Spinal fusion is a procedure that involves an orthopedic surgeon placing a bone graft within the spaces between the small bones in the spine (vertebrae) and using screws, metal plates, and rods to hold them together. The goal is to enable the bones to heal into one solid unit and ultimately eliminate the movement between…
Spinal Pain
What to Know About Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
Anywhere from 51 to 84 percent of American adults experience back pain. Many are senior women; however, anyone with injury to the spine, a degenerative condition (arthritis), an inherited deformity, or physical stressors on the job is prone to back discomfort. Spinal stenosis, herniated discs, scoliosis, and fractures are other examples. When such conditions and…
What Is a Common Problem for Patients with Spinal Stenosis and How Can Treatment Help?
Spinal stenosis is when the open areas of the vertebrae (spinal bones), which together house the spinal cord, become narrow. This narrowing naturally causes inward pressure on the spinal cord, which comprises nerves – and this nerve impingement can cause pain and other uncomfortable symptoms. Anyone can develop spinal stenosis. In fact, young children can…
Is Your Job Causing Spinal Pain?
Spinal pain, which can involve back pain and/or neck pain, may be caused by everything from trauma to inactivity to repetitive-motion injury. People who work in the fields of medicine, construction, factory, retail, landscaping, driving, farming, or even desk jobs are all at risk of developing an aching back and neck. Although your job may…
Things to Consider When Choosing a Spine Surgeon
You may be suffering from chronic back pain due to your profession, your favorite hobby, a sports injury, a fall, or an accident. You’re not alone: About 28% of men and 32% of women in the United States struggle with back pain. If your primary care physician has recommended that you have back surgery, you…
Can Steroid Injections Help with Chronic Spinal Pain?
Back pain is often caused by spinal problems. It can be a mere nuisance or debilitating, depending on the exact condition or injury, as well as its severity. If you are looking for an effective treatment solution for your chronic spinal pain, consider speaking with an orthopedic doctor about steroid injections. This treatment has helped…
How Can a Spine Surgeon Help Treat My Back Pain?
Most people will experience at least one episode of acute back pain during their lifetime. If you suffer from back pain, a spine surgeon can provide a range of nonsurgical and surgical treatments to effectively address your condition – allowing you to get back to your regular activities as soon as possible. Because the spine…
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…
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…
Sciatica and Spinal Stenosis: What’s the Connection?
A strong lower back assists in performing physical activities properly. It gives the body the strength and support to perform daily tasks such as lifting and standing. However, narrowing of the spinal canal and traumatic physical injuries can impact the lower back. It might eventually affect the legs and feet, as well. Although it is…