides links to many articles about this disease. It is very current as it is updated on an ongoing basis. Articles relate to topics such as bone density testing, prevention and diagnosis, care and treatment, as well as clinical trials. There is also material on this disease as it relates to gender and race.
Ask Noah About: Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders
Prepared by the New York Online Access of Health, this site contains FAQs, causes, diagnoses, a glossary and statistics about spinal cord injuries. As well, it contains relevant information about complications that can be associated with such disorders, including urological issues, depression, skin and relationship issues. There are also links to sites that describe clinical trials and organizations.
Back Institute: Herniated Disc
This site is hosted by The Back Institute, an endoscopic discectomy clinic in Los Angeles, California. It contains information on herniated discs with emphasis on treatment by endoscopic discectomy.
Back Pain
Prepared by The National Library of Medicine, this site contains many useful links to information sources regarding general information, anatomy, clinical trials, coping, diagnosis/symptoms, disease management, prevention/screening and rehabilitation.
Back to Basics: A Guide to Back Injury Prevention and Recovery
Presented in PDF format, this 36-page booklet provides an in-depth look at back care. The Alberta Workers’ Compensation Board developed it. It covers causes of back pain, good posture, bending, lifting and carrying and exercises. Illustrations and diagrams support each section. The exercise section is particularly useful.
Back to Basics: Flatback
This site is provided by Robert Pashman, M.D., a spinal surgery specialist. The flatback page provides detailed information on the symptoms and treatment of flatback.
Bone Spurs (Osteophytes) and Back Pain
This site provides very thorough information regarding bone spurs. It is part of the spine-health.com portal, who's goal is, “…to provide users with a comprehensive, highly informative and useful resource for understanding, preventing, and seeking appropriate treatment for back and neck pain and related conditions” It aims to educate patients through peer reviewed material. Everyday language is used to describe what osteophytes are, as well as related conditions and symptoms. It has been included in this section, as bone spurs often occur in those with spinal stenosis.
Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors
The National Organization for Rare Disorders is a non-profit organization serving people with rare diseases and disorders. The brain and spinal cord tumors page contains a large amount of information on tumors. Provided are general information on spinal cord and brain tumors, causes, epidemiology, symptoms, diagnosis, biopsy information, treatment, research, and an extensive glossary of terms. Information provided is in-depth and easily read.
Brown-Sequard Syndrome
Prepared by the Health on the Net Foundation, this page provides a brief description of the disorder, as well as a list of alternative names. It is also possible to link to articles that relate to the etiology, therapy, diagnosis and prognosis for this disorder. It should be noted that the articles are quite technical in nature.
Canadian Syringomyelia Network (Support Site)
The Canadian Syringomyelia Network is a non-profit organization established in Scarborough, Ontario that “offer[s] a support network to people who suffer with Syringomyelia and to all individuals interested in this disorder.” A short page of frequently asked questions is provided for a brief overview of the disorder. The majority of the rest of the material is contact info and information on upcoming events. A good site for those wishing to become affiliated with the CSN, but not useful as a source of medical information.
Care for Your Back
BackCare, the National Organization for Healthy Backs, prepared this site. BackCare is a British non-profit agency. This page provides an exercise sheet, a diagram of the back providing anatomical information, as well as back care for specific target groups: women, drivers and people at work.
Care for Your Back
BackCare is the National Organization for Healthy Backs, a British non-profit agency. From this page, it is possible to link to two relevant pages: a general discussion about ‘back surgery’, as well as to ‘discography’, which is an investigative procedure to try to determine the location of a back problem. Both are concise fact sheets that provide useful information.
Cauda Equina Syndrome
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons prepared this fact sheet. It includes information about causes, diagnosis and treatment.
Cauda Equina Syndrome Resource Center
The Cauda Equina Syndrome Support Group is a grass-roots organization dedicated to providing information, support and increasing awareness of Cauda Equina Syndrome to individuals with this condition, their friends, family, the medical community, and the public at large. This site sponsors a private e-mail forum group.
Cervical Spondylosis
The National Library of Medicine prepared this concise encyclopedia article. It contains illustrations, as well as information about prognosis, complications, treatment, symptoms and prevention.
Cervical Spondylosis
Prepared by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, this site provides a general discussion about this disorder, including the various treatment options and the types of procedures that are used to diagnose it.
Cure Paralysis Now
This site is a database of documents on spinal cord paralysis and on paralysis cure. An extensive FAQ, chat forums, and lengthy listing of other Web resources are also provided.
