Nothing is more personal than the impact that change in mobility has on one’s life, but there is reason for hope. Dr. Smith is a top, board-certified spine surgeon who specializes in cutting-edge treatments of degenerative spinal conditions, traumas and complex deformity reconstruction.
Known for his optimism and positive outcomes, he is admired among his peers for his vast knowledge, his extensive expertise, and his commitment to compassion for his patients. More than a doctor, he is a true ally for his patient’s spinal health journey — and an advocate for a patient-first approach.
Cervical spine disorders target the vertebrae in the neck, and discs between each vertebrae and/or joints, muscles, and ligaments. These structures in the spine may degenerate over time, or quickly become less viable due to injury. Coordination may be affected by certain cervical spine conditions, and pain and numbness are also common symptoms.
Areas that are affected between the collarbone and the twelfth rib, are generally defined as thoracic conditions. Discomfort can occur when blood vessels or nerves are compressed in this region, and some common symptoms include shoulder and mid back pain, numbness or tingling around the torso, and coordination or balance changes. Thoracic conditions cause pain that can vary from a dull ache to a stabbing pain and are often associated with: stiff muscles, fatigue, spasms or weakness.
Typically, lumbar conditions occur in the lower back, in the area of the spine that begins below the ribcage. Most often these conditions are caused by straining the back and not fully supporting the back’s alignment when lifting or moving something heavy. Because the lumbar area of the back supports the weight of the upper body, and is involved in twisting and bending, it is easy to have injuries resulting from moving in an irresponsible way with the spine. The most common lumbar conditions are caused by sprains, strains, herniated or bulging discs, or a fractured vertebrae. Some general symptoms of lumbar conditions are back or leg pain, numbness and/or tingling, muscle weakness, or bladder/bowel control changes.
There are several less common spinal conditions that cause pain but can also be treated and improved. Some of these conditions can be treated without the need for surgery but the best option for a pain-free future requires an in-depth analysis of your condition. There are a number of symptoms related to a wide variety of spinal conditions and/or traumas that may signal that something more serious is wrong.
Some of these symptoms include: loss or change of sensation, loss of motion, loss of urine or bowel control, tingling or numbness in the extremities, pressure or stiffness in the back, pain, exaggerated or diminished reflexes, muscle spasms, weakness, difficulty walking, balance issues, breathing issues, or an unnatural posture in the back or neck.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, reach out to Dr. Jeremy Smith, M.D. to get the support you need in gaining a better understanding of the underlying issue causing these problems.
CATHERINE JOHNSON • LAGUNA BEACH, CA