Archive for category cervical
Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI and Herniated Disc by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas
Posted by admin in baytown, beaumont, cervical, ct, disc degeneration, discectomy, herniated disc surgery, houston, katy, lumbar, lumbar spine, minimally invasive surgery, mri, spine surgery, sugarland, thoracic spine, woodlands on July 16, 2014
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MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland
Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI and Herniated Disc by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas
Patients often wonder what the best test is to determine whether they have a herniated disc in the spine. Without a doubt, magnetic resonance imaging MRI has revolutionized the imaging field of medicine, and allowed immense clarity and accuracy when trying to diagnose a herniated disc. There are several different primary imaging exams that physicians use to aid in making an accurate diagnosis. When it comes to the spinal column anatomy, an incredibly complex system of powerful load-bearing bones and facet joints all working in conjunction with spinal discs and nerves, making an accurate diagnosis can be difficult. Typically, physicians will begin with a series of physical exams that test a patient’s mobility and back pain levels. Based on these findings, physicians will have a much better approximation of the possible causes for the patient’s back pain. Consequently, a series of spinal imaging exams may be recommended to confirm the diagnostics. X-rays are normally used when spinal fracture is suspected, but if soft tissue damage (such as spinal nerve compression) is the main cause of a patient’s back pain, magnetic resonance imaging MRI is used to gain an accurate estimate of the damage.
MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland
Magnetic resonance imaging MRI uses powerful magnetic fields and radio wave energy to map the body’s soft tissue systems. This information is then relayed to a computer so that different systems can be studied in more detail. Magnetic resonance imaging MRI also has the advantage of remote viewing, where clinics that have access to other physicians’ MRI recordings can make recommendations based on samples that have been relayed electronically. MRI scans can be done on what is known as a closed machine or magnet, or an open machine or magnet. Typically, for patients who have difficulty with claustrophobia, an open magnet or machine may be easier to tolerate. For patients with claustrophobia, a mild oral sedative or an intravenous ( IV ) sedative may help them to tolerate the machine. Most patients are able to have their MRI scan done on a closed machine, with accommodations made, even if they have mild claustrophobia.
MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Different MRI sequences on the MRI scan can help the radiologist and spine surgeon (neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon) to help determine whether the herniated disc is more acute or chronic in nature. In addition, MRI images can be taken in different planes. This means that the orientation of the images of the spine can be seen in sagittal (as if looking from the side), coronal (as if looking from the front of the body) or axial (as if looking from the feet with the patient lying on their back) views. With a high quality MRI scan, individual nerve roots can be seen in cross section, and a herniated disc which compresses the nerves can usually be easily visualized. Typically, an MRI scan of the cervical spine shows the spine from the skull base to the top of the thoracic spine. A cervical herniated disc can be easily seen in cross section or sagittal views on a cervical MRI. A thoracic spine MRI scan typically shows the spine from the bottom of the cervical spine to the top of the lumbar spine. A thoracic herniated disc can be seen on axial and sagittal MRI views. A lumbar MRI scan usually shows the spine from the bottom of the thoracic spine to the sacrum, which lies below the lumbar spine. An axial or sagittal MRI scan will usually show a lumbar herniated disc. A spine surgeon finds that an MRI scan provides critical information for a herniated disc surgery.
Within the spinal column, magnetic resource imaging MRI allows for complete renditions of the spinal discs (herniated disc) , which help in determining conditions like advanced disc degeneration, herniated disc, cartilage degeneration between the facet joints, and integrity of the spinal canal that houses the central nervous system’s spinal nerves. MRI scans can also be used as a secondary imaging exam if the results of an X-ray or CT scan (computerized tomography) are inconclusive. MRI scans are not always able to pinpoint the origin of a patient’s back pain, however, due to the fact that some patients may exhibit extreme pain while showing relatively few signs of soft tissue degeneration. Other patients may show much more degeneration in the spinal column, facet joints, or spinal disks, but have much lower levels of back pain during routine movement. As with other imaging exams, MRIs are used in conjunction with other imaging exams to ascertain whether more serious methods of treatment (such as back surgery) are necessary.
MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
When a patient is not able to undergo an MRI scan, possibly due to an implanted pacemaker or spinal cord stimulator, they can undergo a myelogram. A myelogram is a study in which a spinal tap is performed, usually in the lumbar spine, and a water soluble iodine dye is placed into the spinal canal. This iodine dye shows up on x ray and CT scans of the spine. After the myelogram is performed, with iodine dye in the spinal canal, a CT scan of the spine is performed to show an outline of the spinal nerves, and determine whether there is pressure upon the nerves. In this manner, a herniated disc in the lumbar, thoracic or cervical spine can be seen. The CT scan will also who any hard bone spurs or calcium within the herniated disc.
