Lumbar fusion surgery — one of the most common types of spine surgery — is an operation to fuse vertebrae in the lower back. It takes hours to complete and many weeks of recovery. Knowing what to expect, how to prepare for spinal surgery, and what to plan for during the immediate and longer-term recovery period is key […]
Having to undergo spine surgery can be a daunting experience to prepare for mentally and physically. Fortunately there are steps you can take to make the experience more comfortable and manageable. Reducing stress by being prepared in the time leading up to surgery can help you have the optimal experience and help you focus on recovery […]
You may have heard of SI joint pain without realizing that the abbreviation SI stands for the sacroiliac, which is the joint connecting the sacrum – or tailbone – and the iliac bone of the pelvis. Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain is fairly common – though not as common as some practitioners think – and while it can […]
Every month, the medical device industry introduces some innovations into the world of spine surgery that they are promoting as the next big thing. While I watch these trends closely, I take a conservative approach to using any new technology in my practice. I wait until an innovation is proven to be effective, safe and […]
For many patients who are experiencing pain or discomfort from a spinal condition, spine surgery can be an excellent option to relieve pain and return to every day activities. Before having surgery, patients must be properly qualified by an experienced orthopedic spine surgeon and fully informed of their treatment options. Any surgery can be scary, […]
The prospect of any surgery can be scary for patients, and that’s especially true for spine surgery. Patients wonder whether surgery will negatively impact their mobility, increase their pain or require a long recovery. What’s scary for patients, though, is routine for experienced orthopedic surgeons. We’re always developing new techniques to lower pain and enhance patients’ […]