Be seen today  844-972-7752
Summit Spine & Joint Centers logo

Category: Back Pain

Epidural Injections for Back Pain

Posted on by dev_admin

Chronic, severe back pain affects an estimated 8.2 percent of American adults, according to a 2019 CDC survey. For those who’ve exhausted conservative treatment options like physical therapy and medication, epidural injections for back pain and other spinal injection therapies offer a promising next step. At Summit Spine & Joint Centers, we specialize in providing advanced pain management techniques, including various types of spinal injections, to help our patients find relief and improve their quality of life.

What Is a Spinal Injection?

Spinal injections are minimally invasive procedures that deliver medication directly to the source of pain in the spine. These injections serve two primary purposes: diagnostic and therapeutic. As a diagnostic tool, they can help pinpoint the exact location of pain, while therapeutically, they can provide significant pain relief and reduce inflammation.

There are several types of spinal injections for back pain, each targeting a specific area and condition. The most common types include the following: 

  • Epidural steroid injections for back pain are perhaps the most well-known type of spinal injection. They deliver a combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroid medication into the epidural space, which surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots. This treatment is effective for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and radiculopathy (pinched nerves). The steroids reduce inflammation and swelling around the affected nerves, while the anesthetic provides immediate pain relief.
  • Facet joint injections target the small joints located between and behind each vertebra. These joints can become inflamed due to arthritis or injury, causing significant back pain. The injection contains a mixture of local anesthetic and steroid medication, which is delivered directly into the affected joint or the nerves that supply it. This procedure can provide both diagnostic information and therapeutic relief for patients suffering from facet joint pain.
  • Sacroiliac (SI) joint injections address pain originating from the joint between the sacrum and ilium bones in the lower back and pelvis. SI joint dysfunction can cause lower back pain, buttock pain, and sometimes leg pain. The injection delivers medication directly into the joint, reducing inflammation and providing pain relief.

What is involved in a spinal injection?

A spinal injection delivers anti-inflammatory and anesthetic medication directly to the source of pain using image guidance, in a single outpatient visit that typically takes less than an hour. Patients are positioned comfortably, and the injection site is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic. Using fluoroscopic guidance (real-time X-ray) or ultrasound, the physician carefully guides the needle to the precise location. This imaging ensures accuracy and safety during the procedure.

While many patients experience immediate relief due to the local anesthetic, the full effects of the steroid medication may take a few days to manifest. The duration of pain relief can vary greatly among individuals, ranging from a few weeks to several months or even longer in some cases.

What to know if you’re considering a spinal injection

Patients considering spinal injections should have realistic expectations about the outcomes. While many experience significant pain relief and improved function, results can vary from person to person.

Some patients need only one injection for meaningful relief, while others require multiple injections or a combination of different injection types to achieve optimal results. Injection type and frequency depend on the diagnosis and how a patient responds to treatment, not a fixed protocol. While spinal injections can be highly effective, they are not a permanent cure for underlying spinal conditions. They are often used as part of a comprehensive pain treatment plan that may include physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications, and some patients benefit from periodic injections to maintain pain relief and functional improvement over time.

As with any medical procedure, spinal injections carry some risk, though serious complications are rare. Potential side effects may include temporary pain at the injection site, headaches, and in very rare cases, infection or bleeding.

Schedule Your Appointment to Find Pain Relief

At Summit Spine & Joint Centers, our experienced pain management specialists thoroughly evaluate each patient’s condition and medical history to ensure that spinal injections are a safe and appropriate treatment option. Call us at (844) 972-7752 to schedule an appointment at a Summit Spine & Joint Centers location near you or contact us online.

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a spinal injection to work?

Most patients feel some relief within hours from the local anesthetic used during the injection. The anti-inflammatory steroid medication takes longer to take full effect, typically a few days, with relief building over the following weeks.

There’s no fixed number. Frequency depends on the specific diagnosis, how well earlier injections worked, and the treatment plan a physician recommends. Some patients need only one injection for lasting relief, while others benefit from periodic injections spaced months apart to maintain results.

Spinal injections are considered safe when performed by an experienced physician using image guidance. Serious complications are rare. The most common side effects are temporary soreness at the injection site and mild headache, with infection or bleeding occurring only rarely.

Epidural steroid injections deliver medication into the epidural space around the spinal cord and nerve roots, most often for herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or pinched nerves. Facet joint injections target the small joints between vertebrae, most often for arthritis-related back pain in those joints. Both use a similar combination of anesthetic and steroid medication, aimed at different structures depending on where the pain originates.

