"I cannot stop bragging about Dr. Bonati & his entire staff...They want you to be healthy again. They want you to enjoy life again." -Mike H pic.twitter.com/dG6jYwJvB5— BonatiSpineInstitute (@DrBonati) October 19, 2016
The Bonati Spine Institute is the premier spinal surgery center in America. Read more about the Bonati Spine Procedures at our blog.
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Patient Testimonial: Mike H
Friday, October 21, 2016
Treatment Options for a Bulging Disc
For some people, a bulging disc may not lead to any serious symptoms. However, for some, the symptoms can be painful as well as bothersome for everyday living. Left untreated, a bulging disc can actually lead to further spinal issues including nerve compression.
A bulging disc occurs when the inner portion, the nucleus fluid, of an intervertebral disc protrudes from the outer wall of the disc. The bulge can put pressure on the nerve roots, which then leads to pain in the upper and lower extremities, along with other symptoms.
Trauma, such as an auto accident, can cause a bulging disc. But the condition most commonly occurs due to aging. Poor posture can actually weaken the spinal discs and in time, makes the displacement of the nucleus fluid much more likely.
Some symptoms of a bulging disc may include:
The majority of the pain a person will experience will be determined by where the disc is bulging. If it is in the upper region of the spine, they’re more likely to have neck issues. A bulging disc in the mid-to-lower spine will lead to pain in the lower extremities, including the legs and/or feet.
If you are dealing with a bulging disc, the only thing you’re worried about is finding relief. Conservative treatments are the first option to consider. There are several bulging disc exercise options and stretches that could help provide some relief.
Lie on your back with your knees bent and pressed together. Tighten your core and slowly bring both knees down toward your right side. Hold this stretch for 10 seconds. Repeat this movement with your knees being pushed down to your left side and hold for 10 seconds. You can repeat the twisting stretch up to 3 times a day.
One bulging disc exercise to consider completing is the bridge. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart. You should then raise your hips off the ground while keeping your feet firmly planted. The goal is to achieve a straight line from your shoulders through your knees. Hold this position for 10 seconds and then slowly lower your bottom back down. It’s okay if you are unable to hold this position for 10 seconds, hold it as long as you can and then repeat it 3 times.
Lie on your back with your knees bent. Slowly bring both your knees toward your chest and use your hands to hold them in place. Hold this position for a few seconds; you should feel a stretch in your lower back. You can also perform this exercise with one leg at a time.
Low-impact aerobic exercises can not only help you stay active, but also help subside some of the pain associated with a bulging disc. Low impact cardio may include water exercises, walking or stationary biking.
When you are suffering from a bulging disc, exercise might be the last thing on your mind. However, it is important to keep active and build a strong core as it can help protect your back from further injury.
If conventional methods are not helping and you believe that your condition is worsening, contact the professionals at The Bonati Spine Institute. You may be eligible for surgery that can help you get back on your feet.
Visit www.bonati.com to learn more.
A bulging disc occurs when the inner portion, the nucleus fluid, of an intervertebral disc protrudes from the outer wall of the disc. The bulge can put pressure on the nerve roots, which then leads to pain in the upper and lower extremities, along with other symptoms.
Trauma, such as an auto accident, can cause a bulging disc. But the condition most commonly occurs due to aging. Poor posture can actually weaken the spinal discs and in time, makes the displacement of the nucleus fluid much more likely.
Some symptoms of a bulging disc may include:
- Pain when bending or turning
- Pain made worse with coughing or laughing
- Muscle spasms
- Severe low back pain or neck pain
The majority of the pain a person will experience will be determined by where the disc is bulging. If it is in the upper region of the spine, they’re more likely to have neck issues. A bulging disc in the mid-to-lower spine will lead to pain in the lower extremities, including the legs and/or feet.
If you are dealing with a bulging disc, the only thing you’re worried about is finding relief. Conservative treatments are the first option to consider. There are several bulging disc exercise options and stretches that could help provide some relief.
The Twisting Stretch
Lie on your back with your knees bent and pressed together. Tighten your core and slowly bring both knees down toward your right side. Hold this stretch for 10 seconds. Repeat this movement with your knees being pushed down to your left side and hold for 10 seconds. You can repeat the twisting stretch up to 3 times a day.
The Bridge
One bulging disc exercise to consider completing is the bridge. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart. You should then raise your hips off the ground while keeping your feet firmly planted. The goal is to achieve a straight line from your shoulders through your knees. Hold this position for 10 seconds and then slowly lower your bottom back down. It’s okay if you are unable to hold this position for 10 seconds, hold it as long as you can and then repeat it 3 times.
Knee to Chest Stretch
Lie on your back with your knees bent. Slowly bring both your knees toward your chest and use your hands to hold them in place. Hold this position for a few seconds; you should feel a stretch in your lower back. You can also perform this exercise with one leg at a time.
Low Impact Cardio
Low-impact aerobic exercises can not only help you stay active, but also help subside some of the pain associated with a bulging disc. Low impact cardio may include water exercises, walking or stationary biking.
