Deuk Spine Institute - Laser Spine Surgery Center Blog

Deuk Spine Institute - Laser Spine Surgery

Covid-19 Precautions Update

March 24, 2020

The health of our patients and employees is our highest priority; therefore, we are taking Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Department of Health (DOH) recommended steps to ensure the health, safety and welfare of our employees and patients.

The DOH and CDC issued guidance that individuals, including healthcare workers, must limit their interactions with others for a minimum of 14 days after returning from travel if they have traveled to a (CDC) designated Level III country (Western Europe, Iceland, South Korea, China or Iran), or have been on a cruise.

Any patient, who has traveled to or from an affected geographic area with widespread community transmission, particularly if traveling to a highly populated area where there is an outbreak, should monitor their health.

We require that our patients must be without symptoms of fever of 100.4 or higher, a cough with fever, or shortness of breath, in order to maintain their appointment. If you have these symptoms we will reschedule your appointment two weeks out and reassess prior to the next appointment.

Here are a few ways we are working to keep our offices safe:

- Temperatures are being taken for all patients, visitors, staff, and vendors, who walk into our office.
- Patients are pre-screened prior to their appointment.
- Our facilities are wiped down frequently throughout the day with medical-grade sanitizers and antibacterial agents.
- We practice universally accepted protocols for sanitizing and sterilizing instruments for every patient.
- At this time, our Viera and Titusville offices remain open for patient care during our regular business hours, Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm. All scheduled surgeries, in-office procedures, clinics and MRI's are proceeding as planned.


Effective March 23rd we are asking patients who normally go to our Titusville office to make arrangements to come to our Viera office, for their scheduled appointments next week.

Our team is closely monitoring updates from health officials and taking all extra precautions to safeguard the health of our patients.

Deuk Spine Institute - What It Means to Me

June 28, 2019

We asked all of our employees a simple question: "What does Deuk Spine Institute mean to you?". You've heard many of their answers already, but we wanted to share a few more here with you today.

What Working at Deuk Spine Institute Means To Me

May 17, 2019

We asked all of our employees a simple question: "What does Deuk Spine Institute Mean To You?" You've seen what several of our employees have said already, and we wanted to share a few more stories with you today.

What does Deuk Spine Institute Mean To Me?

April 05, 2019

We asked all of our employees a simple question: "What does Deuk Spine Institute Mean To You?" We have shared several answers we received with you already, and we'd like to take the time to share a few more here today.

Deuk Spine Institute Is Ready To Provide Assistance To Former Laser Spine Institute Patients

March 11, 2019

If you or someone you know is a prospective or former patient at Laser Spine Institute, we want you to know that there is still hope, and you can still achieve lasting pain relief. At Deuk Spine Institute, our dedicated team of physicians specialize in all kinds of neck and back pain procedures that provide meaningful pain relief. From rhizotomies and steroid injections to cutting-edge minimally invasive laser surgery, we are industry leaders in curing all kinds of neck and back pain. 

Federal Judge Rules Against Insurance Giant For Putting Profits Above Patient Health

March 08, 2019

 

What Deuk Spine Institute Means To Me - More Stories

March 01, 2019

We asked all of our employees a simple question: "What does Deuk Spine Institute Mean To Me?". We shared some of the responses we received last month, and we wanted to share another set of responses with you here today. 

Understanding Your Back Pain

February 22, 2019

Understanding Your Back Pain

What Deuk Spine Institute Means To Me

January 24, 2019

We asked all of our employees a simple question: "What does Deuk Spine Institute Mean To Me?". We wanted to share just a few of the responses we got with you here today. 

How to Prevent and Bounce Back From Work Injuries

January 16, 2019

According to OSHA, back injuries affect more than 600,000 workers a year and can cost more than 50 billion dollars each year.  In recent years there has been an increase in physically demanding jobs and we can only expect this number to continue to rise.  The risk of low back pain should and can be prevented by understanding the four basic causes of low back injuries. 

5 Tips To Prevent Back Pain while Christmas Shopping

December 10, 2018

Everyone's favorite time of the year has arrived and you just can’t push it off any longer! That’s right; it’s time to hit the stores.  So many people dread the hustle and bustle of fighting the crowds during the holiday season, but always seem to muster up the strength to get it done for the sake of their loved ones. If your least favorite part of the holidays is shopping due to your neck or back pain, here are a few tips to help out this season.