A Warning About “Do-It-Yourself” Back Pain Fixes

Posted on by dev_admin

As back pain specialists, we have observed a rising trend in patients attempting do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions for back pain relief. While the desire to find quick and easy fixes is understandable, especially given the discomfort and disruption back pain causes in daily life, it is crucial to approach these remedies with caution. This article serves as a warning about the risks and limitations associated with DIY back pain fixes and underscores the importance of professional medical advice.

The Allure of DIY Solutions

In an era where information is just a click away, the internet has become a treasure trove of home remedies and DIY solutions for nearly every condition, including back pain. Social media platforms and forums are filled with tips ranging from stretching exercises to homemade concoctions. The appeal of these solutions is undeniable: they promise quick, cost-effective relief without the need to visit a healthcare provider.

The Risks of Self-Diagnosis and Treatment

Self-diagnosing and treating back pain can lead to a range of issues, some of which may exacerbate the problem rather than alleviate it. Here are several reasons why DIY back pain fixes can be more harmful than beneficial:

  • Misdiagnosis: Back pain can stem from a variety of causes, including muscle strain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, and more. Each condition requires a specific treatment approach. Without a proper medical diagnosis, you may be treating the wrong problem, delaying effective treatment, and potentially causing further harm.
  • Inappropriate Treatments: Many DIY remedies lack scientific backing and may not be effective for back pain relief. Some treatments may even be harmful, leading to increased pain, injury, or other health complications.
  • Over-reliance on Quick Fixes: Quick fixes may provide temporary relief but often fail to address the underlying cause of back pain. This can lead to a cycle of chronic pain and dependency on ineffective treatments.
  • Neglecting Professional Care: Attempting DIY fixes can delay seeking professional medical advice and treatment, which can lead to worsening conditions and more complex problems in the long run.
A Warning About “Do-It-Yourself” Back Pain Fixes
 

Understanding the Limitations

It is important to recognize the limitations of DIY back pain solutions. While some home remedies and exercises can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan, they should not replace professional medical advice and intervention. Only a qualified healthcare professional can assess your condition accurately, recommend appropriate treatments, and monitor your progress. Seeking professional guidance from a healthcare provider specializing in pain management or musculoskeletal disorders, like those here at Summit Spine & Joint, offers several benefits:

  • Accurate Diagnosis: A professional can conduct a thorough assessment, including medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, to identify the precise cause of your back pain.
  • Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your diagnosis, a healthcare provider can develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, which may include medication, physical therapy, exercises, lifestyle adjustments, or even surgery, if necessary.
  • Safe and Effective Treatments: Professionals can recommend evidence-based treatments that are safe and have been proven effective for back pain relief.
  • Monitoring and Adjustment: Your healthcare provider can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed, ensuring that you are on the right path to recovery.

When DIY Might Be Appropriate

While this article serves as a caution against DIY back pain fixes, it’s worth noting that not all home remedies are off-limits. Some practices, such as gentle stretching, yoga, and applying heat or cold packs, can be beneficial when used correctly and as part of a broader treatment plan recommended by a healthcare professional.

Help Yourself with a Phone Call

Back pain can significantly impact your quality of life, and the desire for quick relief is understandable. However, the risks associated with DIY back pain fixes cannot be overlooked. Misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatments, and neglecting professional care can lead to worsened conditions and prolonged suffering. It is paramount to seek professional medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored, effective treatment plan. Schedule an appointment at any of our 30 locations in Georgia including our featured location this month for Pain Management in Columbus, GA.

 

How Long Do Pinched Nerves Last?

Posted on by dev_admin

Waking up with your arm asleep is one thing. Dealing with shooting pain, numbness, or weakness that lingers for days is another. How long a pinched nerve lasts varies widely depending on the cause, severity, and how quickly treatment begins, and understanding your symptoms is the first step to knowing what kind of timeline you’re looking at. Below, we’ll break down the common causes, symptoms, and treatment options so you know when it’s time to consult the pain care specialists at Summit Spine & Joint Centers.

What is a Pinched Nerve?

Let’s start with the basics. A pinched nerve, or nerve compression, happens when excessive pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s function, leading to pinched nerve symptoms like pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness.

Pinched nerves can occur anywhere in the body but are most common in the neck (cervical spine), lower back (lumbar spine), and the carpal tunnel of the wrist.

