The spinal cord starts at the base of the skull and ends in the lower thoracic or upper lumbar area of the spine. At each level of the spine, nerves leave the spinal cord to innervate parts of the body. In the cervical spine, or neck area, these nerves provide sensation and movement to the […]

Back braces come in many shapes and sizes providing different levels of lumbar (low back) support. Some braces require prescriptions from your doctors. Others can be ordered online or bought at a local stores. While back braces can be helpful for some injuries, there are pros and cons when using back braces. A back brace […]

Just how bad does nicotine impact spinal fusion? What do I need to know to help my chances of successfully quitting smoking? Spinal fusion (also termed arthrodesis) is a surgical procedure used to join bony segments of the spine. Fusion techniques are often used in coordination with decompressive surgery in which bone spurs, unhealthy joints, […]

Patients often ask about the practice of Yoga. Patients that suffer from back or neck pain, have undergone surgery, or are needing surgery want to know if yoga would help them improve their pain. Below is a recent question from on of my patients and my response. Patient’s Question: I would like to start yoga, […]