Archive for category chiropractor near me

Cervical Sprain and Cervical Strain: Review by KBNI Houston, Kingwood, Katy, the Woodlands, Spring, Sugarland, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont

Cervical Sprain and Cervical Strain

cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury

cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury

 

A high quality of life is dependent on many things, one of which is the pain-free operation of our joints over a normal range of motion. When a cervical sprain or strain occurs, however, patients typically experience headaches, neck pain that grows worse over time, and moderate-to-severe muscle tension in the neck. All of these symptoms reduce mobility and range of motion, things that can substantially lower one’s quality of life given how frequently we need to move our necks and rotate our heads.

 

cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury

cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury

 

There is a difference between cervical sprain and cervical strain.  Cervical sprain is a stretch or tear of a ligament, which is a band of connective tissue which connects one bone to another.  A cervical strain is an injury to a muscle and/or a tendon, which is a fibrous cord of tissue which attaches muscles to a bone.

 

cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury

cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury

 

Most commonly, cervical sprains and / or strains occur during an acceleration-deceleration injury (usually called whiplash, as these injuries frequently occur as a result of an automobile accident). Portions of the neck may be temporarily extended beyond their normal range of motion and patients experience inflammation along the spinal column and corresponding headaches. Damage to the spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) may also occur, placing nearby spinal nerves at risk for compression. If the spinal discs become herniated (slipped, or ruptured) as a result of the accident, patients may find it necessary to implement a long-term physical therapy regimen or chiropractic treatment in order to preserve mobility.

 

cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury

cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury

 

Generally, cervical sprain or cervical strain is treatable in the same ways that common muscle strains, sprains, and pulls are: rest, hydration, and non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen all help to mediate acute pain levels and restore some degree of the patient’s prior mobility. If the whiplash injury was severe or if the patient’s range of motion has declined considerably (along with acute neck pain), doctors will likely advocate for imaging exams to determine the extent of the damage within the neck. X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help doctors examine the soft tissues in the neck (spinal nerves, muscles, ligaments, spinal discs) to narrow the possible root causes for patients’ neck pain.

 

When it comes to preserving-long-term mobility, most physicians will recommend physical therapy or chiropractic therapy that emphasizes core strength training. Strong muscles along the spinal column, throughout the torso, and including the shoulders and neck will allow these muscles to assist in managing the weight of the skull. Strong muscles will relieve pressure from spinal discs, lowering the incidence of compressed spinal nerves and ultimately lowering a patient’s pain levels. Physical therapy or chiropractic therapy will also help maintain a patient’s general quality of life as they age by building flexibility and maintaining optimal muscle mass. Finally, physical therapy or chiropractic treatment will allow patients the best chance at re-gaining a relatively pain-free range of motion.

 

The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX takes care of patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Pearland, Galleria, Beaumont, Baytown, Clear Lake, Port Arthur, Katy, the Woodlands, Spring, Memorial City, Humble, Kingwood, Conroe, Tomball, Missouri City, Texas City, and Texas Medical Center (TMC)

 

Patients suffering from a low back pain or neck pain, or who have been told they may require a low back surgery or neck sugery, 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: cervical sprain, cervical strain, neck pain, range of motion, physical therapy, chiropractic, spinal, injury, Houston, Kingwood, Katy, the Woodlands, Spring, Sugarland, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont

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Living with Back Pain: Self-Education review KBNI Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Spring, Katy, Pearland, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial, Conroe, Beaumont

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Living with Back Pain: Self-Education

back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury,  chiropractor,  pain levels, nerve damage

back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury, chiropractor, pain levels, nerve damage

Living with Back Pain: Self-Education review KBNI Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Spring, Katy, Pearland, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial, Conroe, Beaumont

Low back pain is one of the most common reasons for missing work in the modern world, yet many still believe its origins are a mystery. Normally, low back pain is caused by a set of very predictable (and unfortunately, all-too-common) conditions. Too much strenuous activity (bending, heavy lifting, twisting, fast or repetitive articulation of the spinal column) accelerates the natural wear on spinal discs as well as the cartilage covering the ends of the facet joints (the joints that allow for articulation of the spinal column). Too much sedentary activity (sitting at an office computer monitor, standing for excessive periods of time) depletes the oxygen supplies of tensed muscles in the back, often leading to painful muscle spasms and an increased chance of compressed spinal nerves. As such, back pain patients need to take steps to educate themselves on how to best maintain the stability and pain-free articulation of their spinal columns as they age.

back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury,  chiropractor,  pain levels, nerve damage

back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury, chiropractor, pain levels, nerve damage

Self-education is vital not only to mediating back pain levels, but also for maintaining a high quality of life as you age. Too many people give up on activities (such as physical therapy or yoga) that boost strength and flexibility. As a result, they gradually lose mobility and their pain levels continue to rise during activities that they once found quite manageable. Perhaps the most important tenet of living with back pain is an understanding that regular exercise is essential to mediating pain levels. Core strengthening exercises develop muscles along the spinal column and throughout the torso, lessening the shocks and stresses of everyday movement for compromised spinal discs and facet joints. Stretching is also very important to loosen the muscles, and gently stretch the tendons.

