When it comes to back and neck pain, many people assume it’s just part of aging or daily stress. However, these symptoms could indicate underlying spine issues that require expert attention. At MGM Medical Center, our spine orthopedic team is equipped to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of spine-related conditions. In this blog, we’ll explore what spine orthopedics entails, its causes, the latest treatment options, and how spine conditions are diagnosed.
What is Spine Orthopedics?
Spine Orthopedics is a specialized field of orthopedic medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the spine. This includes the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back) regions. Spine orthopedic specialists at MGM Medical Center manage a variety of issues, from simple back pain to complex spinal injuries and deformities.
Depending on the patient’s condition, our experts may use conservative treatments, advanced surgical methods, or minimally invasive techniques to offer the best outcomes.
Common Causes of Spine Conditions
Spine problems can affect individuals of all age groups, often influenced by lifestyle, age, or injury. Common causes include:
1. Poor Posture: Spending long hours at a desk or constantly looking at digital screens can strain the spine.
2. Injuries or Trauma: Accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries can lead to spinal fractures, slipped discs, or nerve compression.
3. Degenerative Disc Disease: Aging causes spinal discs to wear out, resulting in pain and stiffness.
4. Herniated or Slipped Discs: A disc may protrude from its normal position and press on nearby nerves, causing pain or weakness.
5. Spinal Deformities (e.g., Scoliosis): Abnormal curvature of the spine is often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
6. Osteoporosis: A condition that reduces bone density and makes the spine more vulnerable to fractures.
7. Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing the spinal canal may compress nerves and lead to pain or mobility issues.
When to Seek Help from a Spine Orthopedic Specialist:
If you experience any of the following symptoms, consider visiting MGM Medical Center for a spine evaluation:
- Ongoing back or neck pain
- Numbness or tingling in limbs
- Difficulty walking or balance problems
- Pain radiating down the arms or legs
- Incontinence (in severe cases)
How Spine Problems Are Diagnosed
At MGM Medical Center, our spine specialists use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of pain and discomfort:
1. X-Rays: Reveal bone abnormalities, fractures, or arthritis.
2. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Gives a detailed view of spinal discs, nerves, and soft tissues.
3. CT Scan: Helps identify complex fractures and bone problems.
4. EMG (Electromyography): Assesses nerve and muscle function.
5. Bone Density Scans: Detects osteoporosis and related spine issues.
Advanced Spine Treatments at MGM Medical Center
We are committed to offering the most effective, cutting-edge treatments for spine care:
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
- Customized physical therapy programs
- Pain management with medications
- Anti-inflammatory injections for temporary relief
2. Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)
These techniques involve small incisions, less trauma, and quicker recovery. Common procedures include:
- Microdiscectomy
- Endoscopic discectomy
- Laminectomy
3. Robotic Spine Surgery
Available at MGM Medical Center, robotic surgery ensures high precision and reduced recovery time by enhancing surgical accuracy.
4. Spinal Fusion
This technique joins two or more vertebrae to stop painful movement.
5. Artificial Disc Replacement
Preserves mobility by replacing damaged discs with synthetic ones.
6. Regenerative Therapies
Treatments such as PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and Stem Cell Therapy are available for the natural healing of spinal tissues.
Tips to Prevent Spine Issues
- Practice correct posture
- Stay active with back-strengthening exercises
- Use ergonomic furniture
- Avoid heavy lifting or lift properly
- Maintain a healthy weight and diet
Spine health is essential for an active, pain-free life. At MGM Medical Center, our orthopedic spine experts provide world-class care using advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive solutions. Whether it’s chronic pain, a slipped disc, or a spinal injury, early diagnosis and expert treatment can make a significant difference.
Choose MGM Medical Center for compassionate care, experienced surgeons, and leading-edge spine treatment options. Don’t let back pain hold you back—take the first step toward relief and recovery today.
