WHY ARE PATIENTS CALLED “PATIENTS”?


The word patient is one we hear every day in medical settings. It refers to someone receiving care from a doctor, nurse, or other kind of healthcare professional. But have you ever stopped to wonder why we are called “patients”? The answer lies in the word’s etymology and its historical usage, which reveal important insights about how medicine has been viewed and evolved over the centuries.

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Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation: A New Frontier in Chronic Pain Management

Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments sometimes fall short, leaving patients searching for relief. Among the emerging therapies, Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulation stands out as a promising option, offering targeted pain relief for conditions that have been historically difficult to manage.

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What Is a TENS unit and will it work for me?

Back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are numerous treatments available, one method popular for its non-invasive and drug-free approach is the use of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) units.  The truth is, we don’t completely understand how or why they work. However they can be pretty helpful for some patients so I thought it worth discussing them here a little bit. 

So what is a TENS Unit?

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SPONDYLOLISTHESIS

Spondylolisthesis is more than just a mouthful. It actually is a relatively common condition that can affect any part of the spine, although it is most common in the lumbar region. As a result, one vertebra starts to slip forward and out of alignment with the vertebra below it. This displacement can lead to varying degrees of discomfort and impairment in mobility.  Some patients may have spondylolisthesis and not even know it, because it doesn’t always cause symptoms. However, it tends to gradually worsen with time and it can become disabling. 

Spondylolisthesis can result from various factors, including:

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DO I HAVE ARTHRITIS?

Sorry to be blunt but yes, you do have arthritis. Everyone gets at least some arthritis if you live long enough, yet it often remains misunderstood and underestimated. It’s not just a disease of the elderly; it can strike at any age. And it can have a lasting impact on mobility, quality of life, and mental well-being. 

What is Arthritis?

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Bertolotti’s Syndrome: A Potentially Painful Anomaly of the Lower Spine

Bertolotti’s syndrome, a variant of a common spine condition called  lumbosacral transitional vertebrae, is an interesting yet lesser-known anomaly affecting the lower spine. Named after the Italian physician Mario Bertolotti, this condition sheds light on the complexities of spinal anatomy and its impact on musculoskeletal health.

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MAINTAINING YOUR SPINE AFTER SURGERY

Any back surgery, even a smaller one, is a major procedure that can have significant impacts on a person’s life, both physically and emotionally. While it can sometimes be necessary to address serious spinal issues, it’s obviously preferable to avoid additional surgery if possible. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of needing another back surgery in the future. By adopting healthy habits and making lifestyle changes, you can support your spine and reduce the likelihood of experiencing further problems. Here are five practical steps you can take to help you avoid another back surgery:

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