Neurosurgeon spine experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston, TX, have expertise in using MRI scans to evaluate the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, and diagnose a herniated disc, among other spinal disorders. With accurate scanning and imaging techniques, KBNI physician experts can help to diagnose the cause of pain or weakness in the neck, back, arms and legs, and to find a treatment strategy which will help the patient recover. In the majority of cases, patients will achieve good relief of pain without the need of a spine surgery. When surgery on the spine is needed, neurosurgeons at the KBNI utilize the latest techniques in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques, when appropriate.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX takes care of 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 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: MRI, herniated disc, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Spinal Imaging Cervical Thoracic Lumbar Spine with MRI and CT by KBNI Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center
Posted by admin in baytown, beaumont, cervical, cervical spine, ct, disc degeneration, fracture, fusion, houston, katy, lumbar, lumbar fusion, lumbar laminectomy, lumbar spine, lumbar stenosis, mri, sciatica, spinal fusion, sugarland, thoracic spine, woodlands on July 10, 2014
Spinal, Imaging, Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, Spine, MRI, CT, KBNI,Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center
Spinal Imaging Cervical Thoracic Lumbar Spine with MRI and CT by KBNI Houston
Spinal imaging tests of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine are essential for correctly diagnosing spinal deformities, injuries, and other related problems. Physicians normally start with a patient history and a physical exam to test the patient’s mobility, range of motion, and look for points of tenderness. Based on the findings, physicians can then make recommendations for the best course of treatment. Minor injuries such as muscle pulls may be treated with pain relievers, anti inflammatory medications and rest, and core strengthening exercises. If the patient’s neck or back (cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine) pain is not mediated by these measures, however, then a physician may recommend a series of spinal imaging tests to determine whether the problem is structural. Spine imaging can consist of X ray,MRI or CT scans of the anatomy of the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine.
Spinal, Imaging, Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, Spine, MRI, CT, KBNI,Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center
X ray, CT scans and MRI scans of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine show the physician different information about the body. X ray of the spine shows alignment very well, as well as fractures of the vertebral bodies. They can show collapse of the disc spaces (disc degeneration), and slippage of the bones (vertebral bodies) upon each other, known as spondylolisthesis. X rays do not show herniated discs pushing into the spinal canal, unless the disc is calcified, in which case the calcium in the bone spur may show up on x ray. X ray is good for showing the placement of hardware for spinal fusion (such as pedicle screws in the lumbar spine, and anterior cervical plates in the cervical spine) in the spine. Bone growing between vertebral bodies and between transverse processes of a spinal fusion are also well seen on X ray and CT scans.
myelogram, cervical, thoracic, lumbar, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring
CT scans of the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine anatomy show very detailed views of the cross sectional anatomy of the spine. The images are taken as cross sections of the body, and these thin slices of information can be processed by the imaging computer, and reconstructed to show the spine as seen in the sagittal plane (from the side) or coronal plane (as seen from the front). A CT scan of the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine can show fractures very well. They also show the placement of screws into the spine, after surgery, very well. CT scans of the spine do not show great detail of the soft tissues of the spine, such as the nerve roots passing through the spine, of the spinal cord running through the spine. If a CT scan of the spine is performed after the patient undergoes a myelogram, the spinal nerves and spinal cord can be better visualized. A myelogram is performed when a radiologist performs a spinal tap on a patient, by placing a spinal needle into the lumbar spine. Even though this sounds like a difficult procedure, it is generally accompanied with minimal pain. After the needle is in the spinal sac, or dural sac, the next step is to place a dye (which can be seen on CT scan) or contrast agent within the thecal sac. Once this is completed, a CT scan is done through the appropriate portions of the spine (cervical, thoracic or lumbar), and the contrast dye shows up as white on the CT scan, while the nerve roots or spinal cord show up as dark shadows against the bright spinal fluid. The myelogram procedure can accurately show disc herniations into the nerve roots or spinal cord.
