All posts by Legacy Neurosurgery

Is your bulging disk causing your back pain?

As our bodies age so do our spines. Arthritic changes will be present in the spine which include bulging disks, degenerative disk disease and joint changes. The degree that these changes occur are often related to genetics. A simple bulging disk is actually an extremely common finding on MRIs of the spine and is not an indication for surgery. There are many other structures in the low back and neck that are very sensitive to pain especially the muscles and numerous joints that support the spine. These are more often the cause of low back and neck pain and are treated with conservative therapies. Occasionally a disk will actually herniate out of the normal position between the vertebral bones and cause pressure on spinal nerve resulting in extremity pain. The disk herniation itself is not painful but can result in pain by causing inflammation and/or pressure on these spinal nerves. If extremity pain from a compressive herniated disk cannot be fixed with conservative treatments sometimes surgery is indicated. Our neurosurgeons are trained to read spine MRIs, understand the complicated anatomy of the spine and perform neurological exams to determine appropriate treatment options. 

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Dream as if you’ll live forever. Live as if you’ll die today. -James Dean

Sixty years ago, on September 30, 1955, on a lonely stretch of two-lane highway in Northern California, James Dean was killed in a head-on collision. The Porsche Spyder 550 he was driving slammed into a Ford sedan when its driver did not see Dean coming and made a left-hand turn in front of him. In the violent wreck, Dean’s neck was broken. He died on impact. He was 24 years old.

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Willie Mays & “The Catch”

On this day in history, Legacy Spine and Neurological Specialists highlights Willie Mays and “The Catch,” one of the most amazing plays ever displayed on a baseball field. Mays’ didn’t just get lucky and happen to be in the right place at the right time. It took years of practice and great skill to make this amazing play and cement his legacy. We honor Willie Mays exceptional work ethic and outstanding talent, it is something we at Legacy Spine and Neurological Specialist strive for every day!

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Pilates

When it comes to injuries and back pain, it is important to find exercises that are easy on the spine. Pilates is one of the best exercises to maintain and support a healthy spine. When looking for a Pilates program or studio, make sure to do the following:

1.Let your instructor or trainer know of any previous injuries and your medical history
2.Pick a Pilates studio that encourages neutral spine positions and training.
3. Always engage your pelvic floor and abs to protect the lower back

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Physical Therapist: experts in movement and function

Legacy Physical Therapy

Physical therapists are defined by the APTA as “experts in movement and function” but are very often associated with an environment in which they deal with patients who are ill or have undergone surgery. A large part of a physical therapist’s program is directed at preventing injury, loss of movement, and even surgery.

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This Day in History: Golfer Bobby Jones wins first ever “Grand Slam” of Golf.

On this day in 1930, golfer Bobby Jones wins his fourth major tournament of the year, making him the first person ever to win the “Grand Slam” of golf.

Jones’ 1930 Grand Slam–which consisted of victories in the U.S. Open, British Open, U.S. Amateur and British Amateur in the same year–was the first in golf history. The four events took place over a five-month period, with the U.S. Amateur coming last.

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Lumbar Disc Disease

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition, and may range from no symptoms to severe pain in the back and or legs with variable degrees of numbness, tingling and weakness in the legs.

Causes

The lumbar discs are the cushions between each of the lumbar vertebrae in the lower back. These cushions are composed of an inner layer of material called the nucleus pulposus, which is surrounded by fibrous bands called the annulus. The nucleus material is a gelatinous core that has the consistency of “boiled shrimp”. These cushions serve as the shock absorbers in our lower back, just like the shock in your car. These “shock absorbers” experience daily wear and tear.

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Today in History: Central High Integrated & Bill of Rights Passes Congress

On this day in history two monumental events occurred that have helped shape the rights of all Americans forever. Central High School becomes integrated on September 25th, 1957, here in Little Rock, AR. We are proud to be apart of a community with such great history. Much earlier, on September 25th, 1789, the Bill of Rights passed Congress! Legacy Spine and Neurological Specialist, proudly salutes the courageous men and women responsible for both.

 

Image from: https://archives.nbclearn.com/portal/site/k-12/flatview?cuecard=1468

 

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Migraines

Medical Monday: Migraines

Migraine headaches are frequently described as throbbing, shooting, aching, or dull headaches.When severe, they can be associated with nausea, light-sensitivity, sound-sensitivity, and dizziness.

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