Tips To Prevent Back And Neck Pain: Stay Pain Free For The Holidays

October 31, 2018

Tips To Prevent Back And Neck Pain: Stay Pain Free For The Holidays

5 Tips To Help Reduce Back Pain

October 19, 2018

If you suffer from chronic back pain, you might be asking yourself "What can I do to get out of this pain?". We've compiled a list of five handy tips to help reduce your pain.

The Importance of Proper Posture

August 03, 2018

Did you know that sitting up straight and maintaining correct posture can help keep your back healthy and prevent chronic pain from developing throughout your life? Bad posture is a major contributing factor towards the creation of an abnormal spine alignment which can lead to many other problems later down the line. 

Chronic Neck and Back Pain Is Treatable

July 27, 2018

If you or someone you know suffer from chronic neck or back pain, you may feel like you have run out of options and that you will have to live with your pain for the rest of your life. The truth is that nearly all cases of chronic neck and back pain are treatable and the dream of a pain free life does not have to be just a dream.

Top 10 Causes of Neck and Back Pain

July 06, 2018

Neck and back pain are two of the most common types of chronic pain that affect millions of Americans each year. No matter what your background is, there is a good chance you will experience some type of neck or back pain at some point in your life. Knowing some of the most common causes can help you better prepare and possibly even prevent these issues from arising.

Six Creative Ways to Help Pay for Spine Surgery

May 31, 2018

Choosing to undergo spine surgery under the advice of our Doctors can be a monumental step towards reducing or completely eliminating your neck or back pain. After you have made the decision to go through with the procedure, you may have some questions about financing, insurance, or about the surgery itself. Our team is standing by to answer any of these questions for you over the phone (1-800-349-6922) or in person, and to help make this process as easy as possible, we’ve put together a list of 6 creative ways you can use to help pay for your spine surgery or other procedure.

Opioids: Don’t mask neck and back pain; treat it.

May 02, 2018

Treating Pain vs Masking Pain

Tiger Woods' Return From Back Surgery

March 14, 2018

Playing golf can put a lot of strain on your spine. However, if you have an existing back or neck condition, the pain can often become unbearable and prevent you from playing the game you love. Pro golfer Tiger Woods is living proof that outpatient spinal fusion can stop your pain and allow you to keep playing.

Regenerative Medicine Solutions to Chronic Back and Neck Pain 

February 21, 2018
 
Chronic back and neck pain can be debilitating. A recent study by the  National Institute of Health Statistics indicated that low back pain was the most common type of pain experienced by Americans (27%), followed by severe headache or migraine pain (15%), neck pain (15%) and facial ache or pain (4%). For many, the thought of living a life free of pain no longer exists. They either believe their pain can't be fixed or they are afraid of surgery so they allow the pain to continue untreated. What many people don't realize is that there is a non-surgical solution to chronic neck and back pain.

The Most Common Causes of Back Pain

January 30, 2018

Back pain affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate based on age, race, gender, religion or political affiliation. According to recent research by the Mayo Clinic, approximately 80% of all Americans will have low back pain at least once in their lives and is the second most common cause of disability worldwide. Back pain is also one of the most common reasons for missed work and the second most common reason for visits to the doctor’s office, behind only upper-respiratory infections. Americans spend at least $50 Billion each year on back pain alone. In order to understand and treat back pain, we must be able to pinpoint the causes. Here are six culprits for most back and neck pain and they are more common than you may think.

I Have My MRI Report But What Does It Mean?

January 04, 2018

 

If you are injured or develop pain in your back, neck or joints, your primary care physician, the ER physician at a hospital, or an urgent care doctor may recommend you have an MRI. About 30,000 MRI scans are performed every year, many of those of the back, neck and joints. At Deuk Spine Institute, we're able to perform MRI scans right here in our facility.

Here are our Top 5 New Year's Resolutions to Reduce Back Pain

December 19, 2017

 

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

December 04, 2017

The world of spine care is vast and complex, leading patients down many different paths, each dependent on a mixture of the physician and patient’s preferences. Because of how varied this landscape is, we run into patients who tell us horror stories of past experiences at other spine clinics. Failed Back Surgery Syndrome or FBSS,  leaves patients in more pain and depression than before surgery and unfortunately has occured in about twenty percent of the patients we see in clinic.  Whether the wrong surgery has been performed, adjacent segment disease has taken place, or the surgeon has failed to address specific issues, patients shoulder a tremendous load mentally, emotionally and physically. We want to ease that load. We want to be a patient's beacon of hope that says life can and will get better.

