Date Published: April/May 2013
Author: Max W. Cohen, MD, FAAOS

You’re relocating boxes in the garage when you feel a sudden catch in your back – and can’t move an inch without pain. Or perhaps that persistent twinge developed after you went a little overboard in lifting weights at the gym. Or maybe you simply moved in an awkward position when you picked up your crying toddler. Whatever the cause of the back or neck injury, you likely will be struggling to decide your next step if the pain doesn’t go away – or even intensifies.

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Date Published:  Dec 2012/Jan 2013
Author:  S. Michael Tooke, MD, FRCSC

Maybe you’re having trouble buttoning your jacket. Or perhaps you occasionally have the “dropsies,” watching in amazement as a cup or a tool slips from your hands. Or maybe your husband says you’re walking funny.

If so, chances are the last thing you would expect to find is that you have a problem so serious it could lead to paralysis. But the symptoms above – and other vague complaints that usually do not include pain – are classic signs of a serious condition called spinal cord compression.

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Date Published: June/July 2012
Author: S. Michael Tooke, MD, FRCSC

Did you know that spinal compression fractures are more common than hip fractures in osteoporosis patients?

If you or someone you know has osteoporosis, you’re probably aware that people with osteoporosis are prone to suffering hip fractures. But did you know they also have an increased risk for spinal and pelvic fractures?

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Date Published: August/September 2014
Author: Thomas R. Saullo, MD

Do You Have New or Worsening Back or Neck Pain?
Spinal Injections May Offer Relief

Back and neck problems are a very common medical issue for people of all ages. Even with proper treatment, many peo-ple continue to have pain, which sometimes radiates into their legs or arms. Often, these patients are not aware of an advanced pain-relieving procedure that may help them – a fluoroscopy-guided spinal injection, specifically targeting the source of the discomfort. 

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Date Published: October/November 2013
Author:  Max W. Cohen, MD, FAAOS

Low back pain is a common problem as people age. However, it has been esti -mated that up to 25% of all pain in the lower back is actually caused by problems with the sacroiliac (SI) joint. SI joint pain often mimics the symptoms of low back pain. As a result, physicians frequently overlook the diagnosis of sacroiliac joint disease.

The SI joint, located in the pelvis, links the iliac bone (pelvis) to the sacrum (lowest part of the spine above the tailbone). This joint transfers weight and forces between the up-per body and the legs. It is essential for shock absorption, helping to prevent impact forces during walking from reaching the spine. It is stabilized by a network of ligaments and muscles, which also limitmoti on.

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