MRI, scan, cervical, thoracic, lumbar, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring
MRI scan of the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine shows soft tissue, such as disc bulges (which may cause sciatica), spinal stenosis, spinal cord and nerve roots, very well. It can also be used to see areas of contusion within the spinal cord. It shows images in the axial plane (cross sections through the spine or body), as well as the coronal and sagittal planes.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), for example, is often used when the physician suspects damage to the soft tissues around the spinal cord. The spinal cord runs most of the length of the spinal column and houses the central nervous system’s spinal nerves, which are responsible for transmitting sensory information to the brain in addition to signals for voluntary muscle control. Physicians can use magnetic resonance imaging to see if these nerves or other soft tissues have been damaged by spinal fracture, impact trauma, or otherwise compromised by spinal deformities. CT scans (computerized tomography) and X-rays do not produce detailed images of soft tissue, so physicians typically do not require them to analyze soft tissue damage in the spine—unless that damage is suspected to be the result of a damaged vertebra. Magnetic resonance imaging can also reveal spinal abscesses and spinal tumors before they have a chance to compress spinal nerves, which often causes extreme pain.
If spinal fracture is suspected, physicians may require CT scans and X-rays to determine the extent of the fracture’s damage, as well as a magnetic resonance imaging exam to ensure the integrity of the spinal cord. Patients may think that these tests are excessive given that many spinal fractures occur during everyday motion (such as picking up a bag of groceries), but physicians must be absolutely certain that the soft tissues of the spinal cord are not compromised. Spinal column integrity greatly reduces the chances of the spinal nerves becoming compressed by nearby vertebrae, though the spinal disks (shock-absorbing pads between the vertebrae) can still degenerate to the point where compressed spinal nerves are a significant problem. All of these imaging exams serve to ensure that patients make safe recoveries.
Summary of Uses of Various Spinal Imaging Modalities:
X Ray: useful for evaluating curvature of spine, such as scoliosis; fractures; spinal alignment; instrumentation placed in the spine (pedicle screws, rods, plates); fusion between adjacent vertebral levels
CT scan of cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine: useful for evaluating fractures of spine; alignment of spine; bone spurs in cervical thoracic and lumbar spine
CT with myelogram: useful for evaluating nerve roots in cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine; spinal stenosis; fusion between adjacent vertebral levels (often used instead of MRI if patient has a pacemaker or implanted spinal cord stimulator)
MRI scan of cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine: useful for evaluating herniated disc, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis
Physician experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX have significant experience at taking care of patients with back problems, back injuries and other sources of back and neck pain. They frequently see patients who are suffering from the symptom of neck pain, low back pain, and mid back pain, and have never received imaging studies of the spine. Physicians at the KBNI will order the appropriate spinal imaging studies of the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine as needed, and review the results with the patient.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX takes care of patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, 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.
REFERENCE SITES
Patients suffering from neck pain or 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: spinal, imaging, cervical, thoracic, lumbar, spine, MRI , CT, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Lumbar Stenosis, Cervical Stenosis, Arthritis, Spinal Stenosis and Effects of Aging on Spine discussion KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Beaumont, Texas Medical Center TMC
Posted by admin in arthritis, back injury prevention, baytown, beaumont, cervical, cervical spine, cervical stenosis, chiropractor, chiropractor near me, core strengthening exercise, disc degeneration, fracture, houston, katy, low back pain, lumbar, lumbar spine, lumbar stenosis, neck pain, nutritional supplements, pain, spinal stenosis, sugarland, woodlands on June 21, 2014
lumbar stenosis, cervical stenosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring
As the body and spine age, degenerative changes of arthritis and spinal stenosis can affect the spine. When this occurs in the cervical spine (neck) , it is known as cervical stenosis, and when it occurs in the lumbar spine (low back) , it is called lumbar stenosis. Aging typically has an impact on every aspect of daily life, and movement of the spine is no exception. The spine is involved in almost every kind of routine movement: twisting, standing, sitting, walking, and running included. Aging can lower mobility, endurance, strength, and balance, but certain exercises and lifestyle choices help to prolong (and even counteract) some effects of aging, particularly in the case of the spine. The network of muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the torso begins to lose mass as we grow older (as do all muscles in the body), and it becomes more difficult to build muscle mass due to our cells not reproducing as vigorously as they do while we are young. Water loss in tendons (which attach muscles to bones) also makes these tendons stiffer and less capable of managing load-bearing stress. A regimen of core strengthening exercises can prolong torso strength, as well as assist in managing the body’s weight distribution. Regular core strengthening will also help reduce wear on the spinal disks (shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) by reducing stress placed upon the spinal column during movement.