Symptoms are often worse at night or after sitting still for a while, which is part of what makes a pinched nerve so disruptive day-to-day.

Typical Duration of a Pinched Nerve

According to the Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic, most pinched nerves improve within a few days to a few weeks, especially when the compression is mild. However, the duration can vary based on:

  • Cause: Repetitive activities or certain body positions might exacerbate the nerve compression. For instance, carpal tunnel syndrome due to repetitive wrist motions may take longer to heal than a pinched nerve from a single instance of lifting a heavy object.
  • Severity: Mild compression might resolve faster than severe compression or if there’s any damage to the nerve itself.
  • Underlying Conditions: Some medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes can complicate or prolong nerve compression.
  • Age: As we grow older, our body’s healing mechanisms can slow down. Consequently, older adults might experience longer recovery times.
  • Treatment: Seeking appropriate medical attention promptly and adhering to the recommended treatment can reduce the duration of symptoms.

How long a pinched nerve lasts really depends on what’s causing it. Minor compression, like sleeping in an awkward position or sitting too long, tends to clear up within a few days to two weeks without formal treatment. Compression from a herniated disc or from facet joint changes that narrow the space around a nerve root takes longer to resolve, since it’s the underlying structural issue, not just nerve irritation, that has to improve. Recovery also depends on severity, age, any underlying conditions, and how closely you stick with treatment. 

At Summit Spine, we know how to fix a pinched nerve, and it usually starts with the basics: rest, activity modification, and over-the-counter pain relief, and moves toward more targeted nerve pain treatment if symptoms don’t ease up on their own.

Can a Pinched Nerve Become Permanent?

It’s uncommon, but yes, a pinched nerve can become permanent if the pressure isn’t relieved. When a nerve is compressed for only a short time, function typically returns fully once the pressure is off. 

However, if left untreated, it’s possible for the nerve compression to cause permanent damage, a risk that Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic both note increases the longer compression continues. Here’s why:

  • Chronic Compression: Prolonged pressure on a nerve can lead to chronic inflammation. Over time, this can cause scarring, which might permanently affect the nerve’s function.
  • Decreased Blood Flow: The ongoing pressure might reduce blood flow to the nerve, depriving it of essential nutrients and oxygen. Without these, nerve cells can become permanently damaged.
  • Direct Nerve Damage: In severe cases, the compression can damage the nerve’s protective barrier. This may affect the nerve’s ability to send signals efficiently.

Prevention Is the Key

While some causes of pinched nerves are unavoidable, you can take steps to minimize your risk: 

  • Maintaining good posture, especially at a desk
  • Building regular exercise into your week to keep supporting muscles strong
  • Using ergonomic equipment where you sit or work most
  • Employing proper lifting techniques instead of bending from the back
  • Taking breaks during repetitive tasks so the same tissue isn’t under constant strain.

To minimize the risk of permanent damage, it’s essential to seek medical attention if you suspect a pinched nerve, especially if the symptoms persist or are severe.

We Offer Relief From Pinched Nerves

If a pinched nerve isn’t easing up on its own, Summit Spine & Joint Centers can help identify what’s causing the compression and build a treatment plan around it. Find the pain management location near you, and contact us to schedule a consultation.

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a pinched nerve in the neck last?

A pinched nerve in the neck follows the same general timeline as other pinched nerves, a few days to a few weeks for mild cases. Because neck nerves often connect to the shoulder and arm, symptoms there can take a bit longer to fully resolve, especially if a herniated disc in the cervical spine is involved.

Yes, most mild pinched nerves heal on their own once the pressure causing them is relieved, whether that’s from rest, a change in position, or activity modification. If symptoms haven’t improved after a couple of weeks, or they’re getting worse, it’s worth having a provider take a look rather than continuing to wait it out.

See a doctor if pain, numbness, or weakness lasts more than a couple of weeks, keeps coming back, or starts interfering with daily activities. Sudden muscle weakness, intense pain, or loss of bladder or bowel control are signs to get evaluated right away rather than waiting.

A pinched nerve is the symptom: nerve compression causing pain, numbness, or weakness, while a herniated disc is one possible cause of it. Discs can herniate without pinching a nerve at all, and pinched nerves can come from other sources too, like bone spurs, muscle tightness, or repetitive strain.

