Archive for category herniated disc

How the Spine Develops as We Age review KBNI Houston, Beaumont, Baytown, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Pearland

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 How the Spine Develops as We Age   

 

 

spinal discs, spinal nerves, back pain, spinal column, Houston

spinal discs, spinal nerves, back pain, spinal column, Houston

The human spinal column is made up of vertebrae, ligaments, muscles, facet joints (the joints that link our vertebrae) and spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae). Spinal nerves wind their way around vertebrae and provide sensation to much of the body. All of these components interact to allow for a pain-free normal range of motion during routine movement. Since the spinal column is involved in almost every kind of human motion (sitting, standing, running, bending, lifting, twisting, etc.), pain-free articulation of the spinal column is essential for a high quality of life.

spinal discs, spinal nerves, back pain, spinal column, Houston

spinal discs, spinal nerves, back pain, spinal column, Houston

Though the human body may be an incredible machine, its mechanical components do not escape wear and tear. The cartilage on the ends of our facet joints naturally degrades over time and the wear is exacerbated by repeated heavy lifting or lifting combined with torsional (twisting) motion. This places nearby spinal nerves at a higher risk for nerve compression, which causes extreme back pain and decreased mobility. Since spinal discs naturally degenerate as we get older, becoming harder, less pliable, thinner, and less capable of bearing shock, the spinal nerves have a higher risk of compression, given that as spinal discs shrink, the distance between vertebrae lessens accordingly. Typically this means a smaller range of motion for back pain patients as they grow older.

spinal discs, spinal nerves, back pain, spinal column, Houston, Beaumont, Baytown, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Pearland, Sealy, Spring, Port Arthur, Conroe, Kingwood, Humble, Tomball, Galveston

spinal discs, spinal nerves, back pain, spinal column, Houston, Beaumont, Baytown, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Pearland, Sealy, Spring, Port Arthur, Conroe, Kingwood, Humble, Tomball, Galveston

Aging patients also need to account for the possible effects of osteoporosis (low bone density) on the spine. Poor nutrition, smoking (nicotine, a chemical in cigarettes, is toxic to bone-generating cells), and a lack of physical activity can all decrease bone mass. This in turn increases the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures. Fractures are especially dangerous within the spinal column, as shards of collapsed vertebrae or spinal discs may pierce the spinal canal and lacerate spinal nerves, putting the patient at risk for serious long-term health complications. Also, the fractures may occur so slowly that many patients may not notice any sudden changes in their back pain levels.

spinal discs, spinal nerves, back pain, spinal column, Houston, Beaumont, Baytown, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Pearland, Sealy, Spring, Port Arthur, Conroe, Kingwood, Humble, Tomball, Galveston

spinal discs, spinal nerves, back pain, spinal column, Houston, Beaumont, Baytown, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Pearland, Sealy, Spring, Port Arthur, Conroe, Kingwood, Humble, Tomball, Galveston

Even with all of these potentially serious problems, however, there are still steps you can take at home to keep your spinal column healthy as you age. Proper weight management will help reduce stress on the facet joints and spinal discs. Healthy dieting and nutritional supplements will help keep bone density at optimal levels. Physical therapy (particularly a regimen full of core-strengthening exercises) and chiropractic treatment by a chiropractor will develop muscles in the torso and along the spinal column. Stronger core muscles lessens the load from compromised spinal discs and helps patients mediate their back pain levels.

Physician experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston, TX, have significant experience and expertise in working with patients who are recovering from minor or major spine surgery.  They understand that the beginning of the healing process starts in the OR, but the remainder continues well after the surgery is finished.

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), Tomball and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin

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

…….  281-713-6296

 

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

 

…….  KBNI VIDEO

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Proper Lifting Techniques for Your Spine review by KBNI Houston, Beaumont, Port Arthur, Katy Sugarland, Woodlands, TMC

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Proper Lifting Techniques for Your Spine

 

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

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

Simply put, many members of the public do not know how to lift while protecting their backs. Improper lifting techniques are one of the most common reasons for damage to the spinal column, including slipped spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae), torn muscles, compressed spinal nerves and chronic low back pain. When lifting, be sure to stay balanced and hold the weight close to your body. Weight held far away from the body while lifting multiplies the pressure placed on the spinal discs and muscles and can result in extremely sharp back pain. Also, make an effort to reduce torsional (twisting) movement while lifting. When you twist your back with significant weight in your arms / hands, you place a much higher weight on each side of the spine in isolation as you twist. This increases the likelihood of compressed spinal nerves as well as the chances for injury.

