A spine surgeon can help treat and manage a wide range of conditions affecting the spine. Thus, if you have been experiencing back pain or other symptoms that may indicate an issue with the spine, such as foot and leg tingling, it is a good idea to book a consultation. Learn when to consult a spine surgeon and what to expect when meeting with one.
Back and neck pain are common. However, there could be an issue with the spine when pain is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms. Here are the most common signs that indicate the need for a consultation with a spine surgeon:
While these symptoms could indicate a serious condition such as spinal infection, spinal tumors, or a spinal cord injury, prompt treatment can lead to better health outcomes. Thus, it is best to consult a spine surgeon as soon as possible.
As their title suggests, a spine surgeon is a medical provider who treats conditions affecting the spinal cord. Many spine surgeons are also neurosurgeons, meaning they can handle conditions that impact the nervous system. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, these include traumatic injuries, tumors, infections, degenerative diseases, and congenital anomalies.
Although neurosurgeons specialize in performing surgical procedures, they will always exhaust all other options, such as physical therapy and medication, before recommending an invasive procedure. This is to limit the potential for complications. Thus, they diagnose conditions affecting the nervous system and curate a treatment plan for each patient. If surgery is the best option, they will help the patient prepare for and heal from surgery in addition to performing it.
According to Penn Medicine, spine surgeons perform two types of surgeries: traditional and minimally invasive. Traditional surgeries, or open surgeries, are considered invasive because the surgeon must make an incision along the spine and sort through soft tissue and muscles to reach the site of operation (i.e., the spinal cord). Conditions that require traditional spine surgery include spinal stenosis and sciatica.
Conversely, minimally invasive spine surgeries involve making a much smaller incision. The spine surgeon will often access the site of operation with a tube. Minimally invasive surgery is recommended whenever possible due to its reduced risk for complications and shorter healing period. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons states that this approach to surgery can treat certain cases of spinal instability, scoliosis, tumors, herniated discs, and bone spurs.
If you have noticed the common signs of a spine condition, consult a spine surgeon. Our Phoenix neurosurgeon can diagnose and treat the condition so that you can get back to what matters most. Contact Randall Porter, M.D. today to begin.
Request an appointment here: https://arizonaneurosurgeon.com or call Randall Porter, M.D. at (602) 603-8951 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Spine Surgeon in Phoenix, AZ.
If you have been referred to a brain surgeon, you may feel nervous or confused about what to expect during the consultation. This initial meeting is essential, as it sets the expectations and goals for your treatment journey. Knowing what this medical professional does and what to expect prior to the first appointment can provide…
Navigating neurological challenges requires professional treatment from a neurosurgeon, personal perseverance, and healthy coping strategies. If you have been diagnosed with a neurological issue or are caring for a loved one who has, there is help available. Here are some helpful insights about the intricacies of the human brain and the comprehensive care needed to…
Minimally, invasive spine surgery has revolutionized the treatment of various spinal conditions, offering patients a less invasive alternative to traditional spinal surgery. This technique involves smaller incisions, reduced muscle damage, and faster recovery than traditional spinal procedures. For those suffering from debilitating back or neck pain, consulting an experienced neurosurgeon for minimally invasive spine surgery…
Typically, people seek over-the-counter or at-home remedies for back pain treatment. However, those can only go so far. Some cases require the attention of a neurosurgeon.A neurosurgeon is a specialty medical professional whose primary focus is the central and peripheral nervous systems, which include the brain, spine, and nerves. They can perform noninvasive and invasive…
A consultation with a brain surgeon is critical in addressing neurological issues. The Randall Porter,…
Here are some helpful insights about the intricacies of the human brain and the comprehensive…
For those suffering from debilitating back or neck pain, consulting an experienced neurosurgeon for minimally…
Typically, people seek over-the-counter or at-home remedies for back pain treatment. However, those can only…
Artificial disc surgery offers a beacon of hope for those struggling with chronic back pain.
Learn how our neurosurgeon can help restore your natural facial expressions.
