common spine questions

SO, DO NEUROSURGEONS WORK ON THE SPINE TOO? I THOUGHT YOU ONLY DID BRAIN SURGERY?

Yes, we do treat the spine, in addition to the brain and nervous system. While other specialists may treat back and neck pain, they primarily focus on the structural aspects of the spine, such as the bones that make up the spine or the muscles that surround it. Neurosurgeons have the advanced training to understand the delicate role that nerves play in your body. Your nerves begin at your spine and radiate outward in a complex web to provide important messages back to your brain (e.g. if a touch feels good or is painful). Treatment from a neurosurgeon is especially important if you have any weakness or numbness anywhere in your body because nerve damage is likely the reason.

WHO ELSE DELIVERS SPINE CARE?

A team of more than 15 ING neurosurgeons, anesthesiologists, and physiatrists. Five physicians further specialize in treating the most complex spinal disorders and injuries.

WHAT MAKES UP THE SPINE?

The spine consists of 24 vertebrae with discs (a gel-like substance) that separate the vertebrae to provide shock absorption and protection. The spine also includes the sacrum and the coccyx. The sacrum is the large triangular bone at the base of the spine that helps to form the pelvis. The coccyx is also known as the "tailbone" and is the last part of the spinal column.

WHY DO I HAVE BACK OR NECK PAIN?

There are many causes of back and neck pain. Sometimes the cause can be muscular and over the counter medications and rest can heal the injury. Other times, the nerves are involved, especially if the gel-like material between the vertebrae "slips" or bulges out and touches the nerves surrounding it. If simple treatments are not providing you with relief, or if you experience tingling or numbness anywhere on your body, make an appointment with your family doctor and see if a referral to a neurosurgeon is appropriate.

ARE THERE NON-SURGICAL SOLUTIONS TO SPINAL DISORDERS AND INJURIES?

Our comprehensive spine care program includes the following non-surgical treatments: physiatry, spine traction, therapeutic injections and referrals to physical therapy in the community you live. As always, our physicians will thoroughly assess each patient's condition and discuss all available treatment options.

CAN MASSAGE HELP MY BACK OR NECK PAIN?

Massage may help your back pain by loosening up stiff muscles in the back that might be in spasm. If massage does not provide any relief or fails to provide long-term relief you should ask your doctor if a referral to a neurosurgeon is appropriate.

CAN I GET THE SAME RELIEF FROM A CHIROPRACTOR THAT I CAN GET FROM A NEUROSURGEON?

Visits to a chiropractor can provide relief to some patients, especially if the cause of the pain is structural (bones) or muscular. If you do not have pain relief after a few visits, talk to your chiropractor or family physician about a referral to a neurosurgeon.

WHAT TYPE OF SURGICAL TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?

Our expertise lies in the treatment of traumatic injuries, spinal tumors, degenerative disease, scoliosis, sports injuries, and disc disease. The most advanced surgical technology and procedures are available to ING patients, including:

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery:

Percutaneous discectomy, percutaneous fusion, percutaneous instrumentation, spinal decompression

Tumor Removal and Stabilization:

Surgical removal and stabilization of tumors with a focused beam of radiation

Spine Trauma Surgery:

Stabilization and repair of traumatic spinal injuries

Kyphoplasty:

Treatment to restore height and shape to vertebral body and strengthen with bone cement

Artificial Disc Replacement:

Advanced treatment to replace degenerative discs

To find out more about comprehensive spine care or to schedule an appointment, please call us at 317-396-1300 or toll free at 888-Call-ING (888-225-5464).