Pain Management Options for Seniors

Posted on by dev_admin

Chronic pain can afflict people of all ages, but disproportionately affects seniors and elderly individuals, often severely impacting their quality of life. While medications are commonly prescribed for pain relief, they often come with their own set of drawbacks such as side effects and potential interactions with other drugs. Another typical treatment, physical therapy, may not work for all conditions and can be especially challenging as we age. This article focuses on non-medicinal and non-surgical pain treatments for managing chronic conditions in the senior population.

A multi-modal and individualized approach is often the most effective way to manage chronic pain in elderly patients, and the involvement of the patient in deciding the treatment plan is crucial. Consulting with a pain center physician is the best way to access a wide array of treatments. The choice of treatment should be individualized, considering the type, location, and severity of pain, as well as the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and preferences. Regular consultations and follow-ups with a pain management physician are important to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed.

Here are several treatment options that pain center physicians may offer apart from physical therapy:

Pain Management Options for Seniors

Interventional Procedures

  • Nerve Blocks: Injection of anesthetic directly to a nerve to block pain signals.
  • Epidural Steroid Injections: To reduce inflammation around the spinal nerves.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses radio waves to reduce nerve pain.
  • Joint Injections: For arthritis-related pain.

External Stimulation Therapies

  • Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): For modulating pain perception.
  • Ultrasound Therapy: Can be used for pain and inflammation.

Neurostimulation

  • Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS): Involves implanting a device to send electrical signals to the spinal cord to block pain signals.

Stem Cell & PRP Therapy

  • Stem cell therapy leverages this power by promoting tissue repair at sites affected by injury or disease, such as degenerative disc conditions or osteoarthritis.  
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections use a patient’s own blood cells, which are reinjected to accelerate healing in a specific area.

Medication Management

  • Non-Opioid Analgesics: Such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs.
  • Opioid Analgesics: Prescribed cautiously due to the risk of dependence and side effects.
  • Antidepressants and Anticonvulsants: For neuropathic pain.
  • Topical Analgesics: Such as lidocaine or capsaicin creams.

Assistive Devices

  • Orthotic Devices: Such as braces or shoe inserts, to support and align limbs.
  • Mobility Aids: Like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs to help in moving around.

Patient Education

  • Education on Pain Management: Knowledge about pain mechanisms and management strategies.
  • Self-Management Programs: Empowering patients with skills and strategies to manage their pain.

Physical Therapy

  • Individualized Physical Therapy: A personalized physical therapy program, designed by a qualified physical therapist, can target specific issues causing pain. 
  • Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy involves the use of water for pain relief and treatment. 
  • Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy focuses on helping seniors perform daily activities without aggravating their pain. 
  • Massage: Therapeutic massage focuses on manipulating soft tissue to improve circulation and relieve pain.

Nutritional and Dietary Approaches

A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can play a supportive role in managing joint pain. Foods such as berries, green leafy vegetables, and fatty fish rich in omega-3s can be beneficial. Hydration is also an important factor. Keeping the body adequately hydrated is essential for joint health. Water is crucial for nearly every bodily function, including the production of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints.

Lifestyle Changes

Some of the most effective ways to manage or avoid joint pain come with the way we live our lives every day. One important factor is weight management. Excess body weight can exacerbate joint pain, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Even modest weight loss can significantly reduce the stress on these joints, leading to less pain.

Stress and anxiety can also heighten the perception of pain. Techniques such as meditation and mindfulness can help individuals become aware of their bodies and potentially lower their experience of pain.

Seeking Medical Help for Pain

While pharmacological regimens remain a common route for treating chronic pain, their potential drawbacks make it important to explore alternative options.  Our experienced pain specialists can help a comprehensive, tailored plan to manage your specific condition. Through an integrated approach using innovative treatments including regenerative medicine, it is indeed possible to significantly mitigate pain and improve the quality of life.  Call Summit Spine & Joint Centers today at (844) 972-7752 to schedule your consultation with our pain management specialists. We now have 26 convenient locations available in Georgia including our featured new location for Pain Management in Newnan, GA.

National Correct Your Posture Month: 5 Tips For Better Posture

Posted on by dev_admin

May is National Correct Your Posture Month, so we thought we would take the opportunity to explore some tips on achieving better posture. After all, correct posture is vital to your overall health and results in many benefits such as increased energy, reduced back and neck pain, and greater confidence. It can also prevent muscle tension, pain, and fatigue.

