Any injury to your spine, which is the column of bones in the center of your body that connects your head to your pelvis, is considered an orthopedic spinal cord injury. Bone fractures, ligament tears, muscle tears and strains, nerve damage, and herniated discs are all possible injuries. A slip or fall resulting in soft tissue damage such as a muscle strain or contusion is the most common type of injury. However, other types of accidents, such as dislocation or fracture, can also result in serious spinal cord injuries.
When a patient suffers a spinal column injury and experiences altered sensations, weakness, or other abnormalities of the nervous system, an orthopedic surgeon may be the first specialist to be consulted. Orthopedic spine surgeons are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal injuries caused by trauma or degenerative conditions. Their abilities include determining which bones have been fractured and the severity of those fractures; assessing spinal stability; and collaborating with other specialists to develop the best treatment plan for that specific case.
What Are the Causes of Orthopedic Spinal Injuries?
A traumatic spinal cord injury is usually the result of a traumatic event, such as a car accident, a fall, a sports injury, or any other event that causes bodily harm. Degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis, which cause inflammation of cartilage and bone in joints throughout the body, can also cause an orthopedic spinal injury.
How Are Orthopedic Spinal Injuries Diagnosed?
Your doctor will most likely perform a physical examination and ask about your symptoms to diagnose orthopedic spinal injuries. They may also suggest certain imaging tests, such as:
X-rays
A diagnostic test employs invisible electromagnetic energy beams to create images on film of internal tissues, bones, and organs.
MRI
A diagnostic procedure produces detailed images of organs and structures within the body by combining large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer.
CT Scan
A diagnostic imaging procedure that produces cross-sectional views (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. It is used to detect bone fractures or other problems in specific areas such as the thoracic spine, lumbar spine, and cervical spine.
Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis
This test is used to detect abnormalities in spinal cord functions such as sensation or motor function. A small amount of spinal fluid is removed using a needle inserted into the lower back area where fluid accumulates between the vertebrae (spinal canal). The sample is then analyzed by laboratory technicians for chemical content, including proteins linked to certain diseases. Results are frequently available immediately, but further interpretation by doctors is required before an accurate diagnosis can be made.
How are Orthopedic Spinal Injuries Treated?
Based on the severity of a person’s condition and overall health, their doctor will determine which treatments are best suited for them. The following are the most common types of treatment:
Medication
Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used for back pain management, reducing swelling and inflammation. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium. These medications may alleviate symptoms, but they do not address the underlying cause of your injury.
If you have severe back pain that isn’t responding to other treatments, your doctor may recommend a steroid injection. Injections of steroids can reduce inflammation, but they can also have serious side effects. If you’re having trouble moving around because of your back injury or if you have severe injuries, a steroid injection may be recommended, even if it’s only temporary relief.
Surgery
One of the most common treatments for orthopedic spinal injuries is surgery. The goal of surgery is to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, which can relieve symptoms and help prevent further nerve damage.
Decompressive laminectomy and spinal fusion are the two main types of surgery.
Decompressive laminectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves removing bone from around an injured nerve root to make more room for it. This relieves pressure on your brainstem or spinal cord and helps to prevent further damage.
Spinal fusion is a more involved procedure that entails removing damaged discs and fusing vertebrae together with metal rods or screws to prevent movement between them. This surgery typically requires a longer recovery period than decompressive laminectomy, but it can provide better long-term stability as well as pain relief caused by inflammation in discs or bones pressing against nerves (called spinal stenosis).
The type of surgery recommended by the doctor will be determined by the severity of your injury and the other symptoms you are experiencing (such as numbness or weakness).
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an orthopedic spinal injury treatment that focuses on restoring the body’s ability to move and function. The goal is to help the patient regain strength, endurance, and coordination so that they can return to their normal routine.
Physical therapists treat orthopedic spinal injuries with specific exercises. Stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises are among them. They also teach patients how to use assistive devices like crutches or wheelchairs so they can move around freely.
Contact a New York Spine Specialist for Spine Diagnosis and Treatment.
Spinal injuries are common and can have serious ramifications. The good news is that many of them can be treated with the proper care. The treatment plan will vary depending on the severity of your injury. However, it is critical to seek medical attention as soon as an orthopedic spinal injury occurs.
At New York Spine Specialist, we examine you and recommend the best spine treatment option for orthopedic spinal injuries. Early treatment can aid in the reduction of pain and inflammation, allowing the injured area to heal properly. Contact us to book an appointment with us. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of a full recovery.
