Dermatome Patterns
Dermatomal Patterns help physicians define nerve radiculopathy patterns. Most neurologists/spine specialists accept certain associated sensation, muscle strength, and reflex changes patterns to specific nerve roots. L5 radiculopathy is typically associated with weakness of the extensor hallucis longus muscle. That is the muscle that allows the great toe to point upwards. L5 radiculopathy also follows a […]
Artificial Disk Replacement
Have you been told you need an Artificial Disk Replacement? Usually, it means you have had neck or back pain, and have not improved with conservative treatments. Assuming you have had appropriate treatments, but still have significant pain, artificial disk replacement may be an option for you. But, there are certain questions you need […]
Epidural Steroid Injections
Should you get Epidural Steroid Injections? It depends on the rationale for the treatment. In my practice, I use Epidural Steroid Injections for both treatment as well as diagnostic purposes. The research for these injections have been significant, but the conclusions by the various authors have been very different. If you must […]
Did the Accident Cause the Disk Herniation?
That is a frequent question asked by many patients.The answer is, a definite maybe the accident caused the disk herniation. As a practicing orthopaedic spine surgeon, I have seen many patients with complaints of pain after an auto accident. In my community, I have also been asked to evaluate patients in Auto accidents by attorney […]
Do Not Smoke!
80 % of people will have back pain sometime in their life. Often, I am asked how can I avoid having back pain. Unfortunately, we cannot avoid the natural wear and tear to our bodies. Just by living, you will wear out your joints, bones and ligaments. In addition, some of us will cause […]
