How bad can a spine injury be? Having a fractured spine is the worst nightmare that any human being can go through.
There is quite a good number of orthopedic surgeons in Westchester, NY. When searching for an orthopedic in Westchester, you will have to conduct extensive research to identify the best out of them all.
Spine injury is sensitive and should not be taken lightly. The orthopedic should possess good qualities and be highly experienced.
Deciding it is time to undergo a spine injury is scary and overwhelming at the same time. Below are essential factors to consider while choosing an orthopedic.
Qualities You Should Look for When Searching for an Orthopedic Doctor in Westchester, NY?
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Seek Referrals and Reviews
Friends and family around Westchester who have had a spine or back pain treatment from the same orthopedic are good sources to ask for recommendations. Other healthcare professionals too can recommend an excellent orthopedic in Westchester.
Take your time and carry out extensive research for every referral you’re given.
There are also many patients who have undergone spine surgery, and they can tell how good or bad a specific spine surgeon in Westchester is.
After compiling your list, schedule appointments, meet each orthopedic personally, ask them questions, and choose one. You can never go wrong with reviews and referrals.
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Comfort, Trust, and Flexibility
Choosing an orthopedic you can trust and be comfortable with is essential.
When meeting the Orthopedic in Westchester, monitor your interaction with them and how you feel around them. Do you feel tense or relaxed? Do you trust them? Analyze your feelings and choose correctly.
If you’re also sensitive about the gender of your orthopedic, do not hesitate to choose one from the gender you prefer.
Lastly, choose an orthopedic who is easily accessible in case an emergency occurs.
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Cost of Spine Surgery
If you’re under insurance, you may want to call your insurance company and confirm their coverage on the spine injury procedure.
The choice of your Westchester orthopedic and their spine treatment procedure will determine how much money the insurance will have to cover.
Visit several hospitals and choose one that works within your insurance coverage.
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Skilled and Highly Trained
While the number of spine surgeons in Westchester, NY, is huge, finding a highly trained and experienced one is another.
It is imperative to determine whether the orthopedic is trained and experienced in spine surgery. Please find out how many years they have performed spine surgery and whether they have the required certification.
Finally, it is not only essential to know that your doctor is a certified orthopedic in Westchester, NY, but is board certified in back pain and spine treatment.
Find out whether they are a member of the appropriate organizations of orthopedics in Westchester. It is vital to research the orthopedic surgeon’s credentials.
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Right Hospital Affiliations
The orthopedic you choose does not work alone but has a team of Westchester healthcare providers working by their side. This can be in a hospital or a minor surgical center.
Carry out research about the facility and determine whether it is a reputable center of excellence. The team, too, should be qualified and highly skilled.
Also, make sure that the facility’s equipment is the latest and is also top-notch.
The quality of the facility matters because patients at top-rated hospitals have lower rates of getting complications after spine surgery.
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Communication Skills
It would be best if you considered picking an orthopedic with whom you can comfortably communicate. Choose an orthopedic who listens to you and your needs and supports your information.
Your spine surgeon should be interested in getting to know you, consider how you prefer to be treated, and respect your privacy.
When you meet your orthopedic for the first time, observe whether they are good at answering your questions and whether they will rush your conversation.
A good orthopedic will welcome all your questions and answer them in a friendly way that you can understand.
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Follow-up care Routine.
How you handle yourself after successful spine surgery is what determines how long your recovery period will take.
The orthopedic should be able to give you guidelines for follow-up care. This way, you will be guaranteed to have a smooth and speedy recovery.
Questions to Ask Your Orthopedic
By choosing a spine surgeon in Westchester, NY, you’re working with highly experienced doctors.
Below are some questions that you can ask your Westchester Orthopedic on your first meeting to determine whether they are a perfect fit.
- What makes you stand out?
- What are the spine surgery procedures and treatments?
- What is your approach to minimally invasive spine surgery and open spine injury?
- Can I count on you?
- Are you certified by the Westchester, NY orthopedics Board?
- What are the risks of this spine surgery procedure?
- What foods and routine practices should I avoid during the healing period?
- Is my medical history in any way causing these spine problems?
- What happens during the treatment period?
When Should I Consider Back Surgery
Learning that you need spinal surgery can stir up many emotions. This is why we have friendly doctors to guide you through every step. Our spinal clinic in Westchester, NY, is fully equipped and adequately staffed, so our patients get the best care possible.
According to the National Institutes of Health, the following conditions may require surgical treatment:
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated or ruptured disk
- Spondylolisthesis
- Vertebral fractures
- Degenerative disk disease
There are some rare cases where surgery may be recommended.
What Are The Risks Of Spine Surgery?
Spine surgery can be risky because it is closer to the nervous system. Worst case scenarios are paralysis or infections. When surgery is successful, the patient is also expected to spend some time in recovery. Depending on the type of surgery and your pre-surgery condition, post-surgery recovery can stretch into months. There is also a possibility that you lose some flexibility permanently.
Conditions NJSO Can Treat
The surgeons and spinal specialists at NJSO can treat many conditions that affect the spine and adjacent structures. The following are some of the more common conditions or issues we can treat:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Scoliosis
- Sprains and strains
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers or other extremities
- Tendonitis
- Back, spine, or neck pain
- Dysplasia
- Compression fractures
We treat numerous conditions in our offices, and we have extensive experience and confidence. For a more detailed description of issues we can help you with, please feel free to visit our website.
Treatments Offered by NJSO
NJSO can offer many treatments for many conditions, as several issues do not have only one procedural or medical answer. These treatments are largely minimally invasive and reduce pain. The following are some of the most common options we offer:
- Anti-inflammatory injections
- Prescription medication
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic care
- Balloon kyphoplasty
- Arthroscopy
- Fusion
- Barricaid
- Joint and disc replacement
We also offer many other treatment options, and we would be happy to narrow down a list of actions that would work best for your lifestyle and needs. You can also view a more comprehensive list of treatments NJSO can offer in your time of need.
How to Get a Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis for your condition can help in several ways, including giving you more access to helpful treatments and procedures that can reduce the presence of pain and other negative symptoms. During the diagnosis process, you will need to get an assessment from a spine specialist or doctor. Your provider may collect DNA samples for testing, perform a physical exam, or get imaging done.
To avoid unnecessary hassle, you can work directly with a spinal specialist for your assessment. The surgeons and specialists at NJSO are incredibly accurate, and they can help you speed up the healing process by allowing you to avoid unnecessary referrals and hurdles. After a diagnosis has been made, you and your doctor can discuss treatment options that will best serve your needs and lifestyle. To schedule an assessment, please contact our team at your convenience.
Tips for Preventing Back Pain in Westchester, NY
Depending on the reason for your back pain, you may be able to take steps to mitigate it. Just a few adjustments to the way you move and regard your body may help with back discomfort.
Pay Attention to Your Body
Listen to your body when it comes to back pain. If you’re in pain, don’t try to engage in your average level of activity. Prioritize comfort and give your body a chance to heal.
Move Around
When it comes to physical activity, please don’t overdo it. However, some movements can be beneficial. For instance, light stretching can sometimes help to mitigate discomfort. Before you do so, however, make an appointment with a back specialist to ensure that you don’t have a more serious issue that might worsen with movement.
Rely on Ergonomically Correct Furnishings and Physical Positioning
For instance, if you sit in a chair for most of the day, make sure the one you use is ergonomically correct and supports good posture. The same rule applies to any table or desk that you might use during the workday.
Sit with flat feet, and your knees bent 90 degrees to minimize back discomfort. Try to sit with your back straight up and shoulders back when possible. The more you slouch or sit on soft surfaces, the more likely you are to experience back-related discomfort.
How to Manage Back, Neck, or Spine Pain
There are many different ways to reduce and manage pain you might experience, including surgical and non-surgical options at your disposal. By working with your doctor and supplementing additional care at home, you can regain control of your life and well-being. The following are potential ways to reduce and manage back, neck, and spine pain:
- Yoga and regular exercise
- Changing your diet to include anti-inflammatory foods
- Losing weight with doctor’s guidance
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Prescription medication
- Physical and companion therapies
- Minimally invasive spinal surgeries
- Anti-inflammatory injections
- Acupuncture or acupressure
For more information about your options to reduce and manage your pain, we encourage you to work with your doctor or a spine specialist in your area.
Get Valuable Help and Pain Relief From NJSO
Our Orthopedic surgeons in Westchester, NY, are highly experienced and top-rated. They provide efficient treatment and comprehensive medical care and support to all their patients.
Choosing an orthopedic surgeon is a personal choice, and it is essential to carry out as much research as possible to find one who works for you.
Lastly, choose wisely. You can never go wrong with personal preference.