Beyond physical therapy designed to strengthen the core, however, it’s important that back patients understand their own bodies. Know which activities represent a higher risk of back pain and how to avoid them, and prevent back injury. Learn the difference between muscle soreness (such as from a vigorous workout) and sharp back pain resulting from compressed spinal nerves and herniated discs (which, over time, can lead to muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and nerve damage and sciatica ). Communicate honestly and often with your physician regarding your progress in your physical therapy program or chiropractic program. Are certain exercises causing too much (or the wrong kind of) pain? Which exercises seem to be most effective at getting you through your routine? What elements of your lifestyle have you had to change in order to mediate pain levels and how have these changes helped? Giving your doctor all of this information will help in making specific adjustments to your physical therapy regimen or chiropractic regimen in order to give you the best chances of retaining your long-term mobility.

back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury,  chiropractor,  pain levels, nerve damage, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Spring, Katy, Pearland, Kingwood, Humble, Beaumont, Memorial, Conroe

back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury, chiropractor, pain levels, nerve damage, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Spring, Katy, Pearland, Kingwood, Humble, Beaumont, Memorial, Conroe

Physician spine experts  at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston have significant expertise treating many patients suffering from low back pain and neck pain, without the need for surgery on the spine.  When surgery is necessary, the latest techniques in minimally invasive surgery of the spine are available.  Neurosurgeon experts will evaluate patients, and review images of the spine, and help the patient to try to get through the pain they are experiencing, and return them to a normal and healthy lifestyle, when possible.

Patients may have suffered a car or truck motor vehicle accident, or been in some other type of motor vehicle accident or other personal injury.  Many patients may recall a specific injury to the spine, which had caused the onset of pain, while others don’t recall any type of injury, but have had a gradual onset of pain.  Some patients may simply have turned the wrong way, or got up out of bed the wrong way.  No matter what the cause of pain is, physician experts at the KBNI will be happy to evaluate any patient experiencing neck pain, low back pain, or pain in the arms or legs.

back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury,  chiropractor,  pain levels, nerve damage, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Spring, Katy, Pearland, Kingwood, Humble, Beaumont, Memorial, Conroe

back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury, chiropractor, pain levels, nerve damage, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Spring, Katy, Pearland, Kingwood, Humble, Beaumont, Memorial, Conroe

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, 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

 

 

Keywords: back pain, low back pain, spinal discs, physical therapy, chiropractic, injury, personal injury,  chiropractor,  pain levels, nerve damage, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Spring, Katy, Pearland, Kingwood, Humble, Beaumont, Memorial, Conroe, Sealy, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas

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Dehydration and the Spine review by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Kingwood, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown, Pearland

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Dehydration and the Spine

dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting,  back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston

dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting, back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston

Our spinal column wears naturally over time, gradually degenerating according to age and lifestyle. This means that muscles along the spinal column slowly lose elasticity and mass, while spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) lose pliability and height while becoming harder and less capable of bearing shock. The ends of our facet joints (the joints that link the vertebrae and allow for the articulation of the spinal column) are encased in cartilage which also naturally wears over time. Wear and tear on all of the spinal column’s components is exacerbated by lifestyle choices: obesity (excess weight) , repeated heavy lifting and twisting, overextension, and long periods of sedentary activity.

dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting,  back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston

dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting, back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston

Dehydration also has negative consequences for the spinal column, but many people do not realize its’ risks. A patient in a dehydrated or near-dehydrated state exacerbates the wear on all of his or her joints, including the facet joints in the spinal column. This puts nearby spinal nerves at risk, as dehydrated spinal discs are thinner and vertebrae are physically closer together than they would be otherwise. Incidence of compressed spinal nerves (and corresponding sharp back pain and extremity pain) is higher when dehydrated spinal discs and facet joints are unable to keep nearby vertebrae from impinging on spinal nerves.

