A transitional vertebra which is typically called a Bertolotti’s syndrome as the transverse process off of the lowest vertebra o one side enlarges and articulates (rests on) on sacrum. This is called a transverse-alar articulation and commonly is not symptomatic but on rare occasions can cause pain. The key for diagnosis is to have unilateral pain only on that side and have an MRI which notes inflammation in that transverse-alar articulation. This is noted by highlighting of the joint on the STIR images.
Most of the time, there is another source of pain that has been missed and the Bertolotti’s syndrome takes the blame even though its innocent.
Since you are from Italy, an office visit might be difficult. I have a program called a long-distance consult where I evaluate you from afar. You can call my office number (the 888 number won’t work from out of the USA) and arrange this with my office manager,
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.
