Spinal pain and related spine problems can trigger a lot of issues in day-to-day life. These back pains can cause lost days in work, strained relationships caused by irritability, and physical exhaustion. Thus, you need to see a spine surgeon to solve the problem. However, you also need to know what spine surgeons can treat so that you won’t be wasting your time going to different surgeons not knowing exactly which of your problems they can treat.
Spine problems can be addressed with conservative treatments, surgery, or a combination of the two. Here are some of the conditions that your spine surgeon can treat:
Degenerative Spine Conditions
This is a general term referring to spine conditions caused by the loss of normal function or structure of the spine. These problems are often due to age and overuse.
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc occurs because of the wear and tear of the rubbery cushions (discs) located in between the bones that make up your spine. Arm and leg pain, numbness, and weakness are some of its symptoms. There are also cases when affected individuals do not experience any symptoms of the condition.
Upon diagnosis, your doctor will prescribe treatments for your condition. If your symptoms don’t improve after 6 weeks of nonsurgical treatment, the doctor may suggest surgery. Look out for symptoms such as continued pain, numbness, and weakness, as well as the loss of bowel and bladder control.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is characterized by narrowed spaces between your spine. This decreased space puts pressure on and pinches the nerves traveling through that space. It may also be caused by bone overgrowths, tumors, and other spinal injuries. Although rare, this condition can cause permanent weakness and numbness, balance problems, and even paralysis when left untreated.
A spine surgeon may perform decompression surgery to remove the lamina or a part of it on the affected vertebra. This will help increase the space in the spinal canal, thus relieving the pressure of the spinal cord or nerve roots simultaneously diminishing the pain. and.
Spinal Deformities
Spinal deformity is a term used to refer to conditions that result in abnormal curvatures of some sections of the spine. These deformities may be due to age, congenital abnormalities, or neuromuscular diseases.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is the sideways curvature of the spine. The cause of idiopathic scoliosis, the most common type, is unknown, although it is linked to hereditary factors. The less common types are due to neuromuscular conditions and congenital defects.
Many cases of scoliosis are mild, but the curve can progress and become more severe over time. Wearing a brace can improve the curvature, but surgery may be necessary to address severe cases and keep the curve from getting worse. The most common procedure is spinal fusion. Spine surgeons can also perform minimally invasive surgery for scoliosis.
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is characterized by an exaggerated forward curvature of the upper back. This condition may be the result of other spine problems like fractures, osteoporosis, disc degeneration, and birth defects. Your spine surgeon will conduct a thorough physical examination to determine the treatment that will best improve your condition. They may recommend surgery if the curvature is severe enough to pinch the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Spinal Cord Tumors
Spinal cord tumor is an abnormal growth within the spinal canals or between the bones in your spine. The location of the spinal tumor is classified into several types. Two of the main types are intramedullary tumors, which grow in cells in the spinal cord, and extramedullary tumors, which begin in the surrounding membrane or nerve roots.
A spine surgeon can help improve your condition by removing the tumor in your spine. With technological advancements in the medical field, neurosurgeons are now able to access tumors that were once thought to be inaccessible.
Spine Surgeons in Colorado
When you experience problems concerning your spine, a spine surgeon can assist you and help improve your condition.
Our board-certified neurosurgeons in Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery in Colorado can help you with your spine problems. For your convenience, we have four clinics across Colorado in Lone Tree, Parker, Colorado Springs, and Aurora. For inquiries, you may direct your concerns at (303) 790-1800. Alternatively, you may schedule a visit with us using this secure online form. Let us help you keep your spine in shape!