A preventive lifestyle can go a long way toward preventing dehydration-related back pain. Proper weight management, regular cardiovascular exercise, healthy dieting (nutrition) , hydration and adequate rest are all pillars of the preventive lifestyle physicians recommend for combating a wide variety of illnesses, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. If you live an active lifestyle or engage in physically strenuous activity for work or during recreation, consider supplementing your water with electrolytes.

dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting,  back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center  (TMC)

dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting, back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC)

While proper hydration may help mediate your back pain, it will not likely be cured by hydration alone. You should explore other long-term strategies, such as physical therapy, chiropractic, to mediate pain levels. Physical therapy for the spine performed by a physical therapist, or chiropractic performed by a chiropractor, develops muscles along the spinal column and throughout the torso. These muscles assist degenerated spinal discs and facet joints in managing the body’s weight distribution and can relieve pressure from the body’s joints. Physical therapy also represents a long-term solution for back pain, as it mediates pain levels and helps patients retain their mobility as they age. Before implementing a regimen, however, patients are advised to check with their physicians to verify that the stability of their spinal column is up to the challenge. Doctors will most likely need several checkups (including imaging tests) to determine a course of treatment that’s right for you.

dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting,  back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center  (TMC)

dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting, back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC)

Experts in spine at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) are extremely experienced at treating a large variety of disorders of the spine, which may cause pain in the neck, low back, or the arms or legs.  While non-surgical measures are implemented most of the time, surgery on the spine (including the most advanced minimally invasive spine surgery techniques) are available when needed.

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 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.

 

 

Keywords: dehydration, spinal column, spinal disks, back pain, obesity, nutrition, dieting,  back injury prevention, physical therapy, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center  (TMC)

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Sex and Back Pain : Review by KBNI serving Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Sugar Land, Conroe, Texas

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Sex and Back Pain

sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Sugar Land, Beaumont, Port Arthur, Galveston, Conroe, Texas

sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Sugar Land, Beaumont, Port Arthur, Galveston, Conroe, Texas

 

Decreased mobility resulting from back pain lowers one’s quality of life in many ways, and sex is no exception. As uncomfortable as it may be to admit, back pain lowers sexual performance, often to the point where many positions are too painful and couples find themselves straining to find ways to be sexually intimate. Fortunately, by following a few simple steps, you can navigate even serious back pain successfully enough to pursue a wide variety of sexual positions with your partner.

First, investigate your back pain as thoroughly as possible. Get a full physical examination from your doctor to narrow the possible causes for your pain. Imaging tests (x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging) may be necessary if your back pain is not resolving over time or if soft tissue damage (particularly to the spinal nerves) is suspected. Report any changes to the duration, intensity, location, or frequency of your back pain, as these changes can signify a worsening problem.

sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Sugar Land, Beaumont, Port Arthur, Galveston, Conroe, Texas

sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Sugar Land, Beaumont, Port Arthur, Galveston, Conroe, Texas

Also, be sure to communicate your needs to your partner. Experiment to find sexual positions that are conducive to both physical intimacy and individual comfort. Too many back pain patients wait until serious damage has been done prior to explaining their discomfort. Take the time to explain your pain to your partner and work together to find the positions that work for both of you until you can boost core strength enough to lessen your pain. You may also wish to change your sleeping surface. If you experience more severe back pain first thing in the morning and then find it gradually lessens throughout the day, it’s possible that your mattress may be causing a large portion of the problem. Staying hydrated throughout the day will also help to reduce joint-related pain, which is especially important for the facet joints that link the vertebrae in the spinal column.

Finally, pursue physical therapy or chiropractor exercises to the fullest extent authorized by your physician. Those of us with relatively sedentary jobs often worsen the health of our spinal column without even realizing it. Far from being a fragile thing, the spinal column requires a certain amount of exercise in order to efficiently re-hydrate the spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) with important nutrients. If we don’t get this exercise, the spinal discs’ natural degenerative processes accelerate and we quickly find ourselves with a smaller range of motion, less endurance, and a higher risk for injury. Physical therapy increases core strength, which allows the muscles along the spinal column and throughout the torso to assist the body during routine activity. A stronger core will raise the number of sexual positions you and your partner can achieve without having to worry about excessive back pain.

sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston

sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston

 

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor about what you can do to improve your comfort and safety during sexual activities.  Because it involves sexual activity, many patients are afraid to ask their doctors, and may end up in a situation in which they cause further injury to their spine.  The last thing one wants to do is cause further damage to the spine, if damage already exists.  A physician who is an expert in the spine can rule out certain disorders, such as herniated disc, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, spondylolisthesis and spondylolysis, and SI (sacro iliac) joint pain, all of which can cause back and lower extremity pain.