Degenerative Disc Disease
MedicineNet.com is “an online, healthcare media publishing company”. The company has a network of 70 U.S. Board Certified physicians who provide information. The sites provide a comprehensive amount of material regarding degenerative disc disease and sciatica. There is a link to basic descriptive information about the conditions. As well, there are links to descriptions of specific treatments and diagnostic tools, including CAT scan, MRI scan and medication links. As well, there are links to information about related conditions, such as radiculopathy and bony enroachment.
Degenerative Disc Disease Condition Centre
Spine Universe is “dedicated to the mission of being the most comprehensive Internet portal for information on the spine”. Its editorial board is made up of medical spine specialists on an international level. This page provides many useful links to articles about both general degenerative disc disease, as well as articles about treatment, including both ‘conservative’ treatments and surgical options. A particularly interesting link takes the viewer to a video overview regarding anterior cervical fusion.
Digital Librarian: A Librarian’s Choice of the Best of the Web: Spinal Cord Injury Sources
This Digital Librarian site provides a selective, annotated listing of Web sites and documents.
Discussion Board - Osteoarthritis (Support Site)
Through The Arthritis Society of Canada, it is possible to join this discussion board geared towards those who suffer with osteoarthritis. It has a complete set of guidelines regarding use, however, is not moderated. There is also an archive of previous postings that can be searched.
Epidural Abscess
The National Library of Medicine prepared this enyclopedia entry. It contains a list of alternative names, symptoms, treatments, prognosis, prevention and complications.
Facts About SMA
This site is an online brochure provided by MDA Publications on spinal muscular atrophy. It includes an introduction to the disorder, frequently asked questions and answers, the history of research in spinal muscular atrophy, and information on how MDA can help individuals with SMA.
Flatback Syndrome
An informative website created by a flatback patient. This site includes very in depth information on flatback syndrome in easily understood terminology. Discussed are a general overview of flatback, causes, different kinds of flatback, which doctors treat flatback, symptoms, psychological consequences, treatment, surgery information, surgery success rates, lordosis restoration, and related medical problems.
Focus on Arthritis - Ankylosing Spondylitis
Also presented in Q & A format, this site provides basic information about ankylosing spondylitis. It has a link to 59 other related articles. From this page, it also possible to link to a message board related to this condition. The board has a set of rules of conduct and the administrators reserve the right to remove any inappropriate materials.
Focus on Arthritis - Ankylosing Spondylitis Support (Chat Site)
A well monitored support site, which offers the option of "chatting" (in a chat room) with others.
For Spine Patients
The North American Spine Society (NASS) prepared this site. NASS describes itself, as “a multidisciplinary medical organization that advances quality spine care through education, research and advocacy”. This page contains exercises for a healthy back, quizzes, as well as tips for maintaining a healthy back for specific target groups such as the elderly or pregnant women. It also features warning signs and risk scales for back problems.
General Information about SPINA BIFIDA
This fact sheet was prepared by the National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities. It defines the disorder, discusses its prevalence, characteristics and thoroughly discusses the educational implications. It also contains a reference list and organizations that relate to this disorder.
Handout on Health: Osteoarthritis
Prepared by the National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, this site provides eleven questions and answers concerning this condition. It covers topics such as diagnosis, treatment and current research
Index of Spinal Anatomy
Spine Universe is “dedicated to the mission of being the most comprehensive Internet portal for information on the spine”. Its editorial board is made up of medical spine specialists on an international level. This site provides very detailed anatomical information. It also has quick facts and video clips. The opening page has a list of glossary terms; by clicking on one the viewer is taken to a written description of the specified part of the back, as well as given an illustration. At the bottom of each link, is a list of related resources, which is extremely useful. Lastly, it contains a discussion about how the spine works and posture tips.
Infections of the Spine
Spine Universe is “dedicated to the mission of being the most comprehensive Internet portal for information on the spine”. Its editorial board is made up of medical spine specialists on an international level. This article is highly informative with references and suggested readings. There is information about discitis, vertebral osteomyelitis, epidural abscesses, with embedded links to further information. It also features a useful glossary. The article includes X-ray pictures of the diseases for further illustration.
Information on the Spine (Cervical, Lumbar, Thoracic)
A patient information site with in depth information on low back pain. Information included is an introduction, anatomy, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and an interactive demo (in zipped .exe format).