lumbar stenosis, cervical stenosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring
The lumbar spine anatomy and the cervical spine anatomy consist of vertebral segments, which are held together by ligaments, which cross over the disc spaces, and over the facet joints (which separate one vertebral level from the next). There is ligament in front of the vertebral body known as the anterior longitudinal ligament. The ligament behind the vertebral body is called the posterior longitudinal ligament. The ligaments around the facet joints are the capsular ligaments. The ligament between the spinous processes is the interspinous ligament, and the ligament between the transverse process is the inter transverse ligament. Of particular importance for the aging spine is the ligamentum flavum, which is a ligament which is found on the inside of the spinal canal, just under the lamina (which is the back roof of the spinal canal). As the spine ages, this ligament can become thickened, and compress upon the nerves of the spinal canal, a condition known as spinal stenosis (cervical stenosis, lumbar stenosis) . When this occurs, patients may experience pain in the neck or low back, or arms or legs. When the spinal stenosis occurs in the neck, it is cervical stenosis. When the spinal stenosis occurs in the low back, it is lumbar stenosis.
lumbar stenosis, cervical stenosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring
Arthritis also affects the aging spine. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints. The spine has many joints, and these can become inflamed, resulting in pain and stiffness. There are two major typed of arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a result of normal aging or wear and tear upon the spine. Rheumatoid arthritis is a result of an autoimmune disorder. Generally, the goal of arthritis treatment is to improve quality and function of live. When the spine undergoes arthritis, bone spurs can grow inside of the spine and outside of the spine. The facet joints can become thickened and overgrown, and the arthritis can result in bone overgrowth and compression upon nerve roots. The nerve compression from arthritis can affect the spinal nerves in the central canal (where all of the nerves of the spine pass as they traverse the distance from the brain to the rest of the body) and the arthritis can affect the nerves as they leave the spinal canal through the neural foramen, which are openings in the side of the spinal canal located just next to the facet joints.
Our spinal disks, along with our spinal joints, help our spine articulate, but they also gradually wear down and undergo disc degeneration. They can become thinner, causing a loss in height, as well as a rupture (herniated disc )as a result of regular load-bearing stress, sudden impact trauma (such as a fall), or due to increased body mass. Proper hydration, healthy weight management, a varied and nutritious healthy diet, nutritional supplements, and regular rest will all help prolong the effects of aging on the spinal disks, in addition to maintaining bone density at near-optimal levels. High bone density means less incidence of osteoporosis (low bone density), and a much lower probability of bone density-related spinal fractures (osteoporotic compression fractures). Vertebral compression fractures can press upon the nerves of the spine. Smoking can also have an adverse effect on overall spine health.
lumbar stenosis, cervical stenosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center, TMC, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Our heart muscle gradually loses efficiency, meaning that on a year-by-year average, we are less capable of pumping blood in a given amount of time. This means we get tired more quickly and our muscles take longer to recover from stress. For the spine, this means that the support network of bones, ligaments, and muscles around the spine receive less and less nutrition, especially during periods of load-bearing stress. Regular cardiovascular exercise, proper hydration, and a healthy diet as well as weight management will help maintain heart muscle as we age.
In summary, the aging process can take a severe toll upon the spine. Arthritis in the spine can develop, and along with this, the ligaments can become firm and thickened, resulting in spinal stenosis, lumbar stenosis and cervical stenosis. Proper physical activity, proper nutrition, core strengthening exercises, sciatica exercises, and stretching can help to slow down and even reverse the aging process, as it relates to the spine.
Spine experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX have expertise at taking care of patients with aging symptoms of the spine, in particular arthritis, and spinal stenosis including lumbar stenosis and cervical stenosis. In the majority of cases, patients may undergo a treatment course and improve without the need of an operation. When surgery is necessary, Neurosurgeons at the KBNI utilize the most advanced techniques in minimally invasive spine surgery when it is appropriate.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX takes care of patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, 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.
REFERENCE SITES
Patients suffering from a cervical stenosis or lumbar stenosis, or who have been told they may require a lumbar laminectomy or cervical laminectomy, 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: lumbar stenosis, cervical stenosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center, TMC, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
lumbar stenosis, cervical stenosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center, TMC, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Chiropractor Near Me and Sciatica Exercises with Chiropractor Houston, Sciatica Treatment discussion by KBNI Houston
Posted by admin in baytown, beaumont, cervical, chiropractic, chiropractor, chiropractor near me, disc degeneration, herniated disc, houston, injury, katy, low back pain, lumbar, neck pain, sciatica, sciatica exercises, sciatica treatment, sports injury, stretching, sugarland, whiplash, woodlands on June 11, 2014
chiropractor near me, chiropractor Houston, sciatica exercises, sciatica treatment, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy
A chiropractor near me is often requested by many patients suffering from low back pain or neck pain. Chiropractic care is a branch of alternative medicine that specializes in the prevention and treatment of mechanical problems in the musculoskeletal system (particularly the spine). A chiropractor Houston may be well versed in sciatica treatment, and be able to prescribe the appropriate sciatica exercises to treat low back pain and radicular symptoms known as sciatica.