Physician experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston, TX have great experience in treating patients with low back painneck pain, and injuries to the neck and low back.  In the majority of cases, surgery can be avoided. Patients experiencing back pain during sexual activity can contact the KBNI for evaluation, guidance and advice.

 

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

 

 

sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston

sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston

 

Keywords:sex, back pain, sexual position, spinal column, spinal discs, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Sugar Land, Beaumont, Port Arthur, Galveston, Conroe, Texas

 

Other articles related to Sex and Back Pain:

http://www.spinehealth.com/essays-sex-and-back-pain-chapter-1.php

http://www.spinehealth.com/essays-sex-and-back-pain-chapter-2.php

http://www.spinehealth.com/essays-sex-and-back-pain-chapter-3.php

https://spinehealth.com/blog/intimacy-and-back-pain/

https://spinehealth.com/blog/pain-at-the-base-of-the-spine/

http://lowback-pain.com/sexandlowbackpain.htm

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Back Braces review by KBNI Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Memorial City, Kingwood, Pearland, Spring, Texas Medical Center

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Back Braces Review

 

spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston

spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston

Occasionally, physical trauma compromises the stability of the spinal column and causes extreme spine pain and back pain. Accidents, fractures, and degeneration in the spinal discs (shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) can all cause destabilization in the spinal column. Destabilization generally has serious consequences for patient mobility given that we depend on pain-free articulation of the spine for almost all of our routine daily movement (sitting, standing, bending, twisting, lifting, etc.). Destabilization represents a serious health risk to the long-term mobility of patients, as nearby spinal nerves may be compressed or lacerated from shards of vertebrae or spinal discs damaged by trauma. Vertebral bone must be given time enough to heal within a framework of relative immobility.

spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston

spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston

Back braces provide this framework during the post-operative course of treatment and give patients the stability they need for their bodies to re-fuse portions of the spinal column. Generally, back braces are divided into two principal categories: corset braces (also known as elastic braces) and rigid braces. Corset braces are on occasion recommended after spinal fusion surgery to limit a patient’s motion by not allowing them to bend forward. They are also sometimes used by workers who regularly engage in heavy lifting on the job. Under such conditions, corset braces help reduce the likelihood of trauma to spinal disks (slipped or herniated disks) and torn muscles along the spinal column.

spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Memorial City, Kingwood, Pearland, Spring, Texas Medical Center, Conroe

spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Memorial City, Kingwood, Pearland, Spring, Texas Medical Center, Conroe

Rigid braces, on the other hand, are contoured to the patient’s body and limit at least 50% motion of the spinal column. Rigid braces are hotter, more unwieldy, and more uncomfortable than corset braces. Both kinds of brace operate on the principle that bone grows best when little movement is involved, allowing our osteoblasts (bone tissue-generating cells) to bridge the fracture gap with as little interruption and difficulty as possible. Based on the patient’s individual healing progress as well as the nature of the trauma to the spinal column, decisions to employ back braces are typically made on a case-by-case basis.

spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Memorial City, Kingwood, Pearland, Spring, Texas Medical Center, Conroe

spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Memorial City, Kingwood, Pearland, Spring, Texas Medical Center, Conroe

While both rigid braces and corset braces are effective at minimizing motion during the healing process, they are by no means the only avenue of physical rehabilitation in which a patient should engage. Consult your physician regarding physical therapy or chiropractic rehabilitation to re-develop muscles along the spinal column. Developing strong core muscles throughout the torso will assist degenerated or destabilized spinal disks in managing the body’s weight distribution during routine movement. Frequent checkups with your physician will allow individualized adjustments to your course of treatment.

Physician experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston, TX have great experience in treating patients with low back pain, neck pain, and injuries to the neck and low back.  In the majority of cases, surgery can be avoided.

 

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: spinal discs, spinal column, back brace, rigid braces, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Memorial City, Kingwood, Pearland, Spring, Texas Medical Center, Conroe, Galveston

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Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation review by KBNI Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial City, Tomball

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Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation

Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation review by KBNI Houston

Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation review by KBNI Houston

Housed within the spinal canal, the spinal nerves provide sensation to most of the body. Generally, compressed spinal nerves happen as a result of age-related degeneration of the spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae). As we grow older, spinal discs become thinner, harder, and less pliable, reducing their ability to absorb the stresses of everyday movement. Spinal nerves may also be compressed through serious trauma, such as improper lifting techniques or accidents.