Introduction to Spinal Muscular Atrophy (Support Site)
This is the website for the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada. The material it contains is intended as a: “comprehensive overview, explanation and definition of spinal muscular atrophy disorders”. The material can be read online; it can also be downloaded into a WORD document, if desired. There is also material regarding “matching” with a buddy who can provide support – this is not an online support service, however. Interested participants must contact MDAC to register for the program.
Johns Hopkins Transverse Myelitis Center
This site, prepared by renowned Johns Hopkins Hospital, provides a vast amount of information about the condition, including a page describing other disorders that are related to transverse myelitis, definitions, a page of references, as well as a thorough discussion about available treatments.
KFS Connection Online (Chat Site) (Support Site)
This is a site people can join for support. The site requires that those who join must complete a profile of the person who has been diagnosed with KFS. The site notes that “the Members' Directory and Chat Connection foster the sharing of information and support between families or individuals with KFS”. There are also links to information resources about both KFS, as well as to other related anomalies.
Low Back Pain: Tips on Pain Relief and Prevention
Prepared by the American Academy of Family Physicians, this site offers tips for avoiding back strain. It also provides positioning suggestions while sitting, standing or sleeping, as well as exercises that can be done in order to prevent back problems.
Lower Back Pain Home Page
This is the homepage of Dr. Arnold J. Weil’s Rehabilitation Medicine center. It contains information about the doctor and the center as well as back pain information: anatomy and diagnostics, treatment, and other orthopaedic injuries.
Lumbar and Cervical Spinal Stenosis
At this site, a complete discussion of spinal stenosis is provided. The chairman of the Department of Orthopaedics at the University of California prepared it. It includes descriptions of the various techniques used to diagnose this disorder and discussion regarding surgical and non-surgical treatment options.
Lumbar Spinal Canal Stenosis: A Common Cause of Back and Leg Pain
This page is provided by The American Academy of Family Physicians. It is a general overview of spinal stenosis and its relation to back and leg pain. Information is not in depth and is provided in very simple terms.
Medline - Ankylosing Spondylitis (U.S.)
The authoritative National Library of Medicine prepared this concise encylopedia entry. It contains illustrations, as well as information about prognosis, treatment, complications, prevention and testing.
Model Spinal Cord Injury Care Systems Doorway
The Doorway describes the Model Spinal Cord Injury Care Systems’ research and demonstration projects delivering medical, vocational, and other rehabilitation services to SCI individuals. There are links to individual System Web sites where available. Many of these sites offer newsletters and patient education materials as well as describe system health care, research, educational, and support activities.
Myelomeningocele (Support Site)
The authoritative National Library of Medicine prepared this concise encyclopedia article. It contains illustrations, as well as information about prognosis, complications, treatment, symptoms and prevention.
National Anylosing Spondylitis Society (Support Site)
This site provides a substantial amount of information, including a page of exercises, an extensive FAQ page, how to live a normal life with the condition, suggestions to better manage it and an extensive forum page. The forums are moderated and there is an FAQ section to accompany it.
National Institutes of Health - Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases – National Resource Centre (Support Site)
This site provides a lot of research about osteoporosis. It includes a listserv so that participants can obtain ongoing news information. It also has fact sheets about various bone diseases, including osteoporosis and research bibliographies to enable people to follow up with further research. A particularly valuable link is to the ‘What’s New’ page, which provides press releases and breaking information about this condition.
National Osteoporosis Foundation (Support Site)
This is an American site that provides a wealth of information including latest news updates regarding treatment, and links to support groups. Advocacy is also an important component of this organization, so there is detailed material regarding this aspect as well.
National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA)
Includes excellent factsheets, links to other Web sites, summaries of news events involving people with disabilities, and electronic bulletin boards and chat forums. NSCIA’s program, In Touch With Kids, is a good source for information on pediatric SCI.
New Treatments for Back and Spine
Spine Universe is “dedicated to the mission of being the most comprehensive Internet portal for information on the spine”. Its editorial board is made up of medical spine specialists on an international level. From this page, it is possible to link to a vast number of materials related to spine treatment. There are discussions regarding chiropractic care, lumbar epidural injections, drugs, as well as alternative and surgical links as well.
NINDS Brown-Sequard Syndrome Information Page
Prepared by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, this site provides concise, general information about this syndrome, including prognosis, treatment, research and related organizations.
NINDS Klippel Feil Syndrome Information Page
Prepared by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders, this site profiles the disorder, including information about prognosis and ongoing research. There is also a list of support organizations related to this disorder.
