Briz Brain & Spine

18/11/2025

New research from Italy suggests Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s may share early warning signs — like changes in smell or sleep — long before typical symptoms appear. Early detection could help guide prevention and care. Read more:

In Parkinson’s disease, early signs such as constipation, loss of smell, and REM sleep disturbance may appear up to a decade before tremors begin.

12/11/2025

Super Spine Stuff – Have you ever wondered why your spine has an S-shape? It’s not just for good posture. The curves act like built-in shock absorbers, protecting your vertebrae from the constant forces of movement, gravity and impact. They also help distribute your body weight evenly, allowing different muscles to share the work of keeping you upright and balanced. And because the vertebrae aren’t stacked directly on top of each other, those curves reduce pressure on the discs – helping them cushion and move freely rather than carry the full load. So next time you bend, lift, or twist, remember — it’s that clever S-shape keeping everything in balance!

05/11/2025

Did you know some of the tools used in spine surgery are surprisingly similar to those found in your everyday workshop? And that arm pain can actually be caused by a problem in your neck? Dive into this and more in our latest newsletter – meet Dr Mathew Davis and load up on more Super Spine Stuff to boost your trivia game!

Keep up to date with the latest news from Briz Brain & Spine by viewing our current newsletter below. To update your personal details and newsletter subscription preferences, or to unsubscribe from any Briz Brain & Spine communications, please email info@brizbrain.com.au.

28/10/2025

Super Spine Stuff – the human body’s blueprint includes 33 vertebrae, with five making up the lumbar spine – the powerhouse of your lower back. But did you know that around 10% of people have a sixth lumbar vertebra? This harmless congenital variation, called lumbarisation, occurs during early fetal development. Most people with an L6 never know it’s there — it usually causes no symptoms and may even enhance flexibility or provide extra shock absorption in the lower back. But for some, the extra vertebra can subtly change the mechanics of the lumbosacral region, affecting posture, mobility, or spinal alignment. Whether you have five or six lumbar vertebrae, it’s just another way we are all unique!

19/10/2025

Did you know spinal fractures are often one of the first signs of osteoporosis? The tell-tale curved back or gradual loss of height can indicate the spine is compressing and collapsing due to reduced bone density — and it can happen without you even realising it. The good news? You can help protect your bones with a calcium-rich diet, a little sunshine for vitamin D, and regular weight-bearing exercise like walking, running, or lifting weights. This World Osteoporosis Day, let’s move towards a stronger, fracture-free future!

15/10/2025

Every year, around 4,000 Australians are diagnosed with a brain tumour. Whether benign or malignant, the diagnosis brings uncertainty and anxiety for patients and their families. The Brain Tumour Alliance Australia (BTAA) provides vital support, advocacy, and information to those affected. Their 2025 Patient Education & Information Forum brought together leading experts to share the latest insights in care and treatment. You can now watch all of the presentations on YouTube.

Professor Haryana DhillonFaculty of Science, School of Psychology, University of SydneyTitle: Lessons from BRAINS: Where to with supportive care for people w...

08/10/2025

Super Spine Stuff - Remember the saying, “Step on a crack, break your mother’s back”? Cracking your back generally won’t break it. The pop you hear when you stretch or twist isn’t made by your bones moving out of place – it’s actually caused by a process called cavitation. Our joints are cushioned by synovial fluid, which contains tiny amounts of dissolved gases like nitrogen and carbon dioxide. When you stretch, the joint capsule expands, reducing pressure inside the fluid. The gases then form a bubble and pop! As with most things, moderation is key. Cracking your back shouldn’t cause pain but if it does, it might be worth seeing your GP. But when it comes to avoiding cracks on the footpath… that’s still up to you!

30/09/2025

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. It affects 2-3% of the Australian population and is the most common spinal deformity in children. In about 80% of cases, the cause remains unknown although genetic factors are thought to play a role. Several syndromes, disorders and diseases can also contribute to development of the condition. But did you know scoliosis isn’t unique to humans. Any animal with a spine can be affected - dogs, cats, horses, snakes and even whales!
(photo credit: whale - Gerry Charlebois/Birds in Paradise Flight School via Associated Press; horse – Becker1999 via Flickr).

23/09/2025

Speak without speaking? Maybe you can. AlterEgo is a wearable AI neural interface that lets you “speak” silently. Unlike brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) where electrodes are implanted in the brain, this headset is completely non-invasive. It detects tiny neuromuscular signals in your face and articulatory muscles when you silently mouth or think words. AI then interprets these signals and the device sends the audio back through bone-conduction headphones. Currently being trialed in people who’ve lost the ability to speak, this tech could one day transform the way we all communicate. Almost like telepathy! Read more: https://www.alterego.io/

16/09/2025

Super Spine Stuff – what does Black Panther, Tic Tacs and Ferrari Screws all have in common? They’re all nicknames that surgeons may use for spine implants - although you won’t find them called that if you “search it up”! Black Panther is an artificial disc with a sleek black coating; Tic Tacs are tiny stand-alone cervical cages; and Ferrari Screws refer to a colourful, high-performance pedicle screw set developed by Italian surgeon, Vincenzo Ferrari. Who knew spine surgery devices could sound like a superhero, a snack and a sports car all at once?

10/09/2025

Have a conversation today.

02/09/2025

Have you met our Neurosurgical Nurse Practitioner? Want to learn more about a rare type of brain tumour? Or maybe you're keen to add some more Super Spine Stuff to your trivia bank! Read about all of this in our latest newsletter!