Learning that a spinal tumor may be causing back pain or neurological symptoms can be frightening. Questions about whether the tumor is cancerous, how it will affect the spinal cord, and what treatment may involve are often the first concerns patients have after receiving a diagnosis. The good news is that spinal tumors are not…
Back pain can make everyday activities more difficult, from getting out of bed to sitting at work to unloading groceries. While rest may provide temporary relief, the right exercise program can improve mobility, strengthen the muscles that support the spine, and help reduce pain. At Branko PRPA M.D. Spine Surgery, we use exercise as part…
A spinal fracture can happen suddenly after a fall, car accident, or other traumatic injury. In people with weakened bones, even a minor movement can cause a fracture. While the diagnosis can be alarming, not all spinal fractures are the same. Some are stable and heal with conservative care, while others require surgery to protect…
Does your back feel stiff after a long drive or your neck ache after a day at your desk? While occasional soreness is common, persistent pain that returns day after day shouldn’t be ignored. One possible cause is degenerative disc disease, a condition that develops as the spinal discs gradually lose strength and flexibility with…
Have you ever bent over to pick something up, twisted to grab something from the back seat, or gotten out of bed only to feel a sharp pain in your back or neck? While many aches and pains fade with time, persistent discomfort accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness may point to a problem with…
Often, patients ask, “what is a laminectomy of the spine” and why it might be recommended. Laminectomy is a surgical procedure used to create space in the spinal canal to help alleviate the symptoms associated with an irritated or impinged nerve root or spinal cord. This pressure can be caused by a variety of problems,…
Scoliosis affects more than posture. For many people, it causes daily discomfort that interferes with work, sleep, exercise, and movement. Pain may begin as stiffness or muscle fatigue, then become harder to ignore. The good news is that many patients can reduce symptoms and improve function through the right combination of care, exercise, and medical…
If you have ever noticed discomfort creeping in after a long day at your desk or on the couch, you are not imagining it. Sitting can cause back pain, and the reason has a lot to do with pressure and posture. When you are sitting, especially for long periods, your spine is placed under more…
Back pain can affect nearly every part of your daily life. Simple activities like sitting, walking, or even sleeping may become uncomfortable or painful. When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, spinal fusion may be considered as the next step. At Branko PRPA M.D. Spine Surgery, we help Milwaukee patients understand their options so they…