Archive for category anti-inflammatory

Muscle Weakness and Spinal Nerves review KBNI Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

contact us for helpMuscle Weakness and Spinal Nerve

 

spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain

spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain

Our spinal nerves branch out from the spinal cord and allow us to feel sensation in many parts of the body. The nerves transmit signals of heat, cold, pain, and general sensation, meaning that without their unimpeded operation, patients experience a variety of negative symptoms, from muscle weakness to paralysis. Our spinal nerves are also intertwined with our vertebrae (the bones in the spinal column). The spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) help provide a means for the spine to articulate as well as keeping vertebrae from compressing nearby spinal nerves. Over time, however, the spinal discs naturally degenerate, becoming harder, thinner, and less pliable as we grow older. As spinal discs break down, the distance between our vertebrae shrinks, placing patients at an elevated risk for compressed spinal nerves and extreme back pain.

spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain

spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain

On most occasions, rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen will be enough to mediate back pain and restore mobility long enough for patients to pursue other avenues of treatment. Sometimes, though, structural problems in the back may lead to more serious complications. If back pain patients at any time experience muscle weakness or numbness in the extremities, seek medical attention immediately. This could be an indication of continually compressed spinal nerves. Over time, repeated compression can damage the nerves and lead to a loss of sensation and / or mobility.

spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain, Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain, Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

If compression of spinal nerves is suspected to be the culprit and the physical examination is inconclusive, doctors will order imaging tests (x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging) in order to observe the problem area in greater detail. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan)  provides excellent clarity of the body’s soft tissues, allowing physicians to judge whether spinal nerves may be at risk during routine activity.

spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain, Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain, Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

If spinal nerve compression forms the root of a patient’s back problem, there are several steps he or she can take from home that will increase their long-term mobility. First, consult your physician regarding a physical therapy or chiropractic regimen designed to build core strength along your spinal column and in the abdomen. Strong core muscles will help relieve pressure from spinal discs and reduce the possibility of compressed spinal nerves in the future. Also, consider your present weight and activity level: are you doing everything you can to minimize back pain? Unhealthy weight gain puts more pressure on every part of the spinal column, including spinal discs and facet joints (the joints that link our vertebrae. By keeping your weight down and getting regular exercise, patients can optimize their chances for maintaining mobility as they age.

The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX  cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas Medical Center  (TMC), Tomball and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin

If you have SUFFERED AN INJURY, you can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at

…….  281-713-6296

 

…….  Or visit  www.SpineHealth.com  to schedule an appointment online

 

…….  KBNI VIDEO

 

 

Keywords: spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain, Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

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What is Disc Degeneration in the Context of the Spine? KBNI Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

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What is Disc Degeneration in the Context of the Spine?

spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration

spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration

Degenerative disc disease (disc degeneration)  has proven to be a frightening diagnosis for many members of the public. Our spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) are essential for a high quality of life. They cushion the load-bearing stress on the spinal column and along with the facet joints (the joints between our vertebrae) spinal discs help allow for the spinal column’s articulation during routine motion.

Over time, however, the spinal discs naturally degenerate (degenerative disc diseease) , becoming thinner, harder, drier, and less capable of absorbing shock. This means that vertebrae in the spinal column move closer together, placing nearby spinal nerves at a higher risk for compression. Degenerated spinal discs also directly impact a back pain patient’s mobility, given that the discs act somewhat like the shocks and suspension on an automobile a person with compromised discs is going to move more slowly and have a smaller range of motion.

spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration

spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration

Problems also surface when back pain patients are diagnosed with degenerative disc disease. Patients may be frightened at the condition getting worse to the point of paralysis or greatly decreased mobility. While advanced damage in your spinal discs is indeed cause for concern, there are many steps patients can take to mediate back pain and improve their quality of life as they age. First, don’t give up simply because of your diagnosis. Disc degeneration is a natural process. Degenerative disc disease  (disc degeneration) simply means your degeneration has progressed more quickly than is the norm.

spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

Additionally, there are many steps patients can take at home to make sure they retain an acceptable range of motion and low-to-moderate pain levels. First, consider using over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to mediate back pain when it reaches acute levels. Pain medication will provide temporary relief and restore mobility by reducing inflammation (anti-inflammatory effects)  along the spinal column (which, in a person with advanced degeneration of their spinal discs, will also help in relieving pressure on spinal nerves). A physical therapy or chiropractic regimen emphasizing core-strengthening exercises is also essential. Strong muscles throughout the torso and along the spinal column will relieve pressure from compromised spinal discs and help reduce the possibility for compressing spinal nerves. Patients also have the advantage of continuing these physical therapy / chiropractic exercises at home for an indefinite period of time, reducing medical costs and helping to maintain their mobility while reducing the possibility of further damage to the spinal discs themselves. Finally, physical therapy is an essential component in a healthy lifestyle that keeps weight at optimum levels, reducing the load-bearing stress on spinal discs and facet joints. Maintaining a healthy weight will further reduce the possibility of additional damage, while an unhealthy weight will increase the potential for nerve damage.

spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

Physicians at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute treat patients with degenerative disc disease (disc degeneration).  The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX  cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas Medical Center  (TMC), Tomball and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.  In most cases, non-surgical treatments are available, reserving surgery for those patients in whom conservative treatments do not provide sufficient pain relief.

If you have SUFFERED AN INJURY, you can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at

…….  281-713-6296

 

…….  Or visit  www.SpineHealth.com  to schedule an appointment online

 

…….  KBNI VIDEO

 

 

Keywords: spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown

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Talking with Your Spine Surgeon – Neurosurgeon / Orthopedic Spine Surgeon by KBNI Houston Sugarland Woodlands Katy Pearland Galveston Beaumont Memorial City

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Talking with Your Spine Surgeon – Neurosurgeon / Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

 

back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston

back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston

 

 

Communicating about your back pain is the first step in setting down the road to recovery. The importance of communicating honestly with your physician cannot be overstated here. A physician’s ability to prescribe an effective course of treatment depends upon the information he or she receives from you. Considering that most chronic back pain is a result of lifestyle choices, this means your input could go a long way toward reducing your recovery time.

Physicians will likely ask you questions regarding your work and recreational histories, including detailed questions about any injuries. Be forthcoming with details about your pain levels, including descriptions of the location, duration, and intensity of your pain. Note how your pain levels change as you perform different activities, and let your doctors know which activities make it worse.

back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston

back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston

A physician arrives at a diagnosis after taking a detailed history from the patient about their Chief Complaint (CC) .  They then ask about a History of Present Illness (HPI) , which are detailed questions about what causes the symptoms, when they began, what makes them better or worse, how long they last.  The physician also asks about issues such as fevers (which might indicate presence of an infection) or a history of cancer (which might indicate that cancer may be involved).  The physician will also ask about family history, which may play a role in genetically inherited disorders.  The physician then will perform a comprehensive detailed physical examination, focusing on where the problem lies.  Then, the physician will order additional tests if needed.  These may include imaging studies, nerve studies (EMG/NCV), bone density studies, X rays, CT scans.

back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City

back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City

If your pain levels are severe and are not resolved with conservative treatments like physical therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs, you may wish to consult a spine surgeon – neurosurgeon or  orthopedic spine surgeon (though this will likely require a referral from your regular physician or specialist). Major back surgery is costly and necessitates a long recovery time, so doctors generally do not recommend it unless a patient’s chronic back pain is not adequately mediated by other treatments. Neurosurgeons and orthopedic spine surgeons may be able to provide you with helpful consultation on how to proceed with your treatment, but just like general physicians, surgeons depend on accurate information from you to find the best course of treatment. Prior to your back surgery, surgeons consult imaging exams (magnetic resonance imaging, x-rays, computerized tomography scans CT Scans) in order to better understand the cause behind your pain levels.

Both prior to surgery and during post-operative care, back pain patients should take advantage of anti-inflammatory drugs to regain mobility and reduce their pain levels. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen and ibuprofen help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can be crucial during post-operative care depending on the length and depth of the incisions involved. Note that after a spinal fusion, your surgeon may want you to stay away from taking anti-inflammatory medications because they can impede the fusion process.  Inflammation is part of the body’s natural healing response to muscle trauma, but inflammation and arthritis along the spinal column can lead to compressed spinal nerves in patients with degenerated spinal disks (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae).

back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City

back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City

Continue providing detailed information about your recovery to your spine surgeon (neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon) during your period of post-operative care. You will likely be subject to several post-operative checkups to monitor your progress. Remember that physicians will sometimes make adjustments according to the information you give them, so take detailed notes regarding your pain levels and provide truthful information at all times.

Physicians at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) have significant experience treating patients with a variety of causes of low back pain and neck pain.  Because of their diverse experience with conservative as well as surgical modes of treatment, they approach each patient with the treatments options which are best for the goals, desires and expectations of that patient.

The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center  (TMC) and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin.

Patients suffering from neck pain or lower back pain, or who have been told they may require a spine surgery, can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at

…….  281-713-6296

…….  Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE

……. KBNI VIDEO on Back and Neck Pain Treatment : Don’t Live in Fear and Pain

 

 

Keywords: back pain, orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, pain levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City

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