Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that occurs in any joints of the body. Spinal osteoarthritis wears down the protective cartilage between the discs in the neck and lower back. Genetic defects or trauma may cause this condition earlier in life, but it is generally seen to develop as we age. Dr. Sina Rajamand provides advanced spinal osteoarthritis treatment at Battle Born Brain and Spine in Reno, Nevada.

There are 33 vertebrae in the spine, separated into three sections: cervical (neck), thoracic (middle) and lumbar (lower back). These bony vertebrae are cushioned by pads of cartilage in between. It is this cartilage that is attacked by osteoarthritis. As the condition wears away this cushioning cartilage, the vertebrae can rub together and press on the spinal cord, causing symptoms like:

• Back pain
• Pain that radiates to the arms, shoulders, hands, hips, legs and feet
• Stiffness
• Weakness
• Numbness
• Loss of mobility
• Impaired bowel or bladder function
• Damaged nerves

Generally, an MRI is required to detect deterioration in the spinal cartilage, as well as its level of severity. With these diagnostic tools in hand, Dr. Rajamand can then determine if a surgical approach to treatment is needed.

Carson City Surgical Treatment for Spinal Osteoarthritis

When more conservative measures, like physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, massage or medications, do not provide relief, or if your condition is already quite advanced, surgical treatment for spinal osteoarthritis is necessary. This is particularly true when there is a loss of function due to the progression of the condition.

Surgical treatment for spinal osteoarthritis has as its primary goal to remove the source of pressure on the spinal cord and related nerves. This may also require spinal fusion for stabilization of the spine, especially if damaged vertebrae or bone spurs were removed. Implants can also be used to replace damaged cartilage between vertebrae.

Dr. Rajamand specializes in the use of minimally-invasive procedures when accessing the spine. By using only a small incision and tiny surgical tools with cameras, he can access the trouble area and perform the necessary repairs in a minimum of space, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues and reducing the risk of infection. These procedures also require less time for recovery than traditional open surgeries.

Contact Dr. Rajamand to schedule a consultation at Battle Born Brain and Spine. You may reach our Reno office by phone or online.