Back pain related to spinal nerve compression is generally quite sharp and significantly reduces mobility in patients. Immediate treatment options include over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which often reduce pain levels enough for the patient to explore other options for treatment. Physical therapy or treatment by a chiropractor represent both a short-term and long-term solution, as strong muscles in the torso and along the spinal column will assist spinal discs in bearing the body’s stresses. This in turn will reduce the incidence of compressed spinal nerves.

spinal nerves, spinal discs, physical therapy, back pain, Houston,  Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Kingwood, Humble, Spring, Beaumont, Tomball,  Port Arthur, Conroe

spinal nerves, spinal discs, physical therapy, back pain, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Kingwood, Humble, Spring, Beaumont, Tomball, Port Arthur, Conroe

Occasionally, more conservative treatments like physical therapy or treatment by a chiropractor and pain medication aren’t enough to treat a patient’s nerve-related back pain. When a patient experiences muscle weakness along with nerve pain, it’s time to explore other treatment options. Physicians will likely order imaging exams (magnetic resonance imaging, x-rays) to confirm that spinal nerves are being compressed, as well as what the offending structure (e.g. bone spur) might be. After thorough analysis, physicians can then make recommendations on augmenting physical therapy or treatment by a chiropractor to better suit the patient’s pain levels or explore other options entirely. Major back surgery may be necessary to mechanically decompress  the offending nerves or to remove the obstruction responsible for compression.

If patients are regularly experiencing compressed spinal nerves outside the context of heavy lifting, see your doctor. Provide detailed, truthful information regarding your work history, lifestyle, and exercise habits. Be sure to account for any recreational activities that may also have been responsible, as the physician can only make an accurate prescription for course of treatment if he or she has all the relevant information. Combined with the results of your imaging exams, physicians will then direct your course of treatment according to the severity of the nerve compression. Back surgery or surgery for herniated disc may be an option, but it is possible that more conservative treatments will mediate your back pain to the point where more extensive treatment will not be needed. It is advised that you immediately contact your physician if your pain becomes sharper and more constant, or if you experience muscle weakness or loss of bladder control. All of these issues can indicate impending nerve damage.

Neurosurgeons at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston, TX have significant experiencing treating pain and nerve compression.  When conservative measures fail, or if otherwise indicated, the latest techniques in minimally invasive spine surgery are used to help relieve pain.

spinal nerves, spinal discs, physical therapy, back pain, Houston,  Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Kingwood, Humble, Spring, Beaumont, Tomball,  Port Arthur, Conroe

spinal nerves, spinal discs, physical therapy, back pain, Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Kingwood, Humble, Spring, Beaumont, Tomball, Port Arthur, Conroe

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: spinal nerves, spinal discs, physical therapy, back pain, Houston,

Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Galleria, Memorial City, Kingwood, Humble, Spring, Beaumont, Tomball,  Port Arthur, Conroe

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Mobility during Recovery from Back Surgery review by KBNI Houston, Katy, Sugarland, Woodlands, Spring, Kingwood, Memorial City

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MOBILITY DURING RECOVERY FROM BACK SURGERY

back surgery, back pain, physical therapy, pain levels, Houston

back surgery, back pain, physical therapy, pain levels, Houston

Normally, back surgery is treated as a last resort if more conservative treatments (i.e., physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, anti-inflammatory drugs, facet joint injections, etc.) have failed to adequately reduce pain levels and restore mobility. Physicians and patients alike should approach back surgery as a calculated risk, one taken to maximize long-term health and mobility while giving the patient the best chance at consistently low-to-moderate pain levels during recovery. Post-operative care is a different matter entirely, however, as many patients aren’t prepared for the loss in mobility that comes after major back surgery. Large incisions, which in many back procedures are necessary to give the surgeon vision of the damaged portion of the spine, also can severely damage muscles and other soft tissue along the spinal column. This trauma greatly reduces patient mobility during post-operative care, as the muscles have essentially been rendered unable to do their jobs.

back surgery, back pain, physical therapy, pain levels, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble, Conroe, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Memorial City, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin

back surgery, back pain, physical therapy, pain levels, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble, Conroe, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Memorial City, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin

For patients, compromised mobility can present maddening challenges during post-operative care, not to mention complications. For example, surgical site infection (SSI) occurs from contamination of the surgical site, either during the operation itself or at some point during recovery. SSI is particularly dangerous if the contamination is internal, such as a contaminated plate or screw that has been implanted to stabilize the spinal column (lumbar fusion) . Patients will most likely be unable to adequately check their own incision sites for signs of infection, so family members and friends may be needed for not only this task, but to change the patient’s dressing as well.

