Comprehensive Spine Treatment & Surgery
What Does a Spine Specialist Treat?
A spine specialist diagnoses and treats a broad range of conditions related to the spine. The spine is made up of bones, vertebral discs, muscles, ligaments, nerves, and the spinal cord. Spine specialists understand the problems that can occur to these structures.
Disc-Related Conditions
The intervertebral discs sit between the vertebral bones and act as shock absorbers. Over time, the discs can get damaged or change due to the constant pressure exerted on them. If a disc becomes damaged or herniates, it can put pressure on the nearby nerves.
Our spine specialists treat the following disc-related conditions:
Spinal Stenosis and Nerve Compression
Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the space within the spinal canal or the openings where nerves exit the spine. This can place pressure on nerves, resulting in pain or weakness.
Some of the nerve compression conditions we treat at OrthoAtlanta include the following:
- Spinal Stenosis
- Spinal Stenosis (Cervical)
- Spinal Stenosis (Thoracic)
- Cervical Radiculopathy
- Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica)
- Myelopathy
Degenerative and Structural Spine Conditions
Degenerative changes can affect the vertebrae and surrounding structures with age and may contribute to pain or reduced function.
Degenerative spine conditions we treat include the following:
Spine Injuries and Other Conditions
Trauma is another reason why you may have back pain. We treat the following injuries and other spinal conditions at OrthoAtlanta:
Many spinal conditions have similar symptoms, which is why specialized evaluation is important.
How is a Spine Condition Diagnosed?
A spine specialist will diagnose the cause of back pain before deciding which treatment options are best for you. Your doctor will begin by considering your medical history and the symptoms you are experiencing. They will then begin a physical examination to see how well you stand, sit, and bend your legs.
Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans are used to diagnose the condition by giving a clear picture of the spinal bones or the soft tissue structures such as the discs or nerves. Nerve studies such as EMG are sometimes used in the diagnosis to detect herniated discs or nerve compression.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Spine Conditions
At OrthoAtlanta, our Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians specialize in nonoperative treatment of back pain. They may use certain injections or coordinate with physical therapists to relieve pain and restore function.
Injections
At OrthoAtlanta, we provide many types of injections to relieve pain and restore function, including the following:
- Facet Joint Injections
- Fluoroscopically Guided Piriformis Injection
- Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection
- PRP Therapy for Chronic Back Pain
- PRP Therapy for Whiplash
- Sacroiliac Joint Steroid Injection
- Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Discs
Radiofrequency Neurotomy
We also provide radiofrequency neurotomy procedures to treat pain. This outpatient procedure uses an image-guided needle to direct heat to deactivate the nerves that are causing pain. We provide radiofrequency neurotomy for the cervical facet joints and lumbar facet joints.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
At OrthoAtlanta, our physiatrists collaborate with physical therapists to carry out rehabilitation programs. Physical therapy includes exercises to strengthen the supporting back muscles and improve flexibility and posture.
Physical therapy is also used following surgery to help patients recover. It can improve recovery outcomes and reduce recovery times.
Surgical Treatment for Spine Conditions
Spine surgery may be considered when conservative treatments have not provided significant improvements or when the structural problem is significant enough to warrant it.
At OrthoAtlanta, we provide minimally invasive procedures where possible. These procedures are performed through smaller incisions to minimize tissue damage. These often result in faster recovery times.
Surgical procedures we perform at OrthoAtlanta:
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
- Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy
- Foraminotomy (Lumbar Spine)
- Lumbar Disc Microsurgery
- Minimally Invasive Lumbar Microdecompression
- Minimally-Invasive TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion)
- Sacroiliac Joint Fusion (iFuse Implant System®)
When Should You See a Spine Specialist?
Most types of back pain will improve with rest and home treatments. However, if you notice the following symptoms, it may be a good time to visit a spine specialist:
- Back or neck pain that persists for more than a few weeks or keeps returning
- The pain extends down your arm or leg.
- You have tingling, numbness, or weakness in your arms or legs
- Back pain along with unexplained weight loss
You should seek immediate care if your back pain is accompanied by sudden bowel or bladder problems, fever, or it follows a fall or blow to the back.
Why Choose Piedmont Orthopedics | OrthoAtlanta for Spine Care?
At OrthoAtlanta, all our orthopedic specialists are fellowship-trained and have the expertise to treat a wide range of spinal conditions. We use modern diagnostic tools to provide accurate diagnoses to guide personalized treatment.
We aim to provide conservative treatment first before recommending surgery. When surgery is necessary, we use minimally invasive techniques to minimize the effects on surrounding structures.
When necessary, we collaborate with trusted partners in physical therapy and physiatry to provide continuity of care. Together, we have been trusted in the area for decades.
Get Help for Persistent Back or Neck Pain
Persistent back or neck pain can make everyday activities more difficult, but you don't have to manage it on your own. At Piedmont Orthopedics | OrthoAtlanta, our spine specialists provide comprehensive care for a wide range of spine conditions.
Whatever is causing your back pain, our team can help determine the right treatment approach for your needs. Contact OrthoAtlanta today to schedule an evaluation and take the next step toward improved function and relief.
