The spine is a critical part of the body. It gives structure to your upper body and holds your body up straight. It also holds the spinal cord within it, which makes it a crucial part of your health and wellbeing. Spine surgeons are experts in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions and injuries of the spine. A common misconception is that spine surgeons only perform surgery. However, this isn’t true. Spine surgeons first employ conservative treatments to treat issues. When conservative treatments do not work or fail to alleviate symptoms, surgical options are explored.
Here are some common issues that spine surgeons treat:
Scoliosis
Scoliosis refers to an unnatural curvature of the spine. Normally, the spine has a curve that goes vertically. Individuals with scoliosis have a sideways curve to the spine. Scoliosis often occurs during childhood when growth spurts happen before puberty. In most cases, scoliosis is mild and causes few symptoms. However, for some, scoliosis is a big problem because it results in a serious spine deformity and causes a host of symptoms. Severe scoliosis is extremely disabling and can cause a lot of pain and disability. Spine surgeons diagnose and treat scoliosis of all severity levels. They employ a variety of treatments and surgeries to fix scoliosis problems.
Herniated Disc
The spine is made up of vertebrae that are stacked up on top of each other. Between the vertebrae are discs made of gel-like material. The discs cushion the vertebrae and serve as shock absorbers when you move. For a variety of reasons, a disc can become herniated. This means the disc is pushing out from its intended spot. If the herniation is slight, you may not notice any symptoms. However, if the herniation is moderate or severe, you will likely feel pain in the area as well as in either the upper extremities or lower extremities, depending on the location of the herniation.
Spinal Injuries from Sports or Car Accidents
One of the most common areas of the back that gets damaged when you are a part of a car or sports accident is the spine. In most cases, injuries are minor. It could be a fracture, disc herniation, or a temporary injury. However, in serious accidents, you could severely damage the spine, which could potentially harm the spinal cord that sits within it. Spine surgeons are able to diagnose and fix such issues in most cases. If the spine is severely damaged and has resulted in damage to the spinal cord, you may also need to see a neurology specialist, as well. Spine surgeons often work with other physicians to deliver better care to patients with such injuries.
Spine Surgeon in Central Maryland
If you are suffering from a spine injury or condition, or if you have pain or other symptoms stemming from the spine, it’s best to see a spine surgeon as soon as possible. The experts at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics would love to help you find relief – come see us for quick and effective results, so you can return to enjoying your life to the fullest. Call (410) 644-1880 or (855) 4MD-BONE to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online.
