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Written by Scott Sanderson, MD, Chief of Neurosurgery, Danbury Hospital
You may have noticed the piercing pain your neck or back feels. It’s a pain that can be excruciating. Sometimes, this kind of pain seems to appear from nothing, or even after an easy movement such as the bending of a knee to tie the shoe. Sometimes, individuals may be able to identify the cause of the injury in the event of a car crash or a fall, or lifting something that is heavy.
This type of pain in the spine is extremely widespread. Experts estimate that over 80percent of the population living in the United States experience back pain at an age in their lives.
What is the best time to be concerned about neck or back discomfort and what you can do to do
It is typically recommended to consult your primary care physician for an initial examination If you suffer from:
- New onset neck or back pain that is persistent in the area
- No pain radiating down your back, arms, buttocks, or legs
This kind of back pain is caused by various reasons, including disc inflammation or pinched nerve. People often describe it by saying “I put my back on the floor.”
Based on my personal experience, this kind of pain can be a major one and make you want to seek out an emergency department. But, it is usually better after a few days of strong anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants as well as local treatmentoptions, such as cold or heat.
Visit a specialist in spine such as a neurosurgeon to treat injuries to the neck or back If:
- The pain will not disappear after two weeks.
- The pain can get worse
- The pain is radiating down both legs or arms, or even your back or buttocks.
- If you have leg or arm weakness or numbness.
- You’re not stable in your walking or standing
- If you have a new bladder, or an incontinence in the bowel.
You could require emergency medical treatment if suffer from back pain following an accident that caused you to struck your neck, head or lower back.
What should you anticipate from neurosurgeons regarding spinal care
Although we are specialized in neurosurgery the neurosurgeons are at Nuvance Health prefer a non-invasive approach when it comes to suggesting surgery. In reality, most patients don’t require surgery for spinal issues We will not recommend surgery when there are alternative alternatives to treatment.
Neurosurgeons at our clinic are expected to provide precise, individual recommendations based upon a thorough examination, history of the patient and imaging, such as radiographs and X-rays. CT scans as well as MRIs.
It is crucial to establish an appropriate care program that is in line with your lifestyle goals to ensure that you do not just get better, but also preserve your level of living.
Neurosurgeons are in the uniquely placed position to identify the root of the problem through our education in neurology and comprehend the anatomy of an injury based on our surgical education.
For instance, many suffering from a cervical spine (neck) injury suffer from discomfort in their shoulder blade. They are likely to think that it’s an upper or shoulder issue and should first consult an orthopedist or physiatrist physical therapist, or an expert in pain management prior to seeing an expert in spine.
In these areas Neurosurgeons are in collaboration with many skilled specialists since spinal care is a team game. Following diagnosis we couple patients with the appropriate treatments that are well-rounded.
Treatment for injuries to the spine
If you’re suffering from a neck or back injury, you are able to trust our neurosurgeons be cautious, think about all options and help you navigate the process of getting better.
Non-surgical treatment for the spine
The good news is that there are numerous non-surgical options to treat injuries to the spine, including injectable or oral steroids that reduce the pain and inflammation, physical therapy and spinal cord stimulation chiropractic care, acupuncture massage, and much more.
Surgery for the spine
Surgery may be recommended in the event of concern about nerve damage, or if you have tried other options for non-surgical treatment with no improvements. It’s also good to know that there are more creative and less risky alternatives for spine surgery than previously. They include minimally-invasive procedures such as robotic-guided spinal fusion.
The robotic technology
Robotic technology is an excellent alternative for those who require spinal fusion in order to treat herniated discs or instability in the spine. The benefits of robotics as opposed to open spinal fusion. These benefits include:
- A shorter hospital stay following surgery
- A lesser amount of post-operative pain
- Speedier recovery
Minimally invasive procedures could be a viable alternative for those who aren’t a good candidate for traditionalopen surgeries due to health or other issues.
We also provide artificial disc replacement to replace the spinal fusion for patients that satisfy the requirements, and could result in greater mobility in the spine following surgery.
The main point is: Neck and back pain is quite common If you suffer from it, you’re not all alone. There are plenty of solutions to help you get better. A visit to a primary care physician to treat a specific spine issue is an ideal initial step. Be aware of any red flag symptoms and know when to visit a neurosurgeon to talk about the options available, couple you to care and resources, and assist you along the way to healing.
Dr. Scott Sanderson is a fellow-trained, board-certified neurosurgeon. He is an expert on the treatment and surgical management of tumors in brains, injuries, as well as spinal degenerative and trauma.
Dr. Sanderson and a group of highly skilled neurosurgeons, physician assistants subspecialized and medical professionals take care of patients on agreement with Nuvance Health Medical Practices.
To book a neurosurgical appointment in Danbury contact 203.792.2003. To make an appointment for neurosurgical surgery in Norwalk contact 203.853.0003.
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