Radicular symptoms refers the condition where a herniated disc in the neck or low back is pressing upon a nerve in the spinal column. This causes the body to think that pain is coming from the extremity which is supplied by that nerve. For example, if a herniated disc is pressing upon a nerve which goes to the leg, in the lumbar spine, the patient will feel pain in that leg. This sensation of radiating pain, or radicular pain, is known as sciatica. A chiropractor Houston or a chiropractor near me may be able to help this with sciatica exercises. Patients may have suffered an injury such as a car accident (possible whiplash injury or other), or a sports injury, or no injury at all, and simply having awakened one morning with pain.
Chiropractors believe that a compromised musculoskeletal system adversely affects the nervous system and overall physical health. While some physicians may debate the efficacy of chiropractic care as a form of evidence-based medicine, our spines are most certainly involved in every kind of motion: sitting, standing, lifting, bending, twisting, walking, running, etc. Our spinal discs (shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) and facet joints (cartilage-covered joints that link our vertebrae) normally allow for pain-free articulation of the spinal column within a normal range of motion. However, both the spinal discs and facet joints naturally degenerate over time, becoming less capable of managing the body’s movements without producing back pain. Spinal discs become thinner, harder, and less pliable, while the cartilage on the end of facet joints degrades. Finding a chiropractor near me or a chiropractor Houston may help with improvement of some of the symptoms of spinal disc degeneration, and help with sciatica exercises and other forms of sciatica treatment in Houston.
chiropractor near me, chiropractor Houston, sciatica exercises, sciatica treatment, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy
Compounding all of these natural processes is the risk for physical trauma and structural deformity. If the curve of the spine deviates too far from the norm, severe back pain may result and the patient will likely lose mobility. Chiropractic care can, over several sessions, help to re-align the spine if the patient is suffering from certain structural problems. Physicians will still likely order imaging tests to examine the musculoskeletal system more closely, given that a misdiagnosis can cause serious complications. X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will help to see the spinal discs and nerves in high detail. This information will help physicians determine if the patient may experience benefits from chiropractic care (or if, on the other hand, their long-term mobility may be threatened by it).
If a chiropractor near me for chiropractic care is being considered, many physicians recommend supplementing it with a core-strengthening physical therapy regimen. Keeping muscles along the spinal column and throughout the torso strong will allow them to assist the spinal discs and facet joints in bearing the body’s weight during routine movement. Many physical therapy exercises are able to be completed at home, giving patients a continual, long-term option to maximize mobility and mediate pain levels. Sciatica exercises can be performed throughout life, not only for sciatica treatment, but for prevention of sciatica. A chiropractor Houston may be able to provide excellent guidance.
Your physicians will most likely request frequent checkups during your course of treatment. Be sure to tell your doctors all relevant information regarding your mobility and strength, as well as any information regarding changes in your pain levels during physical activity. Honesty will help you minimize back pain and maximize long-term mobility by keeping a healthy spinal column as you age.
chiropractor near me, chiropractor Houston, sciatica exercises, sciatica treatment, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX, treats patients with lower back pain, neck pain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, spinal fractures, osteoporosis of the spine, and other spinal disorders. Experts at the KBNI believe that most patients experiencing these symptoms can be treated without the need of an operation, but when surgery is necessary, the KBNI can provide the most advanced spine surgery using minimally invasive techniques when appropriate. The KBNI philosophy is that a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of low back pain, neck pain, and other spinal disorders, is the best. Chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, pain management, epidural injections, SI joint injections, and other conservative measures play a very significant role in the treatment of spine pain, in addition to the role spine surgery plays.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX takes care of patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, 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.