Solutions for Coal Miners Seeking Lower Back Pain Relief

November 15, 2017

 

4 Ways Severe Neck and Back Pain Affects Your Life

October 25, 2017

Sufferers of severe neck and back pain often go years with over-the-counter medications or short-term treatments offered by the insurance companies before reaching a breaking point and seeking new back pain solutions. The affects of this back pain can steal the joy out of daily life and make normal activities difficult.

The American Chiropractors Association estimates that up to 31 million Americans experience issues with neck and back pain each year. We talked to Don, a resident of Orlando, Florida, about his neck and back pain, how it impacted life, and the steps he took to finally get relief..

Top 5 Tips to Stay Healthy

October 05, 2017

As we welcome our new primary care physician, Trevan Rankin, to Deuk Spine and Viera Health and Wellness we are releasing this small guide to help you stay healthy this flu season.

Get Back to Work Faster with Deuk Laser Disc Repair

September 28, 2017

How Posture Affects Your Spinal Health

September 21, 2017

"Sit up straight" something we have all heard at least once in our life, but how important could this little piece of advice really be? Very. The positioning of your spine is an extremely influential factor when it comes to the health of your neck and back. Poor posture can create abnormal spine alignment and result in years of problems.

After Irma

September 15, 2017

Irma was a disastrous hurricane and many people have been left without internet, power, and maybe even their homes. We know that this is a very difficult time as everyone recovers from Irma's devastation and want to make sure that all our patients are safe and getting the treatment they need.  That's why we are now open again following the hurricane and are ready to treat what afflicts you. 

Preparing For Hurricane Irma

September 06, 2017

Here at Deuk Spine Institute we want to make sure our patients stay safe during the upcoming Hurricane Irma, so we put together this list on how to prepare and some suggestions on what to do for the upcoming hurricane.

You May Not Need Back or Neck Surgery

August 31, 2017

 

Surgery, the one word that either scares people away, or is what they believe they need to cure their debilitating back or neck pain. Surgery is not always the answer and should be considered a last resort. At Deuk Spine Institute our goal is to get a patient out of pain, not force them to undergo expensive surgical procedures that may not be right for them. We believe that every patient deserves freedom from pain as soon as possible by offering patients the treatment that is best for their condition.  

Surgery Center of Viera Accredited by AAAHC

August 23, 2017

The team at Surgery Center of Viera is pleased to announce that we have recently been re-accredited for 3 years by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC).  Acquiring accreditation shows our commitment to providing the highest levels of quality in our business practices and is a true testament to the quality care that we deliver to our Deuk Spine Institute and Surgery Center of Viera patients. Achieving accreditation by AAAHC verifies that we have not only met, but exceeded the rigorous standards of a nationally-recognized organization that has been surveying, critiquing and accrediting ambulatory surgery centers since 1979. Accreditation distinguishes this surgery center from many other outpatient facilities by providing the highest quality of care to its patients as determined by an independent, external process of evaluation.

What do the Words on an MRI Mean?

August 18, 2017

If you are injured or develop pain in your back, neck or joints, your primary care physician, the ER physician at a hospital, or an urgent care doctor may recommend you have an MRI. About 30,000 MRI scans are performed every year, many of those of the back, neck and joints. At Deuk Spine Institute, we're able to perform MRI scans right here in our facility.

Don't Let an Auto Accident Slow You Down

August 10, 2017

Whether its at a stop sign, the middle of an intersection, or just in the parking lot, vehicular accidents can always lead to horrific neck and back pain. Pain that will limit your life and lead to suffering. Luckily for everyone there is a solution. Through treatment from our Board Certified Medical Doctors, pain can be a thing of the past.

Did You Know Your Headaches and Other Pain Can be Coming from Your Spine?

July 31, 2017

While there are many different causes of chronic migraines  such as inflammation, blood flow issues, infections like meningitis, or intercrainial pressure, one cause most overlooked is a herniated disc. A herniated disc or bulging disc occurs when disc degeneration or injury allows the disc to expand outside its normal bounds, causing it to come in contact with nerves running along the spine.