NINDS Tethered Spinal Cord Information Page
Prepared by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders, this page provides an overview of the syndrome, including a general description, treatment, prognosis and current research. There are also links to related organizations
NORD -- Arachnoiditis
The National Organization for Rare Disorders is a non-profit organization serving people with rare diseases and disorders. Their page on arachnoiditis includes some alternative names for the disorder, different classifications of it, and a general discussion. This site lacks in depth, but is a good starting point to building a knowledge base on the disease.
Northwest Regional Spinal Cord Injury System, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine -- Seattle
This site contains information on the University’s research and rehabilitation programs, full-text patient pamphlets, reports of the University’s monthly speaker series on living with SCI, and articles from their quarterly newsletter (with cumulative index) including abstracts of articles on SCI-related topics derived from MEDLINE.
Orthoseek – Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis
Orthoseek articles are authored by orthopedic surgeons affiliated with the Pediatric Orthopedic Institute and Stratford Orthopedics and Rehabiliation. The information provided on the spondylolysis/spondylolisthesis page includes a description (including diagrams), causes, symptoms, prevention, treatment, and prognosis. A moderate depth of information is provided and all information is in lay language.
Orthospine Medical Topics
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on low back pain including diagrams. A link is provided to some frequently asked questions and answers about low back pain. Moderately in depth information is provided and this is a good starting point for learning more about low back pain.
Orthospine Medical Topics -- Kyphosis
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on kyphosis including the different classifications: congenital kyphosis, Scheuermann’s disease, and kyphosis after fracture. There is also a link to some frequently asked questions about kyphosis. The information provided is an overview so further information may be required for more in depth knowledge.
Orthospine Medical Topics -- Scoliosis
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on scoliosis including diagrams of different types of deformity. Provided at the bottom of the page are internal links to further information on specific classes of scoliosis: idiopathic, early onset & juvenile, congenital, neuromuscular, and adult scoliosis. Each link provides information and diagrams for the specific type of scoliosis as well as a link to frequently asked questions. Moderately in depth information is provided and this is a good starting point for learning more about scoliosis.
Orthospine Medical Topics -- Spondylolisthesis
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on spondylolisthesis in both adults and children. Some diagrams and x-rays are shown for ease of comprehension. The information provided is an overview and further information may be required for more in depth knowledge.
Orthospine Medical Topics – Endoscopic Surgery
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on endoscopic surgery in the treatment of scoliosis. There is also a link to some frequently asked questions about endoscopy. This page does not provide much detail on the procedures of the surgery but is intended as an overview of endoscopy for the treatment of scoliosis.
Orthospine Medical Topics – Flat Back
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on flat back, including diagrams. A link is provided to some frequently asked questions and answers about flat back. Also, there is a link to a case study of flat back, which includes detailed clinical information about a specific case of flat back. Moderately in depth information is provided and this is a good starting point for learning more about flat back.
Orthospine Medical Topics – Herniated Disc
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on herniated disc, including detailed diagrams. A link is provided to some frequently asked questions and answers about herniated discs. Moderately in depth information is provided and this is a good starting point for learning more about herniated (slipped) discs.
Orthospine Medical Topics – Low Back Pain
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on low back pain including diagrams. A link is provided to some frequently asked questions and answers about low back pain. Moderately in depth information is provided and this is a good starting point for learning more about low back pain.
Orthospine Medical Topics – Revision Surgery
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on revision surgery (secondary surgery on the spine). Fairly detailed information is provided about various problems that can be encountered during spinal surgery and the procedures that are followed to correct them. This is an excellent site for anyone undergoing either revision surgery or undergoing any spinal surgery and wanting to learn more about the difficulties they may encounter.
Orthospine Medical Topics – Spinal Aging
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” This page provides some introductory information on spinal aging. No treatment information is provided but rather it addresses the issues relating to spinal aging.
Orthospine Medical Topics – Spinal Stenosis
“An educational site developed for the understanding of spinal problems.” The spinal stenosis page contains information on the anatomy of stenosis including diagrams for easy comprehension. There is also a link provided for some frequently asked questions about the disorder. Moderately in depth information is provided and this is a good starting point for learning more about spinal stenosis.
OSH Answers: Back Injury Prevention
Prepared by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, this site is intended for those who do manual materials handling as part of their job. It is presented in Q & A format, and provides detailed information regarding the work environment and how it can be adjusted to prevent back injuries.
Osteoarthritis
This site, prepared by The Arthritis Society of Canada, provides information about this disease. It includes information about the warning signs, its prevalence, causes and how it can best be treated.
