Neck, shoulder and back pain

Back and neck pain can improve with rest. Over-the-counter prescription medication can help relieve the discomfort caused. Before surgery, Dr Bomela can consider several different treatments such as hot and cold packs to target areas of inflammation and physical therapy to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles. Additional forms of therapy include corticosteroid injections, bracing, acupuncture, nerve block injections and osteopathic manipulation.

Back pain normally gets better slowly, even without surgical procedures. Surgeries for cervical radiculopathy, spinal cord compression, and a cervical fracture (broken neck) are performed due to immobility and debilitating pain. Spinal fusion is performed to fuse the ends of the vertebrae to enhance spinal stability. Fusion surgery is done to strengthen an unstable, weakened area of the spine. Dr Bomela can eliminate pain in these regions by fusing the bones' ends. Metal plates and screws are utilised to secure the ends of the vertebrae to reduce pain in the area.

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is surgery that removes material that compresses the nerves of the spine. First, an incision is made over the anterior of the neck where bone spurs are removed. Afterwards, spinal fusion complements the procedure.

The same technique can be applied to address chronic back pain. For example, a laminectomy is a surgery to correct lumbar spinal stenosis. However, after the procedure, the spine is not as stable as it used to be. Fortunately, spinal fusion can help stabilise and strengthen the spine after treating the condition.