Physical therapy / chiropractic therapy during post-operative care for back surgery is generally focused on preserving long-term mobility. If the muscles along the spinal column that were damaged by the surgeon’s incisions are not adequately worked during recovery, patients may soon find themselves incapable of bending and twisting beyond the physician’s weight-related restrictions. In other words, avoiding physical therapy can potentially result in a permanent reduction in range of motion. On the other hand, too much activity can de-stabilize implanted devices and re-tear healing muscles, prolonging the healing process and increasing the likelihood for additional corrective surgeries.

back surgery, back pain, physical therapy, pain levels, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble, Conroe, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Memorial City, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin

back surgery, back pain, physical therapy, pain levels, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble, Conroe, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Memorial City, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin

Physicians will likely recommend several checkup visits during post-operative care in order to accurately gauge your progress and make necessary adjustments to your physical therapy regimen. Some back pain is normal and expected, but if your pain changes suddenly or begins to radiate through your ribs, legs, or arms, seek medical attention. Radiating back pain and muscle weakness often signals spinal nerve compression, which over the long-term may cause nerve damage and permanent loss of sensation. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help mediate pain levels, though during the initial healing process, physicians may authorize stronger prescription pain medication.

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.

Keywords: back surgery, back pain, physical therapy, pain levels, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble, Conroe, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Memorial City, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin

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Proper Lifting, Posture and Low Back Pain review by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center TMC

 

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spine, low back pain, proper lifting, posture,  Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center

spine, low back pain, proper lifting, posture, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center

Proper Lifting, Posture and Low Back Pain review by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Memorial City

Patients with low back pain worldwide can, following their injuries, attest to the importance of lifting correctly and using good posture of the body and of the spine. Improper lifting technique typically results in three different types of injury to the lumbar spine: 1) muscle injury, which can tear muscle tissue and affect mobility, 2) spinal disc injury, in which the shock-absorbing capability of the disc between our vertebrae is compromised, and 3) joint injury, in which repetitive load-bearing stress can wear out the pliable cartilage which covers the end of each spinal joint.  Keeping the spine and body in a proper posture will decrease strain on the muscles, joints and discs of the spine.  This will help to decrease the incidence or prevent low back pain.

spine, low back pain, proper lifting, posture,  Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center

spine, low back pain, proper lifting, posture, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center

The key to avoiding spinal injuries while lifting is proper lifting technique and posture. First, be certain to keep the chest forward while bending at the hips, rather than at the lumbar spine. Bending over at the lumbar spine and lifting will dramatically increase intraspinal pressure, which increases incidence of muscle tears and herniated (ruptured) spinal discs. Bending at the hips, on the other hand, keeps the weight close to the body’s center of gravity and does not raise intraspinal pressure to nearly the same levels. Secondly, torsional movement (twisting) while lifting even small objects can produce a serious spinal injury relatively quickly. For larger objects that are too wide to grasp fully and keep close to the body, obtain the help of another person to minimize risk. Always keeping in mind proper posture is important.

After lifting and moving all of the requisite objects, low back pain may occur as a result of muscle fatigue. Be certain to give your back adequate time, rest, and healthy fuel to recover. If low back pain levels in or around the spinal column have not subsided within three days, medical consultation is advised. Physicians will typically conduct a series of physical tests designed to determine a patient’s range of motion. If mobility is compromised or if the patient’s range of motion is otherwise reduced, these tests will help lower the number of causes for the specific variety of spinal injury in question. Physicians may also require imaging tests (X-Rays, CT scans, and magnetic resonance imaging) to confirm their diagnosis, and to prescribe an accurate, effective course of treatment.

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spine, low back pain, proper lifting, posture, 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

Chiropractors and physical therapists can help patients with education on the proper techniques for lifting and exercising, to prevent or treat low back pain.  Both chiropractors and physical therapists are experts in posture and biomechanics of the body, and injury prevention.  Chiropractors and physical therapists are experts in not only rehabilitating and strengthening the spine after an injury, but also in using good posture and biomechanics to prevent an injury to the spine.

Physician experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX have significant experience treating patients who have suffered an injury to the spine, and also in advising on the proper biomechanics and posture of the spine and body to prevent injuries to the spine and low back pain or neck pain.  They offer a wide range of treatment options for treating spine injury, and neck and low back pain.

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: spine, low back pain, proper lifting, posture, 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

 

spine, low back pain, proper lifting, posture,  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

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Spine Health Core Strengthening with Spine KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center TMC

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spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

SPINE HEALTH CORE STRENGTHENING HOUSTON

Spine health maintenance is imperative for a healthy body.  A number of factors are important for maintaining proper spine health.  Proper posture, core strengthening, rest, nutrition, cessation of smoking, and proper shoes are a good foundation.  The spine is integral to all of our routine movement. Even when we are standing still or simply sitting, the spine is still responsible for bearing much of the stresses placed on the body. Like other parts of the body, the spinal column is a collection of ligaments, muscle tissue, tendons, articulated vertebrae (the bones of our spine), and spinal discs (shock-absorbing pads that are between vertebrae and assist in load-bearing stress and movement). With so many components in constant use, it is easy to see why spine health is essential to a high quality of life.