Osteoarthritis
The authoritative National Library of Medicine prepared this concise encyclopedia article. It features illustrations, a well as a listing of alternative names and information about prognosis, treatment, complications, prevention, as well as information about support groups.
Osteoarthritis
The National Library of Medicine also put this interactive tutorial together. It requires Flash to view it. It allows the user to work through a series of informational screens regarding anatomy, general information about arthritis, symptoms and causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment. Users are periodically tested on previously shown material, with immediate feedback regarding the answers.
Osteoarthritis (Degenerative arthritis)
This site is part of MedicineNet, Inc., which “is an online, healthcare media publishing company”. It provides easy-to-read, in-depth, authoritative medical information for consumers via a “network of robust, user-friendly, interactive web sites”. Prepared in Q & A format, this site provides general information about osteoarthritis including causes, treatment and diagnosis.
Osteomyelitis
The authoritative National Library of Medicine prepared this concise encyclopedia article. It features illustrations, as well as information about causes, risks, symptoms and treatment options.
Osteomyelitis (Support Site)
This site focuses on children’s disorders. It provides a general overview of osteomyelitis, both its causes and treatment. There is also a link from this page to a discussion forum for osteomyelitis. The discussion forum is intended for parents to communicate with one another; it is not moderated, however, the web administrators reserve the right to remove any offensive material.
Osteomyelitis, a Spinal Infection
This article provides an overview of osteomyelitis: symptoms, treatment (both conservative and surgical) and diagnosis.
Osteoporosis
Prepared by The Arthritis Society of Canada, this page profiles this disorder. It includes information about its prevalence, causes, warning signs and what can be done to manage it.
Osteoporosis
The authoritative National Library of Medicine prepared this concise encylopedia article. It contains illustrations, as well as information about its prognosis, symptoms, complications, treatments and tests.
Osteoporosis
Information on this site is provided by the National Institute of Health. There are a selection of links concerning news, general disease information, diagnosis/symptoms, disease management, nutrition and prevention/screening.
Osteoporosis Online
This is the website of the Osteoporosis Society of Canada. It provides description, prevention and diagnosis information about osteoporosis, as well as FAQs, a calcium calculator, a glossary and a listing of calcium-rich recipes.
Paget Foundation
The Paget Foundation is a “national voluntary health agency”. This site provides a wealth of material about this disorder. It is possible to download a whole booklet about it; as well there are fact sheets and Q & As about it. The fact sheets cover topics such as conditions related to Paget, pain management, surgery and updates on medical therapy.
Paget’s Disease
Prepared by The Arthritis Society of Canada, this page provides a profile of this disease. It includes material about its prevalence, causes, the warning signs and how it can best be managed.
Paget’s Disease
The authoritative National Library of Medicine prepared this concise encyclopaedia article. It contains illustrations, as well as information about alternative names, prevention, symptoms, treatment and support groups.
Paget’s Disease
Presented in Q & A format, this site provides general information about Paget’s Disease: diagnosis, symptoms, drug therapy and the relationship between Paget’s Disease and osteoporosis.
Paget’s Disease of Bone
The National Institutes of Health, Osteoporosis, and Related Bone Diseases-National Resource Centre prepared this page. It includes links to material about the disease, including sarcoma and other tumours in Paget’s disease, when surgery is appropriate and general management of the disease.
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA)
This site offers information on PVA’s active programs in advocacy, education, government relations, research, sports and recreation, and veterans’ benefits. Also the site includes documents on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and on accessible housing, transportation, and workplaces. Online article libraries and tables of contents are provided for the two PVA journals: Sports ‘n Spokes and PN: Paraplegia News.
Questions and Answers About Scoliosis in Children and Adolescents
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases prepared this site. It currently includes eleven questions and answers related to a variety of scoliosis-related concerns, including questions about the right brace to use, whether people can exercise with scoliosis, etc.
Questions and Answers About Spinal Stenosis
Presented by the National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), this page provides thirteen questions and answers about spinal stenosis, including questions about treatment options and their related risk factors, long-term outcomes and research that is ongoing by NIAMS.
Rehab Team Site, POINTIS (Point-of-Care, Team-Based Information System), Louis Calder Memorial Library, University of Miami School of Medicine
This web site offers manuals for patients, families and for health care providers with information on spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. It also includes links to other spinal cord and traumatic brain injury sites. The handbooks are of exceptional quality.
Sciatica
MedicineNet.com is “an online, healthcare media publishing company”. The company has a network of 70 U.S. Board Certified physicians who provide information. The sites provide a comprehensive amount of material regarding degenerative disc disease and sciatica. There is a link to basic descriptive information about the conditions. As well, there are links to descriptions of specific treatments and diagnostic tools, including CAT scan, MRI scan and medication links. As well, there are links to information about related conditions, such as radiculopathy and bony enroachment.
Sciatica
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons prepared this site. It provides a good general overview of sciatica as a condition, as well as general treatment options. The description of symptoms is a particularly well-written section. The language allows a person to understand quickly what the symptoms feel like.
Sciatica
The National Library of Medicine prepared and maintains this site. It provides many links to information sources regarding sciatica, including material on clinical trials, diagnosis and symptoms of sciatica and related directories and organizations.
Sciatica Condition Centre
Spine Universe is “dedicated to the mission of being the most comprehensive Internet portal for information on the spine”. Its editorial board is made up of medical spine specialists on an international level. This page provides many links to relevant articles concerning aspects of sciatica including a large section of interesting links to articles related to recovery, such as the effect smoking has on spine fusions and a review of aquatic therapy.
Scoliosis Research Society
“The Scoliosis Research Society has prepared this web site to provide patients, and in the case of children, their parents, with a better understanding of scoliosis, its diagnosis and management.” It includes a very detailed library of information on scoliosis, kyphosis and other spinal disorders. There is also a doctor listing, a glossary of terms, a newsletter, and information on meetings. This is likely the best patient information page for scoliosis and other spinal disorders available on the web.
Scoliosis World (Support Site)
Scoliosis World features a large volume of links categorized into 30 headings for specific information on scoliosis. Also available is a listing of the latest news on scoliosis as well as access to older news archives. An unmediated message board and chat function are presented as well as several polls.
Scoliosis-Medical (Support Site)
This is a discussion group specifically for those with scoliosis. Its focus is on those recovering from surgery, however, anyone with scoliosis, or their parents are welcome to join. It is an active board, with ongoing threads. The group is moderated and there is detailed information regarding acceptable behaviour while online.
Spina Bifida
Information on this site is supported by the National Institute of Health. There are a selection of links concerning news, general disease information, diagnosis/symptoms, disease management, research, directories, and prevention/screening.
Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Canada (Support Site)
This site is the Canadian Association’s web page. It has a page of Q & A’s and links to a wide range of related materials. It should be noted, however, that this website has not been updated for some time.
Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Ontario (Support Site)
SBHAO has been around for 29 years. Its website includes material about both conditions. As well, there is a page of related links and a message board, which appears to be in the early stages of development. There is also material about SBHAO’s programs and services related to research, advocacy, awareness and care.
Spina Bifida Association of America (Support Site)
This site provides facts and medical updates, as well as an extensive list of links and related resources. There is a page that provides personal accounts from parents of children who have this disease. Through this site, it is also possible to join a listserv to get ongoing updates regarding this condition.
Spinal Cord Diseases
Provided by MEDLINEplus Health Information, this site provides links to materials related to diagnosis, research, pictures/diagrams, diagnosis/symptoms, as well as links to specific spinal cord diseases.
Spinal Cord Industry, Stroke and Paralysis Guide to Support Organizations (Support Site)
Neurological Services through Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School prepared this site. It provides a series of links to support organizations for a variety of spinal cord injuries. The links are to American-based organizations.
Spinal Cord Injury Information Network (University of Alabama – Birmingham)
The Spinal Cord Injury Information Network has an extensive listing of Web sites and resources including books, graphics, health care facilities, organizations, pamphlets, periodicals, and videos on a wide variety of topics relevant to SCI individuals. Entries are annotated and links are provided where available. The resource is searchable by keyword or by topic. The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center and the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center in Secondary Complications in SCI are also available at this site.
Spinal Cord Injury Resources
This site consists of a listing of SCI Web resources including articles, factsheets, bulletin boards, health care facilities, organizations, research, newsletters and magazines, and e-mail list groups. Also available is a diagram of the anatomy of the spine and spinal cord and the areas of the body associated with each section of the cord.
Spinal Cord Tumors
This site is provided by the Hyman-Newman Institute for Neurology and Neurosurgery. It provides a large volume of information on spinal tumors under the following headings: Introduction, History of Treatment Approaches, Candidates for Treatment, Surgery, Results, Complications, and Conclusion. The information provided is very in-depth, but can become technical in its terminology. This is an excellent site for those familiar with the disease and seeking information on treatment.