 

When lifting, engage your hips, legs, feet, and gluteus maximus muscles (buttocks). Keep the weight close to your body, and don’t waste energy twisting: have a destination in mind before you lift the object. If you have a history of back pain, be sure to discuss your potential lifting limits with your physician prior to undertaking a project. If degeneration in your spinal discs has compromised the integrity of your spinal column, you may have to limit yourself and make multiple trips even for relatively light projects (e.g. groceries).

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

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

 

To supplement proper lifting techniques, talk to your doctor about physical therapy exercises you may be able to do at home. Physical therapy for the spine is typically focused on developing strong core muscles in the torso and along the spinal column. When strengthened, these muscles will assist the spinal discs, muscles, joints, and ligaments in managing the body’s weight distribution during routine movement. Keep in mind that your pain levels will likely fluctuate widely during physical therapy depending on the muscles engaged. Continue checking in with your physician to adjust your exercise regimen as needed. In the meantime, mediate your pain levels with over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

 

back pain, spinal discs, proper lifting techniques, physical therapy, Houston

back pain, spinal discs, proper lifting techniques, physical therapy, Houston

 

If, despite physical therapy and pain medication, you still cannot complete routine daily tasks without extreme back pain, back surgery may be necessary. A variety of procedures (such as spinal fusion, which fuses vertebrae together to combat spinal disc-related nerve pain) can be used to restore stability to the spinal column, reduce long-term pain levels, and ultimately maintain mobility as we age.

 

The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, 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

 

back pain, spinal discs, proper lifting techniques, physical therapy, Houston

back pain, spinal discs, proper lifting techniques, physical therapy, Houston

 

Keywords: back pain, spinal discs, proper lifting techniques, physical therapy, Houston,

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

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Cervical Disc Replacement, Houston, Katy, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas

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CERVICAL DISC REPLACEMENT

cervical disc, spinal disc, pain levels, neck pain, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble

cervical disc, spinal disc, pain levels, neck pain, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble

The spinal discs (shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) help us manage the shocks and stresses of daily movement. Our spines are heavily involved in most kinds of motion (sitting, standing, bending, lifting, twisting, etc.). As such, the facet joints that link our vertebrae as well as the spinal discs between them need to be extremely durable and operate with low back and neck pain levels during normal motion. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Spinal structural deformities, trauma, heavy lifting, and inactivity can all play their part in compromising parts of the spinal column. The natural aging process compounds these factors due to the fact that spinal discs naturally degenerate over time. Spinal and cervical discs become thinner, harder, and less pliable as we age, and as a result they are far less capable of managing the stresses of daily life. We are also more likely to experience back and neck pain as a result of these changes.

All of these problems may create problems in the cervical discs in our necks. Since the neck is routinely engaged in movement, compromised cervical discs can severely affect mobility by causing pain during routine motion. Fortunately, there are a variety of strategies patients can use to mediate pain levels. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help mediate pain levels while restoring enough mobility for patients to explore other treatment options. Physical therapy focuses on developing muscles along the spinal column and surrounding the neck to offer support to cervical discs and relieve some of the weight they would otherwise have to bear during routine movement.

For more serious cases, such as severe structural deformity, trauma, or extreme neck pain not resolved by more conservative treatments, cervical disc replacement or cervical fusion may be the best option, depending upon the specific findings, recommendations of the surgeon, and desires of the patient. Since this surgery may be both serious and financially costly, physicians typically do not recommend it unless the compromised cervical disc is threatening other functions in the body (causing a loss of sensation, impinging on nearby spinal nerves, causing muscle weakness, etc.). Bone spurs and compromised cervical discs are the most common causes and physicians operate primarily to maintain the patient’s long-term health, as opposed to simply seeking to reduce pain levels.  Of course, indications for surgery may vary from patient to patient.