When you are suffering from a bulging disc, exercise might be the last thing on your mind. However, it is important to keep active and build a strong core as it can help protect your back from further injury.
If conventional methods are not helping and you believe that your condition is worsening, contact the professionals at The Bonati Spine Institute. You may be eligible for surgery that can help you get back on your feet.
Visit www.bonati.com to learn more.
Friday, September 30, 2016
Exercises for Helping with Radiculitis Pain
Radiculopathy can lead to debilitating pain that extends throughout the body, which is then referred to as radiculitis. Though radiculopathy and radiculitis might seem like the same thing, radiculitis treatment options will be different as radiculitis is pain that is radiating through the body rather than just one location.
Radiculitis treatment options will usually involve conventional methods, such as hot/cold therapy, over-the-counter medication and physical therapy. By completing physical therapy, you are strengthening muscles around the affected area, which can provide some pain relief.
If you are suffering from back pain, radiculitis treatment options might include some type of exercises to help strengthen your back. Before completing any of these exercises, be sure to consult with your doctor to find out if you can complete them safely. If any of these exercises are painful to complete, do not continue performing them and seek help from a professional.
Back extensions can help alleviate some of the pressure, pain and discomfort you’re feeling. You can complete back extensions at home or your local gym. Start by lying on your stomach. Then, interlock your fingers and clasp your hands behind your lower back. Lift your head and chest slightly from the ground and hold this position for five seconds. Repeat this 8 to 10 times.
Begin by lying on the floor on your back; it’s best to use a mat or towel on the ground. Bend your knees and put your feet firmly on the ground. Place your hands on the back of your thighs. Bring your needs toward your chest and try to bring you upper body forward. It should feel like you are hugging yourself into a ball while on the ground. Hold this for a few seconds and then stretch your body back out. Repeat this about 10 times.
There are various exercises that can be completed to strengthen your core. A stronger core can help support the back, but remember that you do not want to complete exercises that exacerbate your pain.
First, try a bridge. Begin by lying flat on your back. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the ground. Raise your hips off the floor until they are aligned with your knees and shoulders and hold this pose for 3 deep breaths. Repeat these steps 5 more times.
Another low impact option is water leg lifts. Step into the shallow end of a pool and stand with your back against the pool wall. Keeping one leg on the ground, begin lifting your other leg up in a straight line. This should create a 90-degree angle. Slowly lower your leg. Do the same with the other leg. This is considered one repetition; complete a total of 10 repetitions.
Aerobic exercise can increase blood flow and nutrients, which aids in the healing process. Walking or riding a stationary bike can provide conditioning, without causing pain or discomfort. Some people suffering from back pain might also choose swimming or other water exercises for pain relief and to strengthen their muscles.
When exercise and conventional treatment methods are no longer working, surgery might be an option for radiculitis treatment. Debridement, which is the removal or torn, inflamed, or damaged spinal tissue can provide relief from the pain you’re experiencing due to radiculitis.
If you are considering treatment options for radiculitis, learn about the Bonati Spine Institute on Vitals.
Radiculitis treatment options will usually involve conventional methods, such as hot/cold therapy, over-the-counter medication and physical therapy. By completing physical therapy, you are strengthening muscles around the affected area, which can provide some pain relief.
If you are suffering from back pain, radiculitis treatment options might include some type of exercises to help strengthen your back. Before completing any of these exercises, be sure to consult with your doctor to find out if you can complete them safely. If any of these exercises are painful to complete, do not continue performing them and seek help from a professional.
Upper Back Extension
Back extensions can help alleviate some of the pressure, pain and discomfort you’re feeling. You can complete back extensions at home or your local gym. Start by lying on your stomach. Then, interlock your fingers and clasp your hands behind your lower back. Lift your head and chest slightly from the ground and hold this position for five seconds. Repeat this 8 to 10 times.
Back Stretch
Begin by lying on the floor on your back; it’s best to use a mat or towel on the ground. Bend your knees and put your feet firmly on the ground. Place your hands on the back of your thighs. Bring your needs toward your chest and try to bring you upper body forward. It should feel like you are hugging yourself into a ball while on the ground. Hold this for a few seconds and then stretch your body back out. Repeat this about 10 times.
Core Strengthening
There are various exercises that can be completed to strengthen your core. A stronger core can help support the back, but remember that you do not want to complete exercises that exacerbate your pain.
First, try a bridge. Begin by lying flat on your back. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the ground. Raise your hips off the floor until they are aligned with your knees and shoulders and hold this pose for 3 deep breaths. Repeat these steps 5 more times.
Another low impact option is water leg lifts. Step into the shallow end of a pool and stand with your back against the pool wall. Keeping one leg on the ground, begin lifting your other leg up in a straight line. This should create a 90-degree angle. Slowly lower your leg. Do the same with the other leg. This is considered one repetition; complete a total of 10 repetitions.
Low Impact Aerobic Exercises
Aerobic exercise can increase blood flow and nutrients, which aids in the healing process. Walking or riding a stationary bike can provide conditioning, without causing pain or discomfort. Some people suffering from back pain might also choose swimming or other water exercises for pain relief and to strengthen their muscles.
When exercise and conventional treatment methods are no longer working, surgery might be an option for radiculitis treatment. Debridement, which is the removal or torn, inflamed, or damaged spinal tissue can provide relief from the pain you’re experiencing due to radiculitis.
If you are considering treatment options for radiculitis, learn about the Bonati Spine Institute on Vitals.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Treatment Options for Radiculitis
Any type of spinal condition can lead to pain. However, when the condition begins to impede on your day-to-day life, it is important to determine not only what is wrong, but also what treatment options are available.
Radiculitis is caused by the inflammation of the nerves at the root, where it connects to the spinal column. The pain that radiates from the compressed nerves through the body is what is referred to as radiculitis. This pain can eventually become debilitating. Radiculitis can occur anywhere on the spine, but it most often affects the lower back and the neck.
What Causes Radiculitis?
Radicular pain may occur when nucleus pulposus, the chemical in the center of the spinal disc, comes through the disc and touches a nerve. When this pain begins to radiate throughout the area affected or other body parts, this is radiculitis.
• Cervical radiculitis – a nerve root in the lower spinal segment is impacted
• Lumbar radiculitis – a nerve root in the upper segment is impacted
If a cervical nerve root is impacted, a person is much more likely to experience pain in the neck, shoulders and arms. Lumbar radiculitis is much more likely to cause pain in the lower back, buttocks and upper legs.
Treatment Options
After being diagnosed with radiculitis or another spinal condition causing radiculitis, treatment begins with something conservative. For example, a physician may suggest over-the-counter or prescription medications and physical therapy. Heat and/or cold therapy may also be used to reduce symptoms.
Though some may find relief in these conservative treatments, they are short-lived. Some patients might find that the radicular pain subsides for a few weeks but ultimately returns. Though a person may opt to continue the course of conservative treatment, some may wish to explore other options, such as surgical intervention.
Laser debridement is one of the treatment options available at The Bonati Spine Institute for radiculitis. The procedure involves the removal of torn, inflamed or damaged dead tissue. By doing this, the impacted nerves are properly treated in order to reduce pain.
This type of intervention may be necessary in order to prevent muscle weakness. Unfortunately, radiculitis may go for only certain muscle groups or one side of the body. As a result, that side may become more weakened as the patient favors the muscles that are stronger.
If you believe that you may be suffering from radiculitis, schedule an appointment with your physician today. A complete medical evaluation and imaging tests may be necessary to determine the precise cause of your radicular pain. Upon receiving a diagnosis, your physician can discuss the treatment options available.
Friday, September 9, 2016
American Medicine Today
Our show #AmericanMedicineToday is filming with some amazing physicians and researchers at #UFHealth today. pic.twitter.com/MW13iMu4W7— BonatiSpineInstitute (@DrBonati) September 8, 2016
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Sciatica Treatments for Pain Relief and Mobility
If you’ve had sciatica, you know the pain — pangs that begin in the nerve roots and move through the nerve, down the hamstrings and into the foot. The leg agony is often more severe than the back pain — some have compared it to the nerve pain you feel when you have a toothache. It is important to realize that sciatica is a symptom of an underlying condition, usually a herniated disc. While there are some forms of sciatica treatment that relieve the pain, the underlying condition will need to be addressed to achieve lasting pain relief.
Below are some methods used for sciatica treatment that can relieve pain and increase your mobility.
Yoga and Massage
Gentle yoga stretches can strengthen muscles and improve flexibility so that you don’t develop a poor posture and aggravate the sciatica. Trigger point massage can also help relieve pain. When the piriformis muscle under the sciatic nerve gets tight it can pinch the sciatic nerve. Pressure applied to this area as well as the lower back and glutes relieves the tightness and pinching to prove relief from the pain.
Muscle Relaxers and Pain Relievers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, either over the counter or prescription for sciatica treatment can ease the pain caused by tight muscles. In addition, since painful muscle spasm often accompany a herniated disc, your doctor may prescribe a muscle relaxer or pain reliever.
Epidural Steroid Injections
If your pain doesn’t get better within a month, and other sciatica treatment hasn’t helped, you may get relief from an epidural steroid injection. The goal of the injection is to relieve the inflammation that is causing the pain. However, due to concerns about side effects, including bone density loss, these injections are limited to no more than three a year.
Exercise and Physical Therapy
Even though it may be the last thing you want to do, light exercise or physical therapy is well-known sciatica treatment. Movement increases the blood flow, aiding in getting rid of the chemicals that cause inflammation. A light 15-20 minute walk, swimming or water aerobics are all forms of exercise that keep you moving without excess stress on you sciatic nerve.
Surgery
If you’ve tried several sciatica treatment methods to relieve your pain and still have symptoms after 4-6 weeks, you and your doctor may consider surgery. Patients who have surgery for a herniated disk usually have less pain and disability than patients who do not.
If you'd like to know more about sciatica surgery as a treatment method, The Bonati Spine Institute is here to help you. Contact us to discuss your sciatic nerve pain.
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