The risks only worsen as we age. An extremely hunched posture, also known as hyperkyphosis, affects about two-thirds of senior women and half of senior men, says NIH News in Health. This poor posture is associated with back pain, weakness, and even trouble breathing, all of which can limit everyday activities, such as brushing your hair and getting dressed. 

Fortunately, there are many minimally invasive pain management techniques and treatments available to help you address the discomfort caused by poor posture. 

Check out these five tips for better posture. 

1.  Sit Correctly at Your Desk

You may feel like it’s more comfortable to slouch when at your desk, leaning back and swiveling around. Instead, try to sit as far back as you can in your chair. Place a lumbar cushion or small, rolled-up towel behind the middle of your back, which protects your spine’s natural curve. Keep your knees bent at a right angle, at the same height, or slightly higher, than your hips. Keep your feet flat on the floor

2.  Avoid “Text Neck” 

With so many of us scrolling, calling, researching and texting on our smartphones all day long, it’s important to be mindful of what this is doing to our posture. Every so often, take some time to stretch your neck. Do some neck rolls one way and then the other. Tilting your head down to respond to messages and check Facebook posts takes a toll on your spine even though you may not realize it. Try to lift the phone up to your eyes rather than moving your head. 

3.  Sit Upright in the Car

It may seem more comfortable to recline in your seat during a long drive, but it’s murder on your posture. Sit more upright whether you’re a driver or passenger. Don’t lock your legs, but rather, bend your knees slightly so they are at hip level or slightly above. Add a small pillow or rolled-up towel behind your back for extra support. 

4.  Wear Heels Sparingly

While fine for an occasional night out, high heels, pumps and stilettos should be left in the closet as far as your posture is concerned. That’s because they thrust the base of your spine forward, resulting in an over-arched back, altering how your backbone lines up and adds pressure on your nerves. This, in turn, causes back pain. Those high heels are also putting more weight on your knees. Stick with a lower heel or flats for daily wear.

5.  Sleep Comfortably 

Get rid of the soft, saggy mattress and instead choose a firmer one that is better at holding your spine’s natural shape. If you are a side sleeper, keep your knees slightly bent but avoid hugging them at your chest. Put a pillow under your head, ensuring it remains level with your spine. If you are a back sleeper, don’t use a thick pillow; a small one under your neck should do.

By heeding the above tips, you can be on your way to feeling more physically fit with greater confidence to face each day.

Contact Summit Spine & Joint Centers to Address Pain Caused by Poor Posture

Got back or neck pain due to poor posture? We have non-invasive treatments that can relieve your chronic pain. Just call Summit Spine and Joint Centers today at (844) 972-7752 to schedule your consultation with one of our pain management specialists.

 

What Is the Most Effective Pain Relief Treatment for Sciatica?

Posted on by dev_admin

Sciatica pain is caused by pinching, inflammation, irritation or compression of a nerve in the lower back. The most common cause? A herniated or slipped disk that puts pressure on the nerve root. Most people will get better over time with simple self-care, but sometimes further treatment is required.

Sciatica is a type of nerve pain that arises from an injury or irritation to the sciatic nerve, the longest and thickest nerve in the body. When this nerve is pinched or damaged in some way, it can be very painful to sit, stand or do much of anything else. It’s a fairly common condition, affecting an estimated 40% of people in the U.S.

Let’s explore the most effective pain relief for sciatica.

Pain Relief Measures

You can try a few home remedies to alleviate pain first, such as low back conditioning and stretching exercises. You can also alternate between ice packs and heat pads to ease the pain so you can function better. Movement is the best way to alleviate sciatic pain, from gentle exercises to massage. You can also take OTC pain medications to relieve swelling and pain.

If that does not work, there are other treatments you can try under the direction of a doctor or back pain specialist.

  • Cortisone medications, given orally or by local injection (epidural injection).
  • Prescription medications, including pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and antidepressants (which can help reduce pain perception in the brain).
  • Physical therapy, including stretching exercise to improve muscle flexibility as well as aerobic exercises (walking, swimming, water aerobics).
  • Alternative therapies including spine manipulation by a licensed chiropractor, as well as yoga or acupuncture.
  • Non-surgical procedures relying on state-of-the-art minimally invasive techniques to improve quality of life and restore function.
  • Surgery to relieve nerve compression at the lower spine. This is a last resort when all of the above have not proven effective.

 

Prevention

While many sources of sciatica are not preventable, you can take some steps to protect your back while reducing your risk:

  • Be mindful of maintaining good posture while sitting, standing, lifting objects and sleeping. Good posture relieves pressure on your lower back, and if you’re not properly aligned, pain is often the first warning sign.
  • Don’t smoke, as nicotine restricts blood supply to bones, weakening the spine and the vertebral disks.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight and having a poor diet are linked to inflammation and pain.
  • Exercise regularly to keep your joints flexible and to strengthen your core, which in turn helps support your spine. It’s best to stick with low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, yoga or tai chi.
  • Remove trip hazards: Wear supportive footwear, keep walkways free of obstacles, keep rooms well-lit, and install grab bars in bathrooms and rails on stairways.

Contact Summit Spine & Joint Centers for Sciatica Relief

If you need more effective pain relief from sciatica, we have focused treatments that can help you. Here at Summit Spine & Joint Centers, we pride ourselves on our experience, expertise, bedside manner and expertise in Interventional Pain Management. Book your consultation today at (844) 972-7752.

 

 

Signs Your Back Pain Could be a More Serious Problem

Posted on by dev_admin

Everyone gets the occasional tweaked back or dull lower back pain. But if you’re experiencing more frequent and more painful back issues as time goes on, this could signal a more serious problem. 

From a sudden spike in discomfort, numbness or weakness, to loss of bladder function and high fever, here are some signs that your back pain needs immediate attention. 

Acute Pain vs. Chronic Pain

First off, let’s discuss the differences between the two types of back pain. Acute pain is basically a short-term pain that usually has an identifiable source, such as strenuous exercise or an awkward movement. It usually heals within a few weeks without treatment and you can get back to your normal routine. 

Chronic pain is a long-term pain. It too can be triggered by an injury, but usually an underlying condition is the root cause. Chronic pain is serious in that symptoms are typically strong enough to affect your overall health, quality of life and mobility for extended periods of time. Chronic pain can come on suddenly, to be sure, but usually it will build gradually and last more than a couple of months.

Adding to the complexity is the fact that chronic back pain may be recurrent, which means it can go away and then come back – over and over again. Overall, chronic back pain is serious and should be evaluated by a doctor. The cause could be a degenerative or slipped disc from an accident, or it could be attributable to a condition such as spinal stenosis.

But there are other times when back pain is an emergency that can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment.

When Back Pain Becomes an Emergency

When back pain is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to be seen right away. Here are some of the symptoms to be on the lookout for:

  • Sudden spike in discomfort, pain, weakness or numbness
  • High fever
  • Loss of bladder or bowel function
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Pain resulting from a fall or blow to the back
  • Unexplainable weight loss
  • Pain that spreads down one or both legs, especially below the knee 
  • Severe pain that does not improve with rest

Once you receive emergency care for the situation at hand, it’s important to make an appointment with a back specialist who can discuss causes, treatments and options for managing the pain going forward.

Contact Summit Spine and Joint Centers for Back Pain Treatment

Whether the cause of your serious back pain is a result of a muscle strain or a bulging disc, contact the back specialists at Summit Spine and Joint Centers right away.  Call us at (844) 972-7752 and make an appointment to visit one our 23 pain centers including our featured new location for Pain Management in Athens, GA.  We utilize state-of-the-art techniques to restore function and improve your overall quality of life.

 

Sleep Posture for a Healthy Spine

Posted on by dev_admin

Sleep is a time of restoration. Your body is hard at work repairing and rejuvenating while you’re asleep. However, because you lose conscious control over your body when catching ZZZs, it’s easy to twist your spine or tuck your pelvis in. Existing back pain can get re-aggravated, and then you end up having a less than restful sleep.

If you make a conscious effort to use supported sleeping postures, you can prevent the concentration of stress on your spine, while keeping your back relaxed and creating a healing environment, according to Spine-Health.

So what’s the best sleep position for a healthy spine? Generally, it’s best not to sleep on your stomach, as it disrupts your normal spinal alignment.

Sleep Tips

Check out these tips for a healthier and more comfortable night’s rest.

Elevate Your Knees

If you like to sleep on your back, put a pillow beneath your knees. When you raise them like that, you’re reducing stress on your lower back while maintaining the natural curve of your spine. To support your head and neck, use a head pillow.

Keep Your Hips Stacked

For side sleepers, place a flat, firm pillow between your knees to align the lower spine with the hips. This also keeps the top leg from putting pressure on your lower back or pelvis. You can also use this position to relieve stress on your lower spine, making more room for your spinal nerves. To keep your shoulders in alignment, raise your head slightly by using a pillow.

Align the Ribs and Pelvis

Also for side sleepers, use a lumbar support cushion under your waist to maintain alignment between the pelvis and ribs. Your upper and lower back will thank you!

Avoid Excessive Curling

While in the fetal position, avoid curling up too tightly. You may feel cozy like that, but this can restrict your breathing and can give you a sore back in the morning.

Use a Medium-Firm Mattress

A mattress that’s not too soft will give you the support you need and promote a better night’s sleep. A firm mattress offers a more even surface to reduce body aches and pains.

That being said, don’t go too firm, as this can disturb your neck and back support, causing the pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. And don’t go too soft, either, which could cause your pelvis area to sag in from your body weight.

Best Sleep Position

The overall consensus for the best sleep position for spinal health seems to be on your back. This practice evenly distributes weight throughout the body while avoiding unnatural curves in the spine.

If you don’t like to sleep on your back, the next best position is on your side with your legs outstretched.

Contact Summit Spine and Joint Centers for Spine Health

For more sleep posture tips or to learn how we can help your postural issues with non-invasive techniques, contact us at (844) 972-7752 about visiting one of our 21 centers including our newest location for Pain Management in Commerce, GA. 

MEDIAL BRANCH BLOCK

Posted on by dev_admin

Do you know what a medial branch block is?

A medial branch block is a treatment we perform at Summit Spine and Joint Centers to help with pain that has developed due to a damaged or inflamed facet joint in the spine. A facet joint is the bony structure that connects spinal vertebrae together. Facet joints help control the movement of the spine and provide extra support and stability for the vertebrae.

When you have a medial branch block, a local anesthetic such as lidocaine is injected into the medial nerve of the facet joint. Injecting the local anesthetic into the medial nerve helps healthcare providers diagnose back pain. If the injection relieves at least 50% of your usual back pain, your healthcare provider will likely confirm that the pain is coming from the facet joint and recommend radiofrequency ablation as treatment. Medial branch blocks are also used to diagnose sacroiliac joint pain.

For the full article click here

If you feel pain when you are bending, twisting or flexing, you may be a candidate for a medial branch block! Call us today to begin your pain free journey! (844) 972-7752

 

 

 

Ways to Treat Sciatica Without Surgery

Posted on by dev_admin

Sciatica references the pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, which extends from your lower back through your buttocks and hips, and then down each leg. This condition usually only affects one side of the body. Sciatica most commonly arises in cases of herniated disks, bone spurs on the spine or spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spine). All of these can compress parts of the nerve, leading to pain, inflammation, and sometimes numbness in your leg.

While sciatica can get quite painful, most times, you can feel relief with non-surgical treatments as well as physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, exercises and cold therapy.

Common causes of sciatica can include:

  • Compressed Lumbar Disc, also known as lumbar radiculopathy, AKA sciatica
  • Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (caused by osteoarthritis and bulging discs)
  • Spondylolisthesis (caused by trauma to the spine)
  • Trauma to the gluteal area
  • Pregnancy

Here at Summit Spine and Joint Centers, we treat many acute and chronic pain conditions of the neck, joints and back, including sciatica, fibromyalgia, disc disease, and spinal stenosis using state-of-the-art, minimally-invasive techniques that help to restore function and ensure a higher quality of life.

It’s always wise to explore all non-surgical options before resorting to an operation as a last-ditch effort. Here are some ways sciatica can be treated without surgery.

How to Alleviate Sciatica

Mild cases of sciatica only need some rest and self-care treatments at home such as hot or cold ice packs. If your symptoms are lasting more than a week, or have resulted from an injury or trauma, see your doctor.

Here are some non-surgical options for sciatica pain treatment:

  • Exercise: Because inflammation improves when you stay active, taking short walks can help.
  • Limited bed rest: Sleep on a firm mattress and stay mostly in bed for a few days to see if that helps.
  • Hot and cold packs: Apply to the lower back, on and off, a few times a day. Do cold packs first for a couple of days, then switch to heat packs.
  • Alternative therapies: Yoga, massage, biofeedback, acupuncture
  • Medication: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and NSAIDS such as ibuprofen and naproxen but don’t use for a long period of time without discussing it with your doctor.
  • Physical therapy: PTs can come up with an exercise and stretching routine to improve posture and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
  • Stretches: Do lower-back stretches every day.
  • Non-surgical procedures: These include Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection, designed to relieve lower back and radiating leg pain. Steroids reduce the swelling and inflammation caused by a variety of spinal conditions.