Recovery for cervical disc replacement, like many types of spinal surgery, can be brief to more prolonged . Rest, a healthy diet, and regimens of physical therapy are necessary to re-develop damaged muscles and relieve some of the pressure on cervical discs. Your physician will likely order several checkups to maintain a sense of your progress and to readjust your course of treatment as needed.

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.

Keywords: cervical disc, spinal disc, pain levels, neck pain, 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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Lower Back Pain, Neck Pain and Disc Myths by by KBNI Houston, Katy, Spring, Kingwood, Conroe, Woodlands, Sugarland, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center TMC

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Lower Back Pain, Neck Pain and Disc Myths, Houston

lower back pain, neck pain, disc, Houston

lower back pain, neck pain, disc, Houston

Lower back pain and neck pain are incredibly common afflictions in the modern workplace, but many members of the public entertain harmful myths about how to treat them. For example, a large portion of the public believes that rest is the most effective way to treat chronic lower back pain or neck pain. While rest is definitely a component of the solution, long periods of sedentary activity can actually lengthen recovery time and reduce long-term mobility. Most mild to moderate lower back pain and neck pain is more effectively mediated by exercise.

lower back pain, neck pain, disc, Houston

lower back pain, neck pain, disc, Houston

Part of the rest myth may stem from yet another myth perpetuated about the spine: that it is weak or somehow fragile. In truth, the spine is an incredibly strong, durable part of the body that hosts a complicated system of muscles, ligaments, bones, and spinal disc (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae). Rather than be compromised by exercise, the spine thrives on it. We need regular cardiovascular exercise, stretching, and strength conditioning in order to optimally maintain our spinal column as we age, given that we undergo a number of natural degenerative processes as we grow older. The cartilage on the ends of our facet joints (the joints that link our vertebrae and allow for the articulation of the spinal column) naturally degrades in quality, and this process is accelerated by extra weight and lack of exercise. Our spinal disc become thinner, harder, drier, and less capable of bearing stress during our routine movements. Both of these changes contribute to an increased incidence of compressed spinal nerves, which can cause severe lower back pain and compromise mobility.

lower back pain, neck pain, 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

lower back pain, neck pain, 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

Due to these natural degenerative processes, many people may feel that a decline in their mobility is inevitable and that severe lower back pain and neck pain must correlate with severe structural damage in the spinal column. Fortunately, chronic lower back pain and neck pain most often does not necessarily mean that a patient’s spine is severely damaged. Some patients may have relatively little damage within the spinal column but still suffer from debilitating pain because of higher sensitivity to pressure placed on the spinal nerve roots. For example, if the tough exterior of a spinal disc wears to the point where a bit of the soft inner material of the disc protrudes through a hole in the exterior (hernia), patients will have a wide variety of responses based on individual pain tolerance as well as sensitivity of the spinal nerves themselves. Seek a full physical examination from a medical profession to confirm the source of your back pain and begin an effective course of treatment.

Physicians at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI), located in Houston, TX, specialize in treating patients with lower back pain and neck pain.  The majority of patients can be treated, and achieve significant improvement in their lower back pain and neck pain, without the need of an operation.  When surgery on the disc or spine is needed, neurosurgeons at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute offer the most current and advanced techniques in minimally invasive spine surgery.

lower back pain, neck pain, 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

lower back pain, neck pain, 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

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: lower back pain, neck pain, 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

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Foraminotomy vs Laminectomy vs Discectomy by KBNI Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring, Seal, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Port Arthur

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foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring

foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring

Foraminotomy vs Laminectomy vs Discectomy Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Sugarland, Spring