Spinal Cord Tumors Support (Support Site)
This is a support site maintained and moderated by a person with a spinal cord tumor. It contains a page of personal stories from a number of members, a discussion board, a library of articles, books, and websites on spinal cord tumors, and scheduled chat sessions. An excellent support site with a good volume of medical information in the library.
Spinal Diseases
Provided by MEDLINEplus Health Information, this site provides links to materials related to diagnosis, research, pictures/diagrams, diagnosis/symptoms, as well as links to specific spinal diseases.
Spinal Diseases and Disorders – Spinal Epidural Abscess
Prepared by UCLA Neurosurgery, this site profiles the condition. It discusses the locations of such abscesses, the clinical features, causes of the infection, as well as a discussion regarding diagnosis and treatment.
Spinal Fusion Surgery
The North American Spine Society prepared this site. NASS describes itself as “a multidisciplinary medical organization that advances quality spine care through education, research and advocacy”. The information regarding this surgical option is presented in Q & A format. It features discussion about the technique in general, when it is appropriate, expected recovery time and long-term results.
Spinal Infection: Epidural Abscesses
Spine Universe is “dedicated to the mission of being the most comprehensive Internet portal for information on the spine”. Its editorial board is made up of medical spine specialists on an international level. This article contains a thorough description of the above condition: how it is diagnosed and a thorough discussion of complications, which may arise. This article also uses technical language.
Spinal Procedures
This page is provided by the Center for Spine Disorders located in Thornton, Colorado. The spinal procedures page provides a list of frequently asked questions and answers about scoliosis and the treatment of scoliosis. An excellent source of information for anyone undergoing scoliosis treatment and looking for information about the procedures.
Spinal Stenosis
This site is provided through Medline Plus, from the U.S. National Library of Medicine. The information provided includes an extensive “Questions and Answers” section on spinal stenosis, the anatomy of the spine, clinical trials, treatment information, directories of both neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons, a list of organizations relevant to spinal stenosis, and a number of documents on specific aspects of the disorder.
Spinal Stenosis
An About.com weekly feature on spinal stenosis. This page provides answers to the following: “what is spinal stenosis?”, “who gets spinal stenosis?”, “what causes spinal stenosis?”, “what are other causes of spinal stenosis?”, “what are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?”, “how is spinal stenosis diagnosed?”, and “what is the treatment for spinal stenosis?”. The information provided is moderately in depth and contains diagrams for easier understanding. There are excessive links to other topics and sponsors of the web site making the page difficult to navigate.
Spine - Health: Spinal Procedures
This site is provided by spine-health.com. This site provides information and animations for several surgical spinal procedures, along with additional related information regarding spinal problems.
Spine Fact Sheets
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons prepared this site. It has links to materials on topics such as general back pain exercises, an exercise guide specifically geared to the lower back, back pain prevention, kids and backbacks, and lifting techniques.
Spine Health
Spine Health was created by a team of medical professionals to provide credible, peer-reviewed information on back and neck pain and related conditions. This site provides an impressive volume of information on a large number of topics relating to back and neck conditions. An excellent starting point for learning about any spine-related condition. Highly Recommended.
Spine Surgery
This site is administered by Spine Surgery, a spinal disorder center in Louisville, Kentucky. Their website contains frequently asked questions about the spine and spinal disorders, papers, news, and reports about pedicle screws, articles and information on spinal procedures and disorders, and a Virtual Grand Rounds section for physicians to post comments on “interesting spine cases”. The information provided is very in-depth, and rarely of a technical nature.
Spondylitis Association of America (Support Site)
The Spondylitis Association of America is “a national non-profit volunteer organization, is dedicated to the eradication of ankylosing spondylitis and related diseases through education, advocacy, awareness and research. Their site includes such items as FAQs, research news and an electronic message board, which includes as one of its features an archive of past messages. The forums are moderated.
Starbright World (Chat Site) (Support Site)
This site provides information about a program that has been set up for seriously ill children. While most participants are children in American hospitals, it is noted that The Hospital for Sick Children is a member of this program. Through this program, children between the ages of 7 – 18 who have transverse myelitis can connect with other children via email or chat and share experiences.
Syringomyelia Fact Sheet
This fact sheet is provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. It contains general information on syringomyelia including a definition, causes, the different kinds of syringomeyelia, diagnosis, treatment, research, and directions for finding further information. Great depth is not attained in this page as it is intended as a fact sheet.
