Revolutionary Back Pain Relief at Duke Spine

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Importance of Back Pain Relief
3. Understanding Disc Herniation
   • What is Disc Herniation?
   • Causes of Disc Herniation
   • Symptoms of Disc Herniation
4. Facet Joint Arthropathy: Another Culprit of Back Pain
   • What are Facet Joints?
   • Causes of Facet Joint Arthropathy
   • Symptoms of Facet Joint Arthropathy
5. Traditional Treatment Methods vs. Duke Spine Approach
   • Medial Branch Blocks and RFAs
   • The Limitations of Traditional Treatments
   • Introducing the Duke Laser Disc Repair
6. The Duke Laser Disc Repair Procedure
   • Preparing for the Procedure
   • Numbing the Area
   • Fixing the Anular Tear
   • Benefits of the Duke Laser Disc Repair
7. Denervating the Facet Joints with Duke Plasma Rotom
   • Understanding Denervation
   • The Benefits of Duke Plasma Rotom
   • A Permanent Solution for Facet Pain
8. The Role of Chiropractic Care in Back Pain Treatment
   • Manipulation Under Anesthesia
   • The Evolution of Chiropractic Treatments
   • Combining Chiropractic Care with Minimally Invasive Procedures
9. Post-Surgery Recovery and Pain Management
   • Comparing Fusion Surgery to Laser Surgery
   • Minimal Pain and Faster Recovery with Laser Surgery
   • The Duke Spine Institute Advantage
10. Conclusion

The Road to Back Pain Relief with Duke Spine

Back pain can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of a person's life. Finding effective treatment for back pain is crucial to regain mobility and enhance overall well-being. At Duke Spine, we understand the complexity of back pain, particularly when it stems from disc herniation or facet joint arthropathy. In this article, we will delve into the causes and symptoms of these conditions and explore the innovative treatments offered at Duke Spine, such as the Duke Laser Disc Repair and Duke Plasma Rotom. Whether you are a chiropractor seeking relief or an individual tired of living with chronic back pain, our comprehensive approach can make a lasting difference in your life.

Understanding Disc Herniation

What is Disc Herniation?

Disc herniation occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer. This can put pressure on surrounding nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. The most common location for disc herniation is the l45 disc, situated between the L4 and L5 vertebrae. Other frequently affected discs include the L5-S1 and L3-4. Understanding the specific disc involved is crucial in determining an effective treatment plan.

Causes of Disc Herniation

Disc herniation can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Age-related degeneration of the discs
• Improper lifting techniques
• Poor posture
• Obesity
• Trauma or injury to the spine

Symptoms of Disc Herniation

The symptoms of disc herniation vary depending on the location and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Radiating pain in the back, buttocks, or legs
• Numbness or tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty standing or sitting for extended periods

Facet Joint Arthropathy: Another Culprit of Back Pain

What are Facet Joints?

Alongside disc herniation, facet joint arthropathy is a common cause of chronic back pain. The facet joints are small, stabilizing joints located between each pair of vertebrae in the spine. They allow for smooth movement and protect the discs from excessive strain. When these joints become inflamed or damaged, they can contribute to persistent back pain.

Causes of Facet Joint Arthropathy

Facet joint arthropathy can be caused by various factors, including:

• Osteoarthritis
• Joint injury or trauma
• Degenerative spinal conditions
• Abnormalities in spinal alignment

Symptoms of Facet Joint Arthropathy

Facet joint arthropathy is characterized by the following symptoms:

• Localized pain in the neck, upper back, or lower back
• Stiffness and limited range of motion
• Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or standing
• Tenderness and swelling around the affected joint

Stay tuned for the next sections where we will explore the limitations of traditional treatment methods and introduce the revolutionary approaches offered at Duke Spine for the relief of disc herniation and facet joint arthropathy.