What Are Spinal Deformities?
A healthy spine is slightly curved, but certain conditions can cause the spine’s normal curvature to become exaggerated. Spinal deformities may consist of a side-to-side curvature, as occurs with scoliosis, or a front-to-back curvature, as occurs with kyphosis. In adults, excessive spinal curvature can often be traced to age-related spinal degeneration. It may also result from spinal trauma or poor posture.
Spinal deformities do not always cause pain or require treatment. However, problems may arise if vertebral misalignment restricts movement or pressures a spinal nerve. A compressed nerve can produce a number of uncomfortable symptoms, including localized and radiating pain, numbness, muscle weakness and tingling sensations that travel from the spine down an arm or leg.
How are spinal deformities treated?
When a spinal deformity requires treatment, the approach taken can vary based on the nature of the spinal deformity, the extent of the spinal curvature, the amount of nerve compression present (if any) and the patient’s age and overall health. Many physicians advise their patients to begin with nonsurgical therapies to help relieve discomfort. Some treatment options for spinal deformities include:
- A neck or back brace, which can be worn during certain activities to support and stabilize the spine
- Physical therapy, including targeted stretches and exercises to enhance range of motion, restore balance and strengthen the muscles that support the spine
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can be taken as needed for pain relief
- A narcotic pain reliever or epidural steroid injection, which may be prescribed for severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medications
While spine surgery is generally viewed as a last resort, it may be considered if nonsurgical therapy does not provide meaningful symptom relief within several weeks. The goal of a surgical procedure may be to straighten the spine or reduce pressure on a spinal nerve.
At Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston, Texas, we emphasize individualized treatment for spinal deformities and other spine conditions, recognizing that each patient is unique. Our experienced team includes board-certified and double-board-certified orthopedic surgeons, many of whom specialize in spine surgery and are well-versed in performing the latest minimally invasive techniques. We also offer on-site physical therapy and rehabilitation services, allowing our patients to receive comprehensive treatment services in a single location.
For more information about the treatment options for spinal deformities available at Advanced Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine of Houston, TX, contact us today.
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1Professional Building II At North Cypress Medical Center
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2North Cypress Professional Building At Lakewood Crossing
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3North Cypress Professional Building At Towne Lake
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4Advanced Orthopaedics Memorial
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This Hospital/clinic is the best that will take care of your pain and ailments. I will never trust any one else but Dr. Alain Elbaz to heal my body. The staff is awesome, polite, respectful and as professional as the team that works with Dr. Elbaz. I recommend him and all the doctors in the clinic because of their experience and honesty.
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Dr. Bacon is hands-down the best doctor I have ever had (skills, knowledge, bedside manner, and more,) Garrett is an intelligent P. A. who is very approachable and answers any and all questions promptly, and Jose is warm, incredibly compassionate and genuinely shows great concern for the patients. He represents the practice very well. There are so many more positives to say about them, but not enough room! I highly recommend Team Bacon!
Doctor Brooks is the best. His advice to get lubricant injected into my knees has made my life so much better. Kudos!
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