Don't Be a Victim of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

July 28, 2017

John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the thirty fifth president of the United States, was one of the most famous, yet one of the most unknown sufferers of chronic back pain. According to the Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, chronic lower back pain had an impact on the life and especially the death of the 35th president.

Don't Settle for a Life of Pain

July 20, 2017

Back and neck pain are the most common sources of chronic pain in the world, yet people choose to live with this pain instead of taking care of it. Some don't want to spend the time getting it looked at while others just chalk it up to old age. No matter what you believe the cause of your chronic back or neck pain is, you should always seek a pain free life and never settle for less.

Top 5 Reasons for Your Neck and Back Pain

July 10, 2017

It creaks in the night. It stops you dead in your tracks. You can't leave home because it is out there, waiting for you.  It will take you in the night when you make your next strenuous move. Your fear of recurring back or neck pain has left you a recluse, shut away, unable to interact with society.

Is There an Age Limit on Spine Surgery?

July 05, 2017

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Should Insurance Companies be Choosing Your Treatment?

June 26, 2017

Recently the Florida Medical Association (FMA) president, Ralph Nobo, M.D. addressed one of the biggest issues facing physicians today, Insurance companies. Physicians are constantly asking themselves if a patient’s insurance company will let the patient have the care that is best for them and ultimately pursue the course of action laid out by the physician. Insurance companies are focused more on reducing their own costs than providing care. As a result, they are creating hoops patients have to jump through to receive the quality care they deserve.

Strain vs Herniated Disc Symptom Checklist, Treatments

June 15, 2017

“It’s just a strain. I’ll be fine.” How many times do we hear those words when someone winces in pain from picking up something heavy or instinctively grabs their lower back while crouching after a work related or athletic mishap? It’s a fairly common sentiment to a fairly common condition. However, sometimes it’s not just a strain. It could be a herniated disc, which a little more serious. This begs the question, “What’s the difference, and how do I treat my symptoms appropriately?”

The Ten Most Common Causes of Back and Neck Pain

June 06, 2017

Back and neck pain constitute some of the most common reasons for disability, missed work, and downright miserable days and nights for millions of Americans. Fortunately, the medical industry has made great strides in treating many of the problems associated with a bad back or a literal pain in the neck. Consider the following list of the ten most common causes of back and neck pain to gain a better understanding of how these things can happen to anyone, anytime, and potentially avoid them whenever possible.

How Laser Spine Surgery Could Help This Wounded Warrior

May 08, 2017

A little nick or two here and there when you’re shaving in the morning is fine. You might apply a styptic pencil if the cut just won’t stop bleeding, but in most cases, you’re going to just slap on the aftershave, shrug it off, and go to work. Not all nicks that the human body can endure are the same, however. For instance, if that tiny nick occurs to the membrane surrounding the spinal cord during back surgery, no styptic pencil or aftershave in the world is going to help.

Exercises for Degenerative Disc Disease

May 01, 2017

Some of us are truly blessed with extraordinary genetics when we enter this world. Those people are born tall and slender, have exceptional athletic ability, and an adaptable mindset that seems to be capable of anything from being a champion thumb wrestler to a world-renowned brain surgeon. Well, this article isn’t for those people …

Is Surgery the Only Option for a Herniated Disc?

April 24, 2017

A herniated disc can result from injury or age-related degeneration. Conservative options should always be considered before jumping right into the surgical procedure, especially when it comes to something like a herniated disc.

What Causes Bone Spurs of the Back and Neck?

April 17, 2017

There’s a common misconception in the public eye about bone spurs of the back and neck. Quite often they’re wrongly blamed for a dull and consistent pain that radiates into the shoulders and potentially, all the way down the lower spine into the thigh area. In reality, bone spurs should usually be considered the symptom more than the actual cause of the pain.

5 Best Options for Pain Relief for a Ruptured Disc

April 10, 2017

Pain from a herniated disc, often called a ruptured disc, can range from mild and nagging, all the way to severe and debilitating. This condition occurs when one of the discs between the vertebrae in your back moves slightly out of alignment and begins rubbing on one of the surrounding nerves. What happens next is the body’s injury alert system takes over—the nerves send a message to the brain that something is wrong. In other words, pain occurs. Consider following the recommendations below.

Is Laser Spine Surgery Safe?

