Spine Basics – Bret G. Ball, MD, PhD, FAANS

I’ll Trade You Some Lime and Green Tea for Your Cigarettes

Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful changes a person can make for their health. While traditional approaches like nicotine replacement therapy and counseling are effective, many people would like some alternative remedies for additional support during their quit adventure. Interestingly, there’s evidence that some things you might find already in your home such as lime and green tea that have gained attention for their natural properties that may aid in smoking cessation.

Understanding the Ligamentum Flavum. Hint, it’s not a tasty treat.

There are many ligaments which connect the bones of the spine together forming the core of the body: the spinal column. Among the many ligaments that contribute to this function, the ligamentum flavum stands out the most interesting. This elastic ligament plays a key role in maintaining spinal stability and mobility, yet it can also become a source of significant pathology when compromised.

What is the Ligamentum Flavum?

Thank you AST!

I was invited to speak at the annual meeting of the Oregon chapter of the Association of Surgical Technologists yesterday. It was a great opportunity to connect with these vital yet under appreciated healthcare providers. Hopefully my talk was interesting and informative.

Most patients don’t even know about the role of a Surgical Technologist in ensuring the success of their surgery. So I thought I’d write a brief introduction.

Trigger Point Injections: Targeted Relief for Persistent Muscle Pain and Tension

Chronic muscle pain can be debilitating, limiting mobility and affecting daily life. For individuals dealing with persistent knots and tension, trigger point injections (TPIs) are a well established and effective treatment option. But what exactly are TPIs, and how can they help alleviate pain?

What Are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are tight knots or bands of muscle fibers that form when muscles fail to relax fully. These points can be tender to the touch and may cause referred pain—a sensation that the pain is located or radiates to other areas of the body. Common conditions associated with trigger points include:

Living with Degenerative Spine Disease: Challenges and Lessons

Degenerative spine disease is a basket term for the gradual accumulation of wear and tear that affects the structure and function of the spine over time, often leading to chronic pain, mobility challenges, and a profound impact on daily life. As someone whose mission is helping others navigate life with this condition, I’ve learned to adapt, find strength in small victories, and redefine what it means to live fully.

Understanding Degenerative Spine Disease

Understanding Myofascial Pain

There’s a common misperception that back pain is always due to injuries to the spine itself, like disc herniations, disc bulges, pinched nerves, slipped discs, and so on. But actually, the vast majority of back pain can better be described as myofascial pain. Myofascial pain is a common yet often misunderstood condition that can significantly impact daily life. Characterized by pain originating from the muscles and connective tissue (fascia), this condition can range from mild discomfort to debilitating symptoms. So what is it? And how does it happen?

What is Myofascial Pain?

Considering a Laminectomy? Well, What Is a Lamina Anyway?

The spine is a remarkable structure, providing support, flexibility, and protection to the body, and the nervous system in particular. The spine is basically a stack of bones, but each bone is composed of several parts. Among its many parts, the lamina is often overlooked but plays an important role in spinal anatomy and function. It also can be a source of some back problems. Whether you’re curious about your spine’s mechanics or preparing for a medical procedure, understanding the lamina is a key part of understanding your spine.

What Is the Lamina?

Can You Say “Zygapophysial”?

Although it’s more commonly known as the facet joint, zygapophysial joint just is so much more fun to say. It’s a mouthful to get out, but it’s worth it because the zygapophysial joint plays a pivotal role in the stability and flexibility of the spine. These joints are essential components of the vertebral column, contributing to its range of motion while also limiting excessive movement to prevent injury. Understanding their anatomy provides insight into spinal mechanics and their involvement in various musculoskeletal conditions.

Why Do You Have to Quit Smoking for Spine Surgery?

Everyone knows that smoking is one of the most harmful habits affecting the body. But did you know that its detrimental impact is particularly evident in surgical outcomes—especially for procedures involving the spine? For individuals preparing for spine surgery, quitting smoking is not just beneficial; it can be a decisive factor in the success of the procedure and the recovery process. Let’s explore why quitting smoking is essential for spine surgery patients and how it can significantly improve outcomes.

Understanding the Anatomy of an Intervertebral Disc

The spine is a remarkable structure that provides support, flexibility, and protection to the spinal cord and nerves. It’s hard to do anything really without engaging your spine. At the core of its mobility and shock absorption are the intervertebral discs—vital structures located between each vertebra that play an essential role in spine health.