Opioids: Why We Don’t Use Them
Opioids are a type of drug derived from the opium poppy plant that is used to relieve pain. Not only do opioids alleviate pain, but they also create a euphoric or "high" sensation, which has been found to be highly…
Do Massages Help Treat Lower Back Pain?
A massage is a pleasant way to relax and relieve stress, but did you know that massages can also be a great treatment for lower back pain? Massage therapy has been used throughout human history in both Eastern and Western…
What is an Annular Tear?
An annular tear is an injury to the annulus fibrosus, which is the outer ring of fibers that make up the intervertebral discs in the spine. If a tear of the disc occurs, and the nucleus of the disc pushes…
What Causes a Bulging Disc?
A bulging disc, also called a herniated or slipped disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc pushes through a weak spot in its surrounding, outermost layer. When a disc becomes compressed and bulges out, it may…
The Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery
A large majority of spinal surgeries are vastly complex, making them some of the most difficult surgeries to perform and recover from. Now, with advanced modern technology, minimally invasive spinal surgery has completely revolutionized the way doctors are able to…
Why Spine Surgery Isn’t Always the Answer
Trauma, smoking, incorrect posture, aging, and inactivity can all significantly injure your spine. As the leading cause for doctor visits, back pain affects millions every year. Fortunately, a majority of back problems can be solved with non-invasive treatments that do…
Yes, You Can Have Spine Surgery Without Opiates
History of Opiate Misuse For decades, misuse of both prescription and non-prescription opioids has been rampant across the United States. In 2017, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency on the opioid crisis, as…
7 Spine-Friendly Activities to Try This Weekend
Back pain is a multifaceted problem that affects millions of Americans every year. As a result of our modernized society, the majority of Americans have adopted a sedentary way of life. From commuting in the car, to sitting at the…
4 Tips For Living With Sciatica
The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back and down the legs. When this nerve becomes pinched or compressed, it can cause sciatica. Sciatica pain radiates from the lower back to the buttock and down the leg, usually only happening…
3 Ways to Prevent a Herniated Disc
One of the most common causes of back pain is a herniated disc. Between each vertebrae are intervertebral discs, flat, thin discs that serve as shock absorbers for your spine. While these intervertebral discs are incredibly sturdy, they can weaken…