April 03, 2017

Is minimally invasive laser spine surgery safe? Until recently, people suffering from back pain that required surgical intervention usually had to go through an invasive procedure that involved drilling into the source of pain, which negatively affected large amounts of bone and tissue around the problem area. Therefore, this procedure is usually followed by a lengthy hospital stay and recovery period, which translates to significant time missed from work, family, and other activities.

 

How Laser Surgery Changed Rob Gronkowsk's Life

March 27, 2017

Rob Gronkowski, aka “Gronk,” is no stranger to injury: So far in his professional career, Gronk has suffered two broken forearms (the same one twice), a torn ACL, and two separate back injuries, as well as a variety of other contusions, pulled muscles, and all the not-so-normal aches and pains associated with playing professional football. It’s also worth noting that all this has happened in just a six-year NFL career thus far.

Deuk Spine Institute Helps You Get Back to Work

March 20, 2017

They can happen while playing a pickup game of basketball, while driving your car to visit friends, or on the job—they’re performance limiting neck and back injuries. What happens when one of these seemingly innocuous activities leads to a severely pulled muscle or a literal pain in the neck, and they cause you to miss work?

Free from Back Pain: Jack’s Story

March 15, 2017

When lower back pain stops you from living life the way you want, it’s time to seek expert medical care. Take a look at how Dr. Deuk at Deuk Spine Institute helped Jack Spadaro, an 80-year-young gentleman in Florida get back to his active lifestyle with a simple procedure and no post-operative pain medication. With a little help from Dr. Deuk, people much younger than Jack are amazed at everything he is able to do.

How Your Desk Job Is Causing Back Pain

March 13, 2017


It’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it. Even though you risk physical injury and increasing levels of pain to your body every morning that you leave for work, your dedication to your craft remains proudly steadfast.

Sacroiliitis Treatments - What is Sacroiliitis and Symptoms

March 06, 2017

 

“I’ll take medical terminology for $400, Alex.”

“Derived from the latin suffix ‘–itis,’ which means inflammation, combined with the term for the joints located at the base of the lower spine called the sacroiliac joints, this relatively common condition causes discomfort, stiffness, and pain in the lower back and buttocks.”  

BMAC Treatment an Alternative for Back Pain and Joint Pain: Bone Marrow Aspiration Concentrate

February 27, 2017



Recent developments in regenerative medicine are offering a great deal of promise for people looking for an alternative to more traditional procedures related to everything from heart disease and neurological conditions to the restoration of damaged muscles, tendons, and tissues commonly associated with lower back and joint ailments.

Chronic Lower Back Pain: Is it a Strain or Something More Serious?

February 20, 2017

Common causes of lower back pain include improper lifting, poor posture, and perhaps the biggest culprit … old age. Any one of these can result in an injury to a lower back muscle, resulting in what’s commonly referred to as a strain. Such a minor injury is likely to go away within a relatively short period of time—usually a few days.

Top Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options

February 16, 2017

“It’s no fun getting old.” How often do we hear someone in their 50s, and 60s utter those words of despair as they instinctively reach for their lower back in a momentary grimace of agonizing pain? Unfortunately, it’s an all too familiar occurrence because as we age the spine can become more and more cantankerous to deal with. For those with ongoing discomfort, spinal stenosis can be the culprit. Today we review review the best spinal stenosis treatments, so you can get back to enjoying life without grimacing in pain.

Exercise Recommendations for Treatment of Degenerative Disc Disease

February 13, 2017

Tennis anyone? How about golf, racquetball, or even bowling if the weather’s bad? As we age, most of us make the gradual transition into one of these activities from more rigorous ones like football, basketball, or hockey because they take less of a physical toll on the body, while still providing some of the many health benefits associated with recreational activity.

How is Sciatica Treated with Laser Surgery?

January 30, 2017

Sciatica is a painful condition that can develop gradually or just suddenly appear. Often, it can be best described as an excruciating, shooting pain from your lower back, through your buttock, and down your leg. Sometimes you might also feel an uncomfortable numbness, tingling or burning sensation down your leg that may extend into your toes. The pain from sciatica makes it almost impossible to sit or stand comfortably.

Can the Right Pillow Reduce Neck Pain?

January 23, 2017

According to the Harvard Medical School, the answer is yes; the right pillow can reduce neck pain. While you might not be able to control other factors, such as age-related wear and tear, sleeping with the right pillow can help reduