Spinal Deformity Treatment in New Jersey

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pinal or backbone deformities are a common condition that may result from injury, genetics or age. The team at Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics proudly serves patients across New Jersey with innovative treatment options for a variety of spinal deformities. Learn more about the back deformities treated and the comprehensive approach to care offered by the experienced medical team at CNSO.

How Spinal Deformity Treatment Works

The natural curve of the spine enables the body to move with ease, providing flexibility and overall support. Spinal deformities may result from the misalignment of this curve, and can significantly impact one’s capacity for day-to-day movement and activities. Deformities can occur in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine and present as a maladaptive shape. Symptoms range from mild discomfort during physical activity to neurologic and musculoskeletal pain. Common backbone deformities include:

• Idiopathic or degenerative scoliosis
• Kyphosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Spondylosis

The medical team at Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics recommends treatment on a case-by-case basis. Each treatment plan is crafted with the individual needs and risk factors of the patient in mind to help ensure positive outcomes.

Before recommending surgery, the CNSO team explores non-invasive methods for pain management and treatment, which may be recommended singularly or alongside other treatments. Common non-surgical options for spinal deformities include:

Over-the-Counter (OTC) and Prescription Medication

OTC or prescription medication may be used to alleviate mild pain and discomfort associated with the patient’s condition. While this is not a cure, it can provide relief for mild spinal deformity symptoms.

Injections

Designed to reduce swelling, corticosteroids may be injected into the affected area. Injections are administered closer to the nerve root or directly into the affected joint. While this method won’t correct the deformity, it can help with pain management.

Back Bracing

Often recommended for adolescents, a back brace may be used to prevent the progression of the curvature. Each brace is fitted to the spine to ensure anatomically correct development. In this case, doctors monitor the condition over time as the child grows, and adjust the course of treatment as necessary.

Physical Therapy

Mild conditions may be treated through physical therapy. A therapist may recommend specific exercises, massage therapy, and various modalities (heat, ice, or electric stimulation) to alleviate the condition. Core abdominal strengthening exercises and nerve injections may help prevent the progression of the deformity.

If conservative methods have proven ineffective or the patient’s symptoms have worsened, surgical options may be explored. Surgical procedures for spinal deformities include:

Laminectomy

A laminectomy is performed to surgically decompress the lamina bone in the spine. During the procedure, this portion of the vertebrae is removed, along with overgrown joints and ligaments. By alleviating the pressure put on the nerves by the misshapen lamina, the surgeon may be able to alleviate severe nerve pain. This surgery may be performed using minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Spinal Fusion Surgery

The goal of spinal fusion surgery is to restore normal alignment and stabilize abnormal movement between bones. While more extensive than a laminectomy, this type of surgery may be performed using minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Using advanced techniques, surgeons may be able to correct the condition through minimally invasive spine surgery. This method uses small incisions and precise instruments to repair the issue with little tissue damage and blood loss. This procedure also typically yields reduced recovery times for many patients.

The neurosurgeons at CNSO may use robotics for minimally invasive and other spinal deformity surgeries, allowing the team to navigate the area with a high level of accuracy and under intraoperative image guidance. Through pre-operative planning software, surgeons can map out the procedure and access complex and difficult-to-reach areas with relative ease.

Preparing for Spinal Deformity Treatment

With any form of treatment, the medical team will create a comprehensive plan that maps out the next steps for the patient. The physicians discuss the condition and available treatment options in detail as well as how each patient should prepare. If the patient has co-morbidities, medical clearance may be a necessary step before surgery.

Some medications may need to be avoided prior to the procedure, such as blood thinners and certain OTC medications that affect the body’s ability to clot. On the day of surgery, patients are typically instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for at least 8 hours prior.

Taking Care after Spinal Surgery

Knowing what to expect after surgery can provide peace of mind. Recovery after spinal surgery varies depending on the spinal condition, type of surgery, overall health of the patient, and other factors. Minimally invasive surgery typically leads to quicker recovery times and less pain during recovery than open surgery. Some treatments may require rehabilitation and exercise through physical therapy afterward to help ensure a sound recovery.

After surgery, patients are often advised to avoid strenuous activity and be prescribed medications for pain and discomfort as the body heals. The neurosurgeon will review any specific post-surgical instructions with each patient. If recovery is projected to take several weeks, patients may need extra help at home to help with wound care, household chores, and other tasks.

Learn More about Spinal Deformity Treatments

Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics takes a collaborative approach to care with a team of board-certified neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons, pain management specialists, and physical therapists working together to provide patients with the care they need from diagnosis to recovery.

If care is needed for an NJ patient with a deformed spine, CNSO is here to help. Offering both surgical and non-surgical treatments, patients across New Jersey in Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Morris, and Hudson counties can receive the treatment they need. Contact Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics today.