Syringomyelia Facts
Syringomyelia Facts provides some basic information on syringomyelia including a definition, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and different forms of syringomyelia. There is also contact information to request additional information from various organizations and information on studies and grants available.
Tethered Cord Syndrome
This page was prepared by the University of Missouri Health Care system. It contains information about signs and symptoms, diagnostic tests, surgery and expected results, pain control and what to expect after hospital discharge. The description focuses on treatment of children.
The Canadian Chiropractic Association
This is the official web site of The Canadian Chiropractic Association. It contains some information about chiropractics in general, treatment information, prevention of back problems, the history of chiropractic, current research, education information, and commercial links.
The Merck Manual – Spinal Cord
This is an on-line version of Merck’s Home Edition of the Manual of Medical Information. The page is a copy of chapter 69, Spinal Cord Disorders. It provides general information about the spinal cord and the spine, spinal cord injuries, spinal cord compression, cervical spondylosis, spinal cord and brain cysts, acute transverse myelitis, interruption of the blood supply, spinal hematoma, nerve root disorders, and ruptured disc. Each section contains symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment information.
The Scoliosis Association Inc. (Support Site)
Located in Florida, this site is intended as an international information and support site. It contains links to many support group chapters, including one for an Ontario chapter. There are also links to material about the different types of scoliosis, as well as to ‘BackTalk’, which provides updated news concerning this disorder.
Transverse Myelitis Association (Chat Site) (Support Site)
This organization is non-profit; the Association “facilitates support and networking opportunities amongst TM families; provides educational information functions as a clearinghouse for articles and research literature about the TM diagnosis; and investigates, advocates for and supports research and innovative treatment efforts”. Its website provides newsletters, information about specialists who work in the field, drug treatments, and other related information. This site also provides a link to support features, which are an opportunity for those with transverse myelitis to link up with others with the condition. It features a listserv, a very active discussion board, as well as live chat. There is also an extensive archive of messages and notices dating back to 1996. While there are chat FAQs and guidelines regarding use, it does not appear to be moderated.
Transverse Myelitis Fact Sheet
This page is set up in Q & A format. Prepared by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, it features information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. It also has a discussion of current research and a list of related organizations.
Transverse Myelitis: A Guide for Patients and Carers
Presented in PDF format, this is an easy to read 10-page booklet prepared by the British Brain and Spine Foundation with discussion of causes, diagnosis, treatment, recovery, the future and a glossary of terms. Simon Hawke, a Clinical senior lecturer in Neurology and Neuroimmunology Imperial School of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital, wrote it.
Understanding Spinal Muscular Atrophy (Support Site)
This site is provided by Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (Families of SMA), an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that promotes research on SMA, provides information and support for families, and educating the public about SMA. The site provides an impressive volume of information on SMA in articles ranging from general information to very specific aspects of the disorder. Also provided are a message board, current news relating to SMA, research information, a kid’s corner, a photo album of members of the Families of SMA, and articles on grief and loss, genetics, and fundraising. There is a link to the Canadian chapter of the FSMA. The Canadian website contains less information then its parent site, but include more news relevant to Canadian citizens. This is likely the best source of information on SMA on the web.
Virtual Paraplegia
Virtual Paraplegia is a listing of international Web sites for associations, health care facilities, medical articles and bibliographies, discussion groups, sports, travel, transportation, pharmacology, research, and individuals’ home pages.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Prepared by the renowned Mayo Clinic, this page provides information about this disease: symptoms, prognosis, treatment, self-care, coping skills, as well as a discussion about complementary and alternative medicine.
What is Osteoporosis?
Prepared by the well-regarded Mayo Clinic, this site provides information concerning signs and symptoms of osteoporosis, as well as treatment, which includes self-care options. It also has useful related links embedded into the text.
What is Spina Bifida?
This page of informational material is provided by the renowned Mayo Clinic’s website. There are materials concerning signs and symptoms, risks, complications, treatments, prevention and coping skills. It provides descriptions of the three different forms. It also has pictures of the spine to illustrate the condition.
Your Health is in Your Control
Spine Universe is “dedicated to the mission of being the most comprehensive Internet portal for information on the spine”. Its editorial board is made up of medical spine specialists on an international level. This page provides a variety of healthy back material including workstation ergonomics for adults and children, back care on airplanes and back care when shovelling snow.
Your Health: Spina Bifida
This site’s information comes from the Calgary Health Region. It provides a page of general information, which provides a good overview regarding this condition. Within the text, there are links to related items of interest, for example to material about folic acid and amniocentesis.
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