Treatment Options for Chiari Malformation: Surgery and Non-Surgical Approaches
Chiari malformations are a group of complex brain abnormalities that affect the area in lower posterior skull where the brain and spinal cord connect. The most common form is the Chiari Type 1 malformation, which we will focus on in this article.. What Causes a Chiari malformation? The exact cause of Chiari malformations are unknown. Sometimes the condition is present from birth, but the most common form (Type 1) is normally found in adulthood after symptoms develop. Doctors categorize Chiari...
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Preparing for Chiari Decompression Surgery
Chiari decompression surgery is a procedure that people seek to address their Chiari malformation symptoms. Chiari malformation can cause headaches, neck pain, numbness, and difficulty with balance and coordination for those with the condition. Some people address these symptoms with medication and physical therapy. For others, Chiari decompression surgery is the best option. Chiari malformation comes in several types, and there are nuances to treating each type. Chiari malformation type 1 and type 2 are most common, whereas type 3...
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Preparing for a Laminectomy Surgery: Know Before You Go
When you’re suffering from chronic back pain, it can feel like a constant battle for relief. It can also be incredibly frustrating when interventional treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or injections fail to ease symptoms. At this point, once conservative treatments are exhausted, surgery is often a viable option—including laminectomy surgery. For patients facing laminectomy surgery, preparation is an essential part of the process as it helps pave the way for a successful surgical outcome and recovery. Here,...
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Road to Recovery: Rehabilitation After Discectomy for Improved Spinal Health
Does any of this sound familiar? Lower back pain that won’t quit. Trouble bending over. Difficulty lifting not-so-heavy objects. Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs. If that’s your day-to-day, you may be living with a spinal issue affecting your lower back. Don’t despair! There are procedures available to help get you back to a pain-free (or pain-reduced) life. One such surgery is called lumbar discectomy. And, while the road to recovery post lumbar discectomy can be a challenging journey,...
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Ask a Neurosurgeon: What to Know About Brain Aneurysms
A brain aneurysm can feel like a terrifying diagnosis, often compared to the grim specter of a stroke. This fear is not unfounded, given the severe damage both conditions can inflict. But, there are distinct differences between the two. Understanding brain aneurysm symptoms, their causes, and how to prevent them is crucial. When it comes to understanding the brain aneurysm versus stroke distinction, what signs of a brain aneurysm to look out for, or the treatment process, no one is...
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Is it a Cervical Spinal Stenosis or a Pinched Nerve?
Cervical Spinal Stenosis or Pinched Nerve: What Are the Symptoms? Cervical spinal stenosis is a common spinal condition. According to research, degenerative spinal changes affect up to 95% of people by the age of 50—and spinal stenosis falls into this category. It’s important to understand the symptoms of the condition so individuals can intervene in a timely manner. If you are experiencing any of the below symptoms, it’s worth a consultation to understand exactly what you’re dealing with. Cervical Spinal...
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What is Essential Tremor?
New Jersey Brain and Spine's Dr. Azmi discusses Essential Tremor, shedding light on this condition, and treatments.
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Aneurysm Coiling: Minimally Invasive Treatment for Safer Outcomes
A brain aneurysm, also known as a cerebral or intracranial aneurysm, is caused by a weakened artery wall that ultimately forms into a bulge, blister or sac off the side of the arterial wall. Patients normally do not have symptoms unless the aneurysm ruptures. Aneurysms can occur at any age, but are more likely in adults over age 25 and are most common between the ages of 30 and 60. Aneurysms that have ruptured are a life threatening condition with...
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The Aging Spine: Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease and Maintaining Spinal Health
Degenerative disc disease, which is most common in older adults, is a common cause of back pain and occurs when your spine begins to wear away. The Impact of Degenerative Disc Disease After age 40, most people will begin to experience various degrees of spinal degeneration as the cushioning in the spine begins to wear away. It is estimated that almost 20% of U.S. adults have some amount of spinal degeneration by age 65. This number increases to approximately 35%...
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