Diet and Back Pain
We often do not make the connection of diet and back pain. But, like in all things, subtle changes can make a difference. I have blogged several times about the effects of weight and back pain, but this blog will be oriented to the type of food, not excessive food. In general, back pain can be […]
Walking is the Best Exercise
Many of our patients want to know the best exercise for their spine problems. Some bring me reams of information about the latest exercise trends. To all of them, I say JUST WALK! If you are already in great shape, good for you! But the rest of us need a simple way to get […]
What is myelopathy?
Myelopathy means a compromised state of the spinal cord. And, there are multiple reasons for that situation. The more uncommon reasons are secondary to vascular compromise. Usually there is compromise of the blood supply to the spinal cord. Typically, it is the anterior spinal artery that is effected, although, posterior artery (there are two of […]
Spine Surgeon “Tough Love”
No one should want to see a Spine Surgeon. The evaluation is secondary to pain, and loss of activity. Spine Surgery is painful. It is a necessary, difficult process that is beneficial to the patient in the long run. That definition can also be considered a form of “Tough Love”. Those who have delivered “Tough […]
Concussions Affect the Spine
The concussions in sports conversation will surely be brought up again as football season starts. Most of the discussion is about the affects on the brain. As a spine surgeon, I made a video to further the discussion as the spine and neck are also affected by the forces that cause concussions. CitationsElkin BS, Elliott […]
What is Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) ?
For certain people, the source of back pain is the irritation associated with cartilage wear in the facet joints of the spine. This wear and tear cause the nerves from that particular facet joint to excite, and causes pain. The typical pain is a back pain, that localizes to the lower back, and buttock, or […]
Before you have Spine Surgery
“Before you have Spine Surgery……..” there should be a discussion on the risks, benefits, and alternatives. I see patients for surgery second opinions almost every day. Naturally, the patients are in pain, and often have some weakness. But, I am surprised on how many patients have not truly explored their alternatives. So, here is a […]
Cervical Fusions in the NFL
Football is fun to watch, and play. But, as a NFL player, you are one down away from injury. Unfortunately, some injuries can be career ending. I had previously blogged about the rates of disk herniations in the NFL. But, there is not much information about the results of certain surgically treated injuries until recently. […]
5 Patient controlled Risk Factors for Spine Surgery
The TRUTH. YOU the PATIENT have control over 5 of the risk factors associated with SPINE SURGERY: 1. SMOKING. Smoking is associated with poor healing of the wounds. From a very basic science perspective, smoking decreases the blood flow to areas secondary by causing constriction of your arteries. The lack of blood supply impedes healing […]
