Posts Tagged spinal nerves
Muscle Weakness and Spinal Nerves review KBNI Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown
Posted by admin in anti-inflammatory, arthritis, back injury prevention, back pain, baytown, beaumont, chiropractic, chiropractor, core strengthening exercise, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, houston, katy, low back pain, mri, neck pain, nerve compression, nerve damage, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, NSAID, nutritional supplements, Pearland, physical therapy, spinal discs, spinal nerves, spine health, Tomball, Uncategorized, woodlands on August 21, 2015
Muscle Weakness and Spinal Nerve
spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain
Our spinal nerves branch out from the spinal cord and allow us to feel sensation in many parts of the body. The nerves transmit signals of heat, cold, pain, and general sensation, meaning that without their unimpeded operation, patients experience a variety of negative symptoms, from muscle weakness to paralysis. Our spinal nerves are also intertwined with our vertebrae (the bones in the spinal column). The spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) help provide a means for the spine to articulate as well as keeping vertebrae from compressing nearby spinal nerves. Over time, however, the spinal discs naturally degenerate, becoming harder, thinner, and less pliable as we grow older. As spinal discs break down, the distance between our vertebrae shrinks, placing patients at an elevated risk for compressed spinal nerves and extreme back pain.
spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain
On most occasions, rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen will be enough to mediate back pain and restore mobility long enough for patients to pursue other avenues of treatment. Sometimes, though, structural problems in the back may lead to more serious complications. If back pain patients at any time experience muscle weakness or numbness in the extremities, seek medical attention immediately. This could be an indication of continually compressed spinal nerves. Over time, repeated compression can damage the nerves and lead to a loss of sensation and / or mobility.
spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain, Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown
If compression of spinal nerves is suspected to be the culprit and the physical examination is inconclusive, doctors will order imaging tests (x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging) in order to observe the problem area in greater detail. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan) provides excellent clarity of the body’s soft tissues, allowing physicians to judge whether spinal nerves may be at risk during routine activity.
spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain, Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown
If spinal nerve compression forms the root of a patient’s back problem, there are several steps he or she can take from home that will increase their long-term mobility. First, consult your physician regarding a physical therapy or chiropractic regimen designed to build core strength along your spinal column and in the abdomen. Strong core muscles will help relieve pressure from spinal discs and reduce the possibility of compressed spinal nerves in the future. Also, consider your present weight and activity level: are you doing everything you can to minimize back pain? Unhealthy weight gain puts more pressure on every part of the spinal column, including spinal discs and facet joints (the joints that link our vertebrae. By keeping your weight down and getting regular exercise, patients can optimize their chances for maintaining mobility as they age.
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Tomball and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin
If you have SUFFERED AN INJURY, you can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at
……. 281-713-6296
……. Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to schedule an appointment online
……. KBNI VIDEO
Keywords: spinal discs, spinal nerves, muscle weakness, back pain, Houston, Pearland, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown
What is Disc Degeneration in the Context of the Spine? KBNI Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown
Posted by admin in anti-inflammatory, arthritis, back pain, baytown, beaumont, chiropractic, chiropractor, core strengthening exercise, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, exercise, facet joint, houston, low back pain, nerve compression, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, NSAID, osteoarthritis, pain, Pearland, strengthening, Tomball, woodlands on August 19, 2015
What is Disc Degeneration in the Context of the Spine?
spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration
Degenerative disc disease (disc degeneration) has proven to be a frightening diagnosis for many members of the public. Our spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) are essential for a high quality of life. They cushion the load-bearing stress on the spinal column and along with the facet joints (the joints between our vertebrae) spinal discs help allow for the spinal column’s articulation during routine motion.
Over time, however, the spinal discs naturally degenerate (degenerative disc diseease) , becoming thinner, harder, drier, and less capable of absorbing shock. This means that vertebrae in the spinal column move closer together, placing nearby spinal nerves at a higher risk for compression. Degenerated spinal discs also directly impact a back pain patient’s mobility, given that the discs act somewhat like the shocks and suspension on an automobile a person with compromised discs is going to move more slowly and have a smaller range of motion.
spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration
Problems also surface when back pain patients are diagnosed with degenerative disc disease. Patients may be frightened at the condition getting worse to the point of paralysis or greatly decreased mobility. While advanced damage in your spinal discs is indeed cause for concern, there are many steps patients can take to mediate back pain and improve their quality of life as they age. First, don’t give up simply because of your diagnosis. Disc degeneration is a natural process. Degenerative disc disease (disc degeneration) simply means your degeneration has progressed more quickly than is the norm.
spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown
Additionally, there are many steps patients can take at home to make sure they retain an acceptable range of motion and low-to-moderate pain levels. First, consider using over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to mediate back pain when it reaches acute levels. Pain medication will provide temporary relief and restore mobility by reducing inflammation (anti-inflammatory effects) along the spinal column (which, in a person with advanced degeneration of their spinal discs, will also help in relieving pressure on spinal nerves). A physical therapy or chiropractic regimen emphasizing core-strengthening exercises is also essential. Strong muscles throughout the torso and along the spinal column will relieve pressure from compromised spinal discs and help reduce the possibility for compressing spinal nerves. Patients also have the advantage of continuing these physical therapy / chiropractic exercises at home for an indefinite period of time, reducing medical costs and helping to maintain their mobility while reducing the possibility of further damage to the spinal discs themselves. Finally, physical therapy is an essential component in a healthy lifestyle that keeps weight at optimum levels, reducing the load-bearing stress on spinal discs and facet joints. Maintaining a healthy weight will further reduce the possibility of additional damage, while an unhealthy weight will increase the potential for nerve damage.
spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown
Physicians at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute treat patients with degenerative disc disease (disc degeneration). The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Tomball and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin. In most cases, non-surgical treatments are available, reserving surgery for those patients in whom conservative treatments do not provide sufficient pain relief.
If you have SUFFERED AN INJURY, you can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at
……. 281-713-6296
……. Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to schedule an appointment online
……. KBNI VIDEO
Keywords: spinal discs, back pain, spinal nerves, physical therapy, degenerative disc disease, disc degeneration, Houston, Memorial City, Woodlands, Sugarland, Pearland, Katy, Spring, Conroe, Beaumont, Baytown
Autoimmune Disorders that Affect the Spine review by KBNI Houston, Sugarland, Katy, Woodlands, Baytown, Beaumont, Spring, Pearland
Posted by admin in back pain, baytown, beaumont, core strengthening exercise, facet joint, houston, katy, nerve compression, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, NSAID, osteoarthritis, Pearland, rheumatoid arthritis, spinal nerves, strengthening, sugarland, Tomball, woodlands on August 17, 2015
Autoimmune Disorders that Affect the Spine
autoimmune disorder, back pain, spinal nerves, rheumatoid arthritis, non steroidal anti-inflammatory, NSAID
An autoimmune disorder is any condition which causes your immune system (which normally guards us against invasive pathogens and harmful bacteria) to instead attack healthy, normal tissue. Some common autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, in which joints all over the body (including facet joints in the spine) are attacked, causing back pain and inflammation as well as permanent decreases to mobility. Type I diabetes is another example: the body’s ability to produce insulin, a chemical that regulates blood sugar levels, is inhibited by the body’s immune system.
autoimmune disorder, back pain, spinal nerves, rheumatoid arthritis, non steroidal anti-inflammatory, NSAID
Within the context of the spinal column, autoimmune disorders can be extremely detrimental to long-term patient mobility and pose a serious threat to general quality of life. Rheumatoid arthritis, as well as other types of arthritis, can inflame the facet joints (the joints that allow for the articulation of the spine), which inhibits even routine movements like sitting, standing, and walking. Rheumatoid arthritis also increases a patient’s risk for compressing nearby spinal nerves and causing extreme back pain. Intertwined with our vertebrae, our spinal nerves are responsible for transferring sensation messages to and from our brain to much of the rest of the body. The severe inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis reduces the available room for spinal nerves to operate unimpeded, increasing the likelihood they will be compressed by nearby vertebrae during routine movement.
autoimmune disorder, back pain, spinal nerves, rheumatoid arthritis, non steroidal anti-inflammatory, NSAID, Houston, Sugarland, Katy, Woodlands, Baytown, Beaumont, Spring
While many autoimmune disorders cannot presently be cured, doctors are hard at work trying to discover the links that cause our immune systems to compromise their normal function and damage healthy tissue. It is thought that many autoimmune disorders may be closely related via their root trigger mechanism. If an underlying chemical, hormonal, or genetic change can be identified, doctors can use this information to correct the defects in patients’ immune systems, in effect “re-programming” them to recognize native healthy tissue for what it is.
While that day may yet be far in the future, patients still have options available to improve their quality of life. Over-the-counter, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen help reduce inflammation in the spinal column, decreasing the likelihood of compressed spinal nerves and mediating pain levels. Physicians will also generally recommend a physical therapy regimen emphasizing core-strengthening exercises to develop muscles along the spinal column. Strong muscles throughout the torso will help mediate back pain as well as relieving load-bearing stress from compromised spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) as well as decreasing the likelihood of compressing nearby spinal nerves.
autoimmune disorder, back pain, spinal nerves, rheumatoid arthritis, non steroidal anti-inflammatory, NSAID, Houston, Sugarland, Katy, Woodlands, Baytown, Beaumont, Spring
The Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston TX cares for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Tomball and other Texas TX cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Austin
If you have SUFFERED AN INJURY, you can contact the Kraus Back and Neck Institute at
……. 281-713-6296
……. Or visit www.SpineHealth.com to schedule an appointment online
……. KBNI VIDEO
Keywords: autoimmune disorder, back pain, spinal nerves, rheumatoid arthritis, non steroidal anti-inflammatory, NSAID, Houston, Sugarland, Katy, Woodlands, Baytown, Beaumont, Spring, Pearland
How the Spine Develops as We Age review KBNI Houston, Beaumont, Baytown, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Pearland
Posted by admin in back pain, baytown, beaumont, chiropractic, chiropractor, compression fracture, core strengthening exercise, diet, disc degeneration, facet joint, fracture, healthy diet, herniated disc, houston, katy, lifting techniques, low back pain, nerve compression, nutrition, nutritional supplements, pain, Pearland, physical therapy, smoking, spinal nerves, strengthening, sugarland, Tomball, woodlands on June 6, 2015
How the Spine Develops as We Age
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
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
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
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
Recovering from Spinal Stenosis, Lumbar Stenosis, Cervical Stenosis review by KBNI serving Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland
Posted by admin in baytown, beaumont, cervical laminectomy, cervical stenosis, houston, laminectomy, lumbar laminectomy, lumbar stenosis, mri, neurosurgeon, neurosurgery, spinal stenosis, spine surgeon, spine surgery, sugarland, woodlands on March 29, 2015
Recovering from Spinal Stenosis, Lumbar Stenosis, Cervical Stenosis
spinal stenosis, cervical stenosis, cervical laminectomy, lumbar stenosis, lumbar laminectomy, back pain, spinal canal, spinal nerves, Houston
Spinal stenosis results from the reduction (narrowing) of the open spaces within the spinal column. Due to the fact that spinal nerves run most of the length of the spine through our spinal canal, a narrowing at any point can increase the pressure on spinal nerves during everyday movement. As one might expect, this narrowing may produce extreme back pain via compression of the spinal nerves. Other symptoms of spinal stenosis include numbness in the legs or arms, weakness in the legs or arms, and problems with bladder or bowel function.
spinal stenosis, cervical stenosis, cervical laminectomy, lumbar stenosis, lumbar laminectomy, back pain, spinal canal, spinal nerves, Houston
Generally, age-related degeneration is responsible for the onset of spinal stenosis in most patients. As we age, repeated movement of the articulated facet joints of the spinal column breaks down the cartilage on the ends of our facet joints (the joints that link our vertebrae together). Our spinal discs (the shock-absorbing pads between our vertebrae) also become thinner, harder, and less capable of bearing the shocks of everyday movement. This natural degeneration reduces the spaces between the vertebrae, increasing the likelihood of compressed spinal nerves. In some patients, the reduction in open space may be severe enough to threaten the integrity of the spinal cord. Younger people may also develop spinal stenosis, but most of these patients’ spinal columns have been compromised by a disease that affects muscle and bone tissue.
spinal stenosis, cervical stenosis, cervical laminectomy, lumbar stenosis, lumbar laminectomy, back pain, spinal canal, spinal nerves, Houston
Treatment and recovery options for spinal stenosis patients vary depending on the severity of the narrowing as well as its location. In most cases, the narrowing occurs either in the neck or the lower back. Imaging tests (x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging MRI) will likely be used to pinpoint the spinal nerves that are at risk, as well as to ascertain that the patient’s back pain and other symptoms are the result of an actual narrowing of the spinal canal, as opposed to other natural aging processes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is particularly useful here due to the fact that it allows physicians to view soft tissue (like spinal nerves) in great detail. Computerized tomography (CT) myelograms may also be used, as these procedures combine multiple x-rays into one complete view of the size and shape of the spinal canal.
spinal stenosis, cervical stenosis, cervical laminectomy, lumbar stenosis, lumbar laminectomy, back pain, spinal canal, spinal nerves, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
For treatment, physicians will likely recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to mediate back pain. Corticosteroid injections may also be used to prevent inflammation around compromised spinal disks or compressed spinal nerves. Houston spine pain treatments for more severe spinal stenosis will likely require surgery to increase space within the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves. Back surgery neurosurgery is typically only recommended, however, if conservative treatments like pain medication and physical therapy have failed to adequately address the problem.
When spinal stenosis is present in the lumbar spine (lumbar stenosis), patients may experience pain in the lower extremities, which is worse when standing, and improved when sitting. In rare cases, there may be a loss of bowel or bladder control. When the stenosis is rapid in onset, as may be caused by a severe traumatic disc herniation, or by a fracture, then loss of bowel or bladder control may be more common. When the spinal stenosis is more gradual in onset, as is the case with degenerative changes, then loss of bowel or bladder control is much less common.
spinal stenosis, cervical stenosis, cervical laminectomy, lumbar stenosis, lumbar laminectomy, back pain, spinal canal, spinal nerves, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
When spinal stenosis is present in the cervical spine (cervical stenosis), the spinal cord may be compressed. This may not only lead to pain, but it may lead to paralysis, due to compression of the spinal cord. Pressure on the spinal cord may also create a condition known as myelopathy, in which there is a partial injury to the spinal cord, leading to progressive loss of control of the lower extremities, and possibly a loss of control of bowel and bladder function. The patient may also experience shocks traveling from the neck down the spine, which is known as a L’Hermitte sign. When myelopathy is present, due to cervical spinal stenosis and spinal cord compression in the cervical spine, the MRI scan of the cervical spinal cord will frequently show a high intensity signal, or a bright spot, in the cervical spinal cord. This represents a spinal injury, and may be incomplete, in which case the patient will have function of the lower extremities, or may be a complete spinal cord injury, in where the is no movement below the injury in the spinal cord.
Depending upon the nature of the stenosis, surgery may be performed to relieve the spinal stenosis. When surgery is undertaken to relieve lumbar stenosis, the procedure typically performed is known as a lumbar laminectomy, in which the lamina, or back of the lumbar spine, is removed. This generally has a good chance of success, at decompressing nerves in the lumbar spine often helps their improvement. When surgery is undertaken to relieve cervical spinal stenosis, a cervical laminectomy may be performed from a posterior approach, or an anterior fusion may be needed as well. Unlike lumbar laminectomy which generally had a good result, with improved lower extremity function, laminectomy to decompress the cervical spinal cord is generally not as successful. Removing the mechanical pressure placed on the cervical spinal cord generally helps to reduce the risk of further neurological deterioration, but it is difficult to predict whether there will be any improvement in neurological function. Patients may also experience brisk reflexes in the lower extremities, and may have, upon examination, a positive Babinski sign (flaring of the toes upon rubbing of the soles of the feet). It is important for the patient to know when to seek medical consultation, in order to prevent worsening neurological deterioration. A neurosurgeon or spine surgeon may need to perform neurosurgery in order to try to preserve function. A neurosurgeon is a surgeon who performs neurosurgery upon the brain and spine. A neurosurgeon typically has significant training in spine surgery. A spine surgeon may have had the neurosurgery training of a neurosurgeon, or they may be an orthopedic surgeon who has had fellowship training in spine surgery.
Physicians at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute have significant experience treating cervical spinal stenosis and lumbar spinal stenosis. They are well versed in the full spectrum of treatments, and know when to advise conservative measures, and when to recommend surgical intervention upon the spine.
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 stenosis, cervical stenosis, cervical laminectomy, lumbar stenosis, lumbar laminectomy, back pain, spinal canal, spinal nerves, Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sealy, Baytown, Pearland, Beaumont, Galleria, Tomball, Conroe, Humble, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Galveston, Memorial City, Texas Medical Center (TMC), Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin
Common Spinal Deformities, Spina Bifida review KBNI Houston, Woodlands, Sugarland, Katy, Memorial City, TMC
Posted by admin in back pain, back surgery, beaumont, houston, katy, low back pain, lumbar fusion, lumbar stenosis, spina bifida, spine health, sugarland, Uncategorized, woodlands on March 24, 2015
Common Spinal Deformities and Spina Bifida
chronic back pain, back surgery, spinal deformities, spina bifida, spinal nerves, Houston
Most chronic back pain is the result of lifestyle. Too much sedentary activity (e.g. sitting at a computer monitor for an extended period of time) causes elevated tension in muscles along the spinal column, gradually starving them of oxygen and increasing the chances of painful muscle spasms. At the other end of the spectrum, too much physical activity or improper lifting techniques can accelerate the natural degeneration of the spinal discs (shock-absorbing pads between the vertebrae) and other vital components of the spinal column, leading to increased pain levels.
chronic back pain, back surgery, spinal deformities, spina bifida, spinal nerves, Houston
In some cases, however, lifestyle is not the root cause of chronic back pain. There are many structural spinal deformities, often congenital, that do not respond well to conservative treatments like physical therapy or anti-inflammatory pain medication. Whereas pain levels from a compromised spinal disc may be reduced by a physical therapy regimen designed to relieve pressure by developing muscles along the spinal column, spinal deformities often drastically compromise the integrity of the spinal column’s structure.
Spina bifida involves an opening in the lamina, which are not fused, and may involve a protrusion of the spinal nerves outside of the spinal canal where they are normally housed. Depending on the location of the protrusion, spina bifida may place patients at a much higher risk for traumatic injuries to the spinal nerves. As these nerves provide sensation to other parts of the body, damage to them can result in a loss of sensation, severe chronic back pain, or even paralysis. Spina bifida is caused by a congenital developmental disorder, in which the embryonic neural tube does not completely close. Spina bifida most commonly occurs in the lumbar and sacral areas. Spina bifida generally falls into one of three types: 1) spina bifida occulta 2) spina bifida with meningocele, and 3) spina bifida with myelomeningocele. Spina bifida occulta is generally asymptomatic, and most people don’t even know they have it. The most symptomatic type of spina bifida is that associated with a myelomeningocele, in which the spinal cord protrudes through the opening in the spine. The spina bifida meningicele and myelomeningocele occur in 1 out of every 1000 births.
spinal deformities, spina bifida, spinal nerves, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble, Conroe, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Memorial City, Galveston
Other spinal deformities include scoliosis, which is a curvature of the spine that develops to varying degrees in patients. Most of the time its cause is unknown, but scoliosis may be triggered by muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy. Some patients may be able to navigate their daily routines without corrective back surgery, but many patients require it in order to restore some manner of normalcy to their motion. Severe curvature of the spine can be incredibly disabling, reducing mobility and causing extreme chronic back pain. With modern corrective back surgery, however, chances at a relatively normal life are good for most patients.
Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal can be dangerous if it occurs in the cervical spine (cervical stenosis) , and troubling with pain and weakness when it occurs in the lumbar spine (lumbar stenosis) , because it places vital spinal nerves at a higher risk for injury, especially compression, which often in turn causes chronic back pain and symptoms of pain, numbness and weakness to the lower extremities. Prolonged nerve compression can damage the spinal nerves, impeding long-term sensation and mobility. Corrective back surgery is sometimes needed to relieve pressure on the spinal canal and expand the space at its narrowest point to reduce the chances of injury.
spinal deformities, spina bifida, spinal nerves, Houston, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Sugarland, Sealy, Pearland, Baytown, Beaumont, Tomball, Galleria, Humble, Conroe, Kingwood, Port Arthur, Memorial City, Galveston
Physician experts at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute (KBNI) in Houston, TX, have significant experience in diagnosing and treating spinal disorders. 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: chronic back pain, back surgery, spinal deformities, spina bifida, spinal nerves, 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
Multiple Sclerosis and Neurological Conditions that Affect the Spine review by KBNI Houston, Katy, Sugarland, Woodlands, Kingwood, TMC Texas Medical Center
Posted by admin in baytown, beaumont, houston, katy, multiple sclerosis, sugarland, Uncategorized, woodlands on October 27, 2014
multiple sclerosis neurological disorder , houston, texas
Multiple Sclerosis and Neurological Conditions that Affect the Spine review by KBNI Houston
There are several serious neurological disorders that adversely affect the human spine. Perhaps the best-known of these is multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease in which the patient’s immune system is compromised and breaks down the myelin sheath that protects our nerves. This breakdown diminishes the brain’s ability to communicate with other areas of your body, including your spinal cord. Due to the fact that myelin sheaths are essential for normal nerve operation, multiple sclerosis can result in the actual destruction of the nerves themselves. At present, the disease has no cure.
multiple sclerosis neurological disorder , houston, texas
While certainly a serious neurological disorder, symptoms may vary widely from patient to patient depending on the severity to which the nerves are compromised. A confirmed multiple sclerosis diagnosis is often extremely difficult, given that these symptoms may disappear for months at a time, leaving doctors puzzled. Symptoms include slurred speech, fatigue, numbness or weakness in limbs, double vision, an unsteady gait, and partial or complete loss of vision. MS patients are also sometimes heat-sensitive, with differences in temperature triggering certain symptoms. Most patients experience partial or complete remission of symptoms in between episodes of the disease.
Doctors do not yet understand the cause of multiple sclerosis, or why the disease affects some patients more severely than others. What is known is that myelin sheaths (the fatty substance that acts as insulation for the nerves) help facilitate effective communication between the brain and the rest of the body. As these myelin sheaths are consumed, the body in effect “short-circuits,” with a number of negative consequences.
While multiple sclerosis can’t presently be cured, symptoms can be alleviated and managed to some degree, depending on their severity. Treatment focuses on reducing the disease’s progress while simultaneously helping patients deal with symptoms in their daily lives. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation that occurs during symptom episodes. This inflammation may compress spinal nerves, causing excruciating pain and decreasing mobility. A plasma exchange, a procedure that mechanically separates a portion of your blood cells from your blood plasma, may be performed if multiple sclerosis patients are not responding to other intravenous treatments.
There are also a wide variety of pharmaceutical drugs to treat multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders. Many of these drugs perform very specific functions (e.g. Fingolimod trapping immune cells in the body’s lymph nodes to reduce the frequency of MS attacks) and as such will need to be evaluated and approved on a case-by-case basis according to the patient’s needs and the doctor’s evaluation of MS’s progress. While the spinal nerves and other major nerve groups will likely not be spared manifestations of symptoms, these pharmaceutical drugs can give multiple sclerosis patients a higher quality of life and a better chance at more long-term mobility.
multiple sclerosis neurological disorder , houston, texas
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
Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation review by KBNI Houston, Sugarland, Woodlands, Katy, Spring, Kingwood, Humble, Memorial City, Tomball
Posted by admin in back injury prevention, back pain, back surgery, baytown, beaumont, chiropractic, chiropractor, chiropractor near me, discectomy, epidural steroid injection, ESI, herniated disc surgery, houston, katy, low back pain, lumbar, lumbar fusion, pain, physical therapy, spinal fusion, sugarland, woodlands on September 29, 2014
Spinal Nerve Compression: When to Seek Medical Consultation
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
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
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
Sciatica : Treatment in Houston
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Sciatica Treatment in Houston
Put simply, sciatica is nerve pain in one or both of the legs. More specifically, sciatica is the term given to pain caused when one of the spinal nerves which are responsible for sensation in the legs is compressed. Compressed spinal nerves may have several different root causes, including: herniated (slipped) disks, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or Piriformis syndrome. Since the causes can vary widely in seriousness, thorough medical consultation is advised to avoid misdiagnosis. It is crucial to discover the root cause of the nerve compression, since spinal nerves do not regenerate if sufficiently traumatized. The Kraus Back and Neck Institute in Houston, TX treats a very large number of patients suffering from sciatica, low back pain, leg pain, neck pain and upper extremity pain. Sciatica can be very effectively treated.
Normally, a complete physical exam will be enough to accurately diagnose sciatica. If a physician suspects alternate causes for nerve compression—such as a possible spinal fracture—imaging tests may be authorized. These can include X-rays to observe the integrity of the vertebrae, as well as magnetic resonance imaging tests to build images of the spine and surrounding tissues. Based on the results of the exam and the battery of imaging tests, physicians can formulate a diagnosis based on the severity of the compressed nerve.
Once sciatica has been diagnosed, there are several different possible courses of treatment depending on the severity of the nerve compression. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can help to reduce swelling around the damaged nerves. Once swelling decreases, patients often report less pain and increases in mobility. Muscle relaxants also aid in swelling reduction. As for physical therapy, a licensed medical professional can match a regimen to each patient’s specific injury. Stretching, walking, and rest may be employed to ensure that swelling decreases. It is vital that patients keep up with their exercises to reduce recurrence of nerve compression. Healthy dieting and weight management are also effective means to prevent sciatica.
In rare cases, more serious measures may need to be taken. Surgery, spinal injections (most often a cortisone anti-inflammatory), and other spinal procedures may be considered as needed. If patients are not responding well to traditional physical therapy, consider seeking a specialist for further treatment.
For more information, follow up with the Kraus Back and Neck Institute in Houston TX, experts in treating sciatica for patients in the Houston and surrounding areas, as well as across the United States.
sciatica treatment at the Kraus Back and Neck Institute, Houston TX
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