A foraminotomy is a surgical procedure designed to lower pressure within the spinal canal by enlarging the passageway through which a spinal nerve root branches from the spinal canal. A laminectomy is a procedure to remove a greater portion of the bone (lamina) covering the roof of the spinal canal.  A discectomy is a procedure to remove a portion of a herniated disc in the spine, which is bulging and pushing on a nerve. Understanding spine anatomy is important to understanding the difference between the different procedures to relieve pain.  The sensitive spinal nerve roots are responsible for transmitting signals for voluntary muscle control as well as relaying sensory information for most of the rest of the body. The spinal discs (shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) give the spinal nerve roots enough room to exit the spinal canal. Sometimes, however, impact trauma, daily stress on the spinal discs, bone growths, or tumors may create an obstruction for the spinal nerve roots. Patients may experience extreme low back pain and / or decreased mobility if the pathways for the spinal nerve roots are compromised, or if the nerves themselves become compressed due to trauma and disk degeneration.  A foraminotomy focuses more on removing a smaller portion of bone where the nerve root leaves the spinal canal.  The opening in the spine through which the nerve root leaves is known as the neural foramen, and opening of this area is thus known as a foraminotomy.  A laminectomy is a more extensive removal of a greater portion of bone covering the spinal canal.  Of note, the neural foramen is an opening created by a roof of the superior articular facet of the vertebral body below, and the inferior articular facet of the vertebral body above.  A discectomy is performed by making an opening in the lamina, in order for the spine surgeon to gain access to the disc space, where the herniated or bulging disc is situated, in order to perform a discectomy, free up the nerve root, and alleviate the pain resulting from nerve compression.

foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring

foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Memorial City, Sugarland, Texas Medical Center, Spring

There are several different spinal conditions that may prompt a physician to consider a foraminotomy. Degenerative disc disease, a condition in which the natural degeneration of spinal discs is accelerated by other factors, is a possible cause. Herniated (displaced or ruptured) spinal discs, bone spurs, spondylosis / spinal stenosis are all also conditions that may necessitate larger passageways for spinal nerve roots. When there is a more diffuse narrowing of the spinal canal, as is the case with spinal stenosis, a foraminotomy may not be sufficient to decompress the nerves, and a laminectomy may be required.  When the source of compression is located centrall within the spinal canal, and is caused by a focal disc bulge or herniation, rather than a diffuse central canal compression, then a discectomy may be a good option.  In summary,  back surgeries that may be effective for relieving pressure on the spinal nerves are foraminotomies, laminotomies and discectomies, as well as laminectomies.

foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston

foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston

Since back surgery is often a costly procedure with a lengthy period of post-operative care, patients are advised to seek thorough medical consultation prior to any procedure that may have implications for the spinal canal. If patients are experiencing muscle weakness, sharp or shooting pains down one or both legs, numbness in the extremities, or if their low back pain is not resolved by core strengthening exercises and weight management, physicians will typically recommend a series of spinal imaging tests. X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and CT scans may all be used to determine whether the integrity of the spinal canal is at risk. Post-imaging, physicians will be much better equipped to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe a course of treatment. Post-operative care will normally include physical therapy that focuses on core strengthening exercise, building the muscles in the torso to assist in managing the stresses of everyday movement.

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, arm and leg 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.  The physicians have expertise on spine surgery including foraminotomy and laminectomy and discectomy.  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

www.SpinePain.com

www.SpineSurgery.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

 

foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, Houston

Keywords: foraminotomy, laminectomy, discectomy, 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

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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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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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Herniated Disc, Lumbar Disc, Cervical Disc Treatment in Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland

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Herniated Disc, Lumbar Disc, Cervical Disc Treatment in Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland

Herniated Disc, Lumbar Disc, Cervical Disc Treatment in Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland

VIDEO of PRACTICE PHILOSOPHY KRAUS BACK AND NECK INSTITUTE

Herniated disc of the lumbar or cervical spine is a very common disorder affecting millions of Americans.  The treatment can often consist of conservative measures, including physical therapy, epidural steroid injections (ESI), exercise, chiropractic, oral pain medicines, non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) or transdermal compounded pain medications.

When needed, surgery, including minimally invasive surgical approaches, can be used.

Appropriate imaging studies can help to determine the source of the pain, after a thorough history and physical examination is performed.

Expert doctors at the Kraus Back and Neck Instiute (KBNI) in Houston, believe that the majority of patients can be treated without the need for surgery.  When surgery is needed, the most advanced techniques in minimally invasive surgery are available.

The KBNI in Houston provides for a full spectrum of treatment of herniated disc of the lumbar and cervical spine, including conservative and surgical methods of treatment.

The KBNI serves patients in the Houston and surrounding areas of Katy, Woodlands and Sugarland.

To arrange an appointment, patients can

1)      Schedule online at www.SpineHealth.com

2)       Call 281-713-6296 to schedule

Herniated Disc, Lumbar Disc, Cervical Disc Treatment in Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland

Herniated Disc, Lumbar Disc, Cervical Disc Treatment in Houston, Katy, Woodlands, Sugarland

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Herniated Disc Injury (Motor Vehicle Injury, Truck Injury) : Review of Treatment in Houston Katy Woodlands Spring Humble Baytown Beaumont Port Arthur

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                         Herniated Disc Injury (Motor Vehicle Injury, Truck Injury)

 

 

herniated disc, physical therapy, back pain, spinal nerve, Houston, Galleria, Katy, the Woodlands, Spring, Humble, Memorial City, motor vehicle injury, truck injury

herniated disc, physical therapy, back pain, spinal nerve, Houston, Galleria, Katy, the Woodlands, Spring, Humble, Memorial City, motor vehicle injury, truck injury

Spinal discs are the pads between each vertebra of the spinal column. They act as shock absorbers for the body, compensating for the stresses of everyday movement: running, jumping, sitting, standing, walking, etc. Each disc has a tough, durable exterior but is filled with a soft, jelly-like material. Herniated discs occur when stress (usually from natural wear and tear as we age, but occasionally from improper lifting or other kinds of physical trauma) (motor vehicle injury, truck injury) pushes some of the softer material through a rupture in the exterior portion of the disc. This can aggravate or compress nearby spinal nerves, causing extreme pain. Depending on the seriousness of the spinal nerve compression, back pain may be accompanied by numbness, muscle weakness, tingling, and a shooting or radiating pain in any of the extremities. If any of these symptoms accompany a patient’s back pain, immediate medical consultation is advised. Continual compression of spinal nerves can lead to permanent damage, which may include a loss of sensation.  Experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute in Houston, TX, have significant experience treating thousands of patients suffering from the low back pain, leg pain and sciatica of herniated discs in the lumbar spine.  Dr. Gary Kraus and Dr. Masaki Oishi take a very conservative approach to treating patients suffering from these disorders, and in most cases find that patients can be effectively treated, with significant pain reduction, without the need of an operation.  Dr Kraus and Dr Oishi have extensive experience taking care of patients who have been in automobile injuries, truck injuries, or suffered other types of motor vehicle injuries.

Physical therapy in combination with anti-inflammatories and rest may significantly reduce the back pain associated with a herniated disc. A licensed medical professional will, through a specialized regimen of physical therapy, show patients new techniques that minimize the possibility of re-injury. In particular, torsional or lateral movement while lifting should be minimized, as these methods can significantly raise pressure within the spinal column, leading to an increased likelihood of a herniated disc.

For seriously herniated discs, surgical procedures may be necessary. Spinal fusion, a procedure in which the vertebrae are fused together, can eliminate the pain caused by worn intervertebral discs. Artificial discs are also an option—these discs can now match a natural disc in durability. Surgery should be considered only as a last resort, however. The costliness and lengthy rehabilitation periods during post-operative care for most spinal surgeries mean that physicians typically recommend surgery only after physical therapy, healthy dieting, exercise, and weight management have failed to improve a patient’s quality of life or lower levels of back pain.

The Kraus Back and Neck Institute in Houston, TX, treats and will review patients from Houston, Katy, Inner Loop, Memorial City, Galleria, the Woodlands, Sugar Land, Humble and Spring.  Many patients may have been in automobile injuries or truck injuries.  Patients are welcome to call the Kraus Back and Neck Institute.  No films or other studies are needed.  Appropriate imaging studies and other tests may be ordered if indicated and needed.

http://www.spinepain.com/surgical-procedures-kraus-back-neck-institute.html

http://www.neckpain.com/spinal-surgery-kraus-back-neck-institute.html

http://www.surgeryspine.com/lower-back-lumbar-surgery-kraus-neck-institute.html

Keywords: herniated disc, physical therapy, back pain, spinal nerve, Houston, Galleria, Katy, the Woodlands, Spring, Humble, Memorial City, motor vehicle injury, truck injury

herniated disc, physical therapy, back pain, spinal nerve, Houston, Galleria, Katy, the Woodlands, Spring, Humble, Memorial City, motor vehicle injury, truck injury

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