The spinal column also protects the spinal cord, which in turn houses the central nervous system’s spinal nerves, which wind through the vertebrae and transmit sensation and signals for voluntary muscle control to the rest of the body. Protecting these sensitive spinal nerves from trauma is crucial for high function. This involves proper hydration and nutrition for the spinal disks, as well as core strengthening exercises to build the support network of ligaments, tendons, and muscles in the torso to assist the spinal discs in bearing the stresses of movement. Core strengthening will thusly decrease wear on the spinal disks, which significantly reduces the possibility of the vertebrae compressing spinal nerves and causing extreme pain.  Core strengthening exercises can be done alone, or with the expert guidance of a physical therapist for physical therapy, or a chiropractor for chiropractic training.  These experts will also guide patients in the proper use of good body mechanics for bending, lifting and twisting.

spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

Choosing comfortable, well-fitted shoes is another simple way of maintaining spine health. Shoes are so common they are often overlooked as a source of pain, but improperly fitted or worn shoes are much less effective at providing shock absorption for the body. Spinal joints and discs, as a consequence, receive more load-bearing stress in all daily movements. A healthy, varied diet, nutritional supplements, and proper weight management will all also aid the spinal column in managing the stress of everyday movement. Excessive weight can actually displace disks within the spinal column, causing them to rupture or compress nearby spinal nerves. Through weight management, a healthy diet, and a regimen of core strengthening exercises, patients can maximize spine health while minimizing pain levels and wear on the spinal column.

spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, Houston

spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, Houston

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.  Many times, proper guidance from an expert as to body mechanics, posture, core strengthening and nutrition may improve spine health and reduce spine pain.

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

www.SpinePain.com

www.NeckPain.com

www.SurgerySpine.com


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

spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, Houston

spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, Houston

Keywords: spine health, core strengthening, spinal health, 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

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Recover from Spinal Fusion discussion by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Galveston, Texas Medical Center

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spinal fusion, recover, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

spinal fusion, recover, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

Spinal fusion is a back or neck surgery in which vertebrae within the spinal column are fused together to eliminate movement at points of articulation (joints) between them. This can lower spinal mobility overall, but often spinal fusion can have a net positive effect for a patient due to decreased pain levels and increased spinal stability. When a spinal fusion is performed in the cervical spine (neck), it is known as a cervical fusion.  When the spinal fusion is performed in the lumbar spine (low back), it is called a lumbar fusion.  It can take some time to recover after this type of surgery.

To recover from a spinal fusion can be difficult based on the invasiveness of the surgery itself and the length of the post-operative care period. To recover, patients may need to make significant lifestyle changes in order to aid recovery and ensure that a stable fusion takes place as the bones of the spinal column grow back together. Eliminating smoking entirely is absolutely essential. Cigarettes contain elevated levels of nicotine, which is a chemical shown to be highly toxic to bone growth. Nicotine kills the body’s osteoblasts (bone-growing cells), while leaving our bone-eating cells (osteoclasts) alive. Spinal fusion patients who smoke during post-operative recovery are much less likely to maintain a stable spinal column, and may restrict bone growth while extending their less successful recovery by several months. If a patient wants a stable spinal fusion that minimizes the possibility of subsequent corrective surgeries, eliminating smoking is possibly the single greatest factor that aids recovery.

spinal fusion, recover, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

spinal fusion, recover, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

To recover, patients must also be certain to follow guidelines regarding physical therapy, exercise, and motion during their post-operative care period. Core strengthening exercises can be guided by a chiropractor or physical therapy. Physical therapy or chiropractic guidance and education can also help to teach about how to prevent future spine injuries.  Spinal fusion is one of the more intensive varieties of back surgery, and physicians must document the recovery process accurately to ensure that the patient’s spinal column is stable enough for everyday motion. This requires subsequent visits for imaging tests (typically X-rays, in the case of spinal fusion) to monitor bone growth. There may be strict guidelines for the amount a patient can lift or the length of time in which the patient may stand, sit, or walk during the course of their daily routines.  The amount of time needed to recover may vary widely depending on how old the patient is (younger patients generally re-grow bone more quickly than older patients) as well as the physical requirements of their occupation.

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spinal fusion, recover, 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

In some cases, the physician who performed the spinal fusion may have the patient wear an external brace to help recover.  This will help support the body, and reduce movement of the fused area of the spine, while new bone is attempting to grow, and accomplish the spinal fusion.

Some patients may wear an external bone growth stimulator, if prescribed by their doctor.  The bone growth stimulator provides an electric current around the body, which stimulates bone growth.

Physician experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX have significant experience at taking care of patients and helping them to recover after undergoing spinal fusion.  Many times, surgery can be avoided, but when necessary, the neurosurgeons at the KBNI have the most current techniques in minimally invasive spine surgery available 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, 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

www.SpinePain.com

www.NeckPain.com

www.SurgerySpine.com


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: spinal fusion, recover, 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

 

spinal fusion, recover, 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

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Lumbar Stenosis, Cervical Stenosis, Arthritis, Spinal Stenosis and Effects of Aging on Spine discussion KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Beaumont, Texas Medical Center TMC

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lumbar stenosis, cervical stenosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring

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

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

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

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

www.SpinePain.com


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

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

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Herniated Disc Houston, Herniated Disc Surgery Houston review by KBNI Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland, Beaumont, Baytown, Memorial City, TMC Texas Medical Center

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herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Beaumont

herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Beaumont

A herniated disc is an extremely common problem and diagnosis in the United States, leading many to consider herniated disc surgery. The spinal discs are flexible pads that sit between each of our vertebrae and act as shock-absorbers for the spine and body. Each spinal disc is composed of a tough exterior (annulus fibrosus) wrapped around a softer, jelly-like interior nucleus pulposus). Over time, our spinal discs naturally degenerate, becoming thinner, harder, and less capable of absorbing the stresses of everyday movement. This condition is known as degenerative disc disease.  Excessive wear and tear (such as from bending and twisting or repetitive heavy lifting) will accelerate the natural wearing process and increase the chances of compressed spinal nerves and severe back pain or leg pain (sciatica) or arm pain  . Normally, we are able to weather the changes in our spine as we age without severe pain, but sometimes this is not the case. Certain structural problems, like herniated discs, can reduce mobility significantly.

A herniated disc occurs when a disc is damaged to the point that some of the soft inner material of the disc protrudes through a hole in some of the disc’s tough exterior. Holes may occur in many different ways, including age or sudden physical trauma. After the protrusion occurs, the disc is now displaced in the spinal column and may impinge on nearby spinal nerves, causing extreme back pain or leg pain (sciatica) or arm pain. This is not the case for all herniated disc patients, however. Sometimes the injury is gradual and patients do not feel as much pain, even though their spinal discs may have suffered serious trauma. If a spinal herniated disc problem is suspected, patients should seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor will give you a complete physical examination to narrow the possible causes for your back pain or sciatica. Imaging tests (x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging) will help determine if the soft tissues of the spinal discs and nerves has been damaged and to what extent.

herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Beaumont

herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Beaumont

Fortunately, in most cases it is possible for herniated disc patients to preserve their mobility and improve  their pain levels. Physical therapy or chiropractor treatment designed to strengthen core muscles in the torso and along the spinal column will help patients immeasurably during their recovery. Core-strengthening exercises help patients by allowing muscles in the torso to better assist in load-bearing during the body’s routine movement. A stronger core therefore means a lower incidence of re-injury, relief for nearby spinal nerves, and a higher overall quality of life for patients. For some herniated disc patients, however, their back pain may be too severe to be mediated solely by physical therapy or other conservative treatments. These patients may need corrective back surgery or herniated disc surgery to remove parts of the damaged disc and re-stabilize the spinal column with metal plates and / or screws (spinal fusion) in the lumbar spine or an anterior cervical discectomy with fusion in the cervical spine. Physical therapy is also typically involved in post-operative care for back surgery patients.

Expert physicians at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI)  in Houston TX have expertise in treating patients with herniated disc Houston.  At the KBNI, neurosurgeon experts believe that most patients with a herniated disc can be treated without the need of an operation, and they can frequently implement a course of treatment which improves patient’s pain without the need of a surgery.  When herniated disc surgery Houston is needed, neurosurgical experts at the KBNI employ the most current minimally invasive spine surgery techniques when appropriate.

herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston

herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston

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.

 

Patients suffering from a herniated disc 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: herniated disc, herniated disc surgery, herniated disc Houston, 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

 

herniated disc Houston, 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

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Chiropractor Near Me and Sciatica Exercises with Chiropractor Houston, Sciatica Treatment discussion by KBNI Houston

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chiropractor near me, chiropractor Houston, sciatica exercises, sciatica treatment, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy

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

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

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

 

chiropractor, sciatica, Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland

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