Surgery isn’t the only option when it comes to sciatica and other spinal pain. Trying non-invasive techniques first can save you a lot of time, money and post-surgical issues.

Contact Summit Spine and Joint Centers

To book a consultation on how to treat your painful sciatica without undergoing invasive surgery,  Call us today at (844) 972-7752 and make an appointment to visit one our 22 pain centers including our featured location in July for Pain Management in Roswell, GA. 

 

 

 

 

 

Most Stressful Life Events

Posted on by dev_admin

From the death of a child to divorce to personal injury, there are many top stressful life events that can affect both your mental and physical health.

The correlation between stressful life events and physical health has been studied extensively over the years. In fact, the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale is used by physicians and scientists to determine if the most stressful life events can predict future illness. It’s actually a list of 43 stressful life events that have been found to contribute to illness.

This scale is helpful in knowing whether a person is at risk for getting an illness in the future, or even if they can take advantage of stress reduction interventions.

A Look at the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale

Back in 1967, researchers Thomas Holmes and Richard Rahe found that a strong correlation between health and stress did indeed exist. This prompted them to rank stressful situations on a scale from most to least stressful, indicating which life stressors place individuals at a higher risk for becoming ill.

Each stressful event was assigned a “Life Change Unit” score. Over the course of a year, those scores are added together to calculate your risk of illness. The top 10 most stressful life events for adults are:

  1. Death of a spouse or child
  2. Divorce
  3. Marital separation
  4. Imprisonment
  5. Death of a close family member
  6. Personal injury or illness
  7. Marriage
  8. Dismissal from work
  9. Marital reconciliation
  10. Retirement

For children and teens, the most stressful events include:

  1. Death of a parent
  2. Unplanned pregnancy/abortion
  3. Getting married
  4. Divorce of parents
  5. Acquiring a visible deformity
  6. Fathering a child
  7. Jail sentence of a parent for over one year
  8. Marital separation of parents
  9. Death of a sibling
  10. Change in acceptance by peers

Types of Illness

Of course, there are other stressful life events for both children and adults than those listed above, from buying a new home to being the victim of a crime. The point is, stressful life events can cause a variety of illnesses for anyone of any age.

Stress not only affects our physical health, it also affects our minds and our behaviors. It’s important to be able to recognize and manage common stress symptoms. Ignoring those symptoms can contribute to a variety of health problems, such as obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.

Your body will tell you that stress is taking a toll, manifesting itself in chronic pain, fatigue, muscle tension, sleep problems, stomach upset and irritable bowel syndrome. In fact, stress is one of the most common triggers of flare ups of fibromyalgia, a long-term condition causing pain, tenderness and extreme sensitivity to touch.

Some of the types of illnesses that can develop as a result of stress include:

  • Chronic pain (lower back and neck pain)
  • Obesity: This is a root cause of many other serious conditions. When stress becomes chronic, excessive levels of cortisol (stress hormone) develop fatty deposits around the midsection.
  • Diabetes: Stress increases the glucose levels of those with Type 2 diabetes.
  • Depression and anxiety: Stress increases the chances of developing these conditions by 80 percent.
  • Gastrointestinal disorders: Stress can worsen gastrointestinal issues, as well as contribute to chronic heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
  • Premature aging: Studies show that chronic stress accelerates the pace of aging.
  • Alzheimer’s disease: Stress may accelerate the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, as it can cause the brain to form lesions more rapidly.

Contact Summit Spine & Joint Centers for Pain Relief

If stress has been manifesting itself in chronic pain or worsening your fibromyalgia and other conditions, call us for a free, no-obligation consultation today at (844) 972-7752. We can help relieve your pain and restore your life with many state-of-the-art minimally invasive techniques including treatment options for nerve pain.

 

 

3 Stretches for Sciatica Pain Relief

Posted on by dev_admin

Sciatic pain, which is caused by the sciatic nerve, can best be described as radiating pain that can travel from the low back down one of your legs. Most people who experience sciatic pain will only have pain on one side of their body. The sciatic nerve can become irritated or inflamed for a few reasons, whether from a herniated disc, a bone spur, muscle tension or injury to the sciatic nerve. Continue reading “3 Stretches for Sciatica Pain Relief”


REQUEST YOUR NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENT