Brace Yourself
We see it all the time. The patient comes in to the office and peels off an old worn back brace. When asked why they are wearing it, they will have one of three reasons: they have a job with heavy lifting so they started wearing the brace at work and got into the habit […]
Are you being taken for an unhealthy ride?
Recently this article was produced on PBS News Hour and upset a lot of people (read comments). It also received some positive reviews, mostly from medical practitioners. After reading it, I have to say there is a general agreement among the physicians I have spoken to that much of this article is right on target. […]
LUMBAR and CERVICAL EPIDURAL SPINAL INJECTIONS (ESI’s)
One treatment that is frequently recommended for patients with spine problems are epidural steroid injections (ESI’s). They are particularly effective for patients who have radiculopathy (nerve pain) and are thought of as ‘conservative care” though they are often done in surgery centers or small OR’s. Properly administered using fluoroscopy (live x-ray), a corticosteroid (Dexamethasone) is […]
Questions for the Spine Surgeon
Have you been told you need Spinal Surgery? If possible, it is always wise to get a second opinion. But wait! Do your homework first. This is what I would do before seeing a spine surgeon for a second opinion…. 1. Go with a trusted friend or family member. Two sets of ears and two […]
I Have What?
The report is in front of you. And it looks dire. Degeneration, bulges, herniations and annular tears. It sounds terrible! Let’s talk… I am not a radiologist but I have seen a lot of MRI’s and MRI reports over the years. I have taken many courses and have been privileged enough to work with several […]
Degenerative Disk Disease? There Will be Pain…Maybe
Have you been told you have Degenerative Disk Disease? If so, welcome to the club. If you live long enough, you will get it. If you think about it, degenerative disk disease really should not be called a disease, as it is the normal process of disk degradation. It is like saying aging is a […]