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 on Back and Neck Pain Treatment : Don’t Live in Fear and Pain
Keywords: chiropractor near me, chiropractor Houston, sciatica exercises, sciatica treatment, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center, TMC, Texas, TX, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Reducing Neck Pain…… Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial City, Galleria…. 281-713-6296
Posted by admin in cervical, neck pain, physical therapy, stretching on May 15, 2014
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Reducing Neck Pain
neck pain, stretching, physical therapy, muscle tension, spinal column, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial City, Galleria
Along with low back pain, neck pain is one of the most prolific afflictions of the modern workplace. Millions of workers across the globe work in positions that are mainly sedentary, many of which requiring long hours in the sitting position. This translates into increased stress on the cervical vertebrae (upper spine) and the intervertebral discs (shock-absorbing pads between each vertebra), as well as elevated levels of muscle tension in the upper spinal column. As the duration of muscle tension increases, the muscles themselves are deprived of blood and oxygen. They can eventually begin to spasm, which leads to sharp pain and a chance of compressing spinal nerves that run through the vertebrae.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute located in Houston, TX, has vast experience treating patients with neck pain. Conveniently located with offices through the Houston area, patients are seen from Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Sugar Land, Pearland, Inner Loop, the Woodlands, Kingwood, Humble, Splendora, Conroe and Magnolia. For those patients traveling from Austin, Dallas, Ft. Worth, San Antonio, or other cities across the United States, travel accommodations can be arranged.
Fortunately, due to most incidence of neck pain being the result of sedentary work, there are many ways in which to reduce most patients’ pain levels. First, patients are advised to be conscious of their daily activity. If you find yourself staring at your computer monitor or desk for extended periods of time, give your body frequent breaks. Take five to ten minutes of every hour and get up, walk around, and rotate the neck and shoulder blades. Light aerobic activity and muscle movement will increase blood circulation, bringing nutrition and oxygen to your muscles. This will help prevent cramping and muscle spasms in addition to reducing neck pain.
Other common neck strengthening exercises include slow, deliberate stretches, head rotations / neck rolls, and shoulder shrugs. This will help develop the network of supporting muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the upper spinal column. Some patients, however, may suffer from more than simple hypomobility (low mobility). If a regimen of physical therapy does not significantly improve a patient’s range of motion and decrease pain levels, a structural deformity, disease, or spinal fracture may be the cause. Physicians typically employ imaging exams—CT scans, magnetic resonance imaging, and X-rays—to determine whether structural problems are the problem. Neck surgery may be necessary, in addition to a lengthy post-operative period of physical therapy and rest.
neck pain, stretching, physical therapy, muscle tension, spinal column, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial City, Galleria
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute sees patients who have neck pain, arm pain, and other disorders of the spine. Patients do not need any imaging studies or other tests. Appropriate testing can be ordered after patients are evaluated. Most patients suffering from neck pain can be treated successfully without the need for surgery.
Keywords: neck pain, physical therapy, muscle tension, spinal column, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial City, Galleria,
Cervical Vertebrae
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Cervical Vertebrae
cervical vertebrae
The cervical vertebrae (C1-C7) are the first seven vertebrae connecting the base of the skull to the rest of the spine. Like the rest of the spine, between each cervical vertebra there is a shock-absorbing pad called a disk. These disks, along with the structures of the cervical vertebrae, allow the human neck to be a highly mobile region of the body.
Structurally, the first two cervical vertebrae (C1-C2, or the atlas and axis, respectively) are substantially different due to their role in supporting the weight of the human skull. As is the case with the thicker, stronger lumbar vertebrae at the base of the spine, cervical vertebrae are specialized to fulfill their function of granting people painless, continuous mobility of the neck and upper spine. Cervical vertebrae are further supported by a network of tendons, muscles, and ligaments which all work in tandem to provide additional support.
Unfortunately, neck pain is one of the most common causes for people to miss work. Long hours of stationary positioning (typical in office work) can cause chronic tension and deprive neck muscles of oxygen. This in turn can cause spasms, which can compress nerves that run through the spinal canal. Since the neck is so highly mobile and painless operation is a crucial component of quality of life, patients are advised to take measures to reduce the incidence of neck pain. Regular exercise—even simply pausing to roll the neck and shoulders once an hour—can restore oxygen and nutrition to neck muscles. Light aerobic activity is also recommended for 5-10 minutes per hour of stationary work.
Should neck pain become chronic, surgical procedures may be prescribed. Patients should be especially mindful of neck pain that shoots down into the arms or legs, as this may indicate nerve damage. Be certain to obtain thorough medical consultation, however, given that surgery on highly mobile regions of the body can have negative long-term effects. Healthy dieting, nutritional supplements, and regular installments of physical therapy can help aid patient recovery during post-operative care. Several post-operative checkups may also be necessary to monitor any structural changes within the cervical spine.
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