Spine

Spinal Stenosis: Treatment Options

Stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can compress the spinal cord and nerves. It can produce symptoms that range from radiating pain, numbness, and weakness to gait problems, depending on the location of the narrowing. Cervical stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck region, while lumbar… 

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Most Common Spinal Disorders

There are many issues that can affect the spine, causing back pain and a reduced ability to move the back very well. Spinal disorders may result from an injury, wear, and tear, or a structural deformity. Let’s talk about some of the most common problems that can affect the spine, and where you can go… 

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What Causes Chronic Spinal Pain?

Spinal pain is often felt in the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) region. Pain symptoms include stiffness, limited range of motion, weakness, and muscle spasms. Pain can turn chronic, especially without proper treatment. Pain can also radiate into the upper and lower extremities. For whatever reason, chronic spinal pain can keep you from your… 

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Different Types of Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine: instead of falling into normal alignment, the vertebrae make an S- or C-shaped curve. Over time, the curve may become more prominent and eventually cause health problems. There are four types of scoliosis: idiopathic, neuromuscular, degenerative, and congenital scoliosis. While these types have… 

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Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition that causes a sideways curvature of the spine and mostly occurs during the growth spurt, a period before puberty when your child’s height rapidly increases. If you think your child may have scoliosis, you will greatly benefit from the expertise of Dr. Bradley Ahlgren of Ahlgren Spine Orthopaedic Surgery. He is… 

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Different Types of Scoliosis Treatment Options

Your spine has a natural curve. However, genetics, a tumor, a spinal infection, an injury, or a birth defect can cause an abnormal curvature of the spine known as scoliosis. When it’s mild, it doesn’t require treatment and can be fairly unnoticeable. However, in more serious cases, Dr. Ahlgren or a member of his team… 

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Chronic Spinal Pain vs. Other Types of Back Pain

The World Health Organization says back pain is one of the most common medical conditions that many people suffer from worldwide. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, activity level, and lifestyle. However, not all back pain is the same, and there are plenty of causes. Let’s take a look at the difference between chronic… 

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What to Expect from Scoliosis Treatments

Scoliosis is a complex disorder in which the spine forms an unusual curve, often in a somewhat “S” shape or a “C” shape. It can occur in both children and adults, but it is usually discovered in childhood. Classic scoliosis characteristics and symptoms include the following:   Curved spine Uneven shoulders, hips, and/or waist Back… 

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Spinal & Cervical Fusion Surgery: Purpose, Procedure, Risks

Have you been experiencing constant, chronic pain in your neck or back? This pain may be an indication of a sprain, strain, or other soft tissue injury in your spine. Many times, minor injuries usually go away with rest and other conservative measures. However, if the problem is structural, surgery may be necessary to improve… 

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Degenerative Spine Conditions

As your body ages, it will undergo many changes. For example, your skin may become dry and lose elasticity, your arteries and blood vessels may begin to stiffen, your muscles may lose strength, and your bones may shrink in density. The spine is composed of vertebrae and spinal discs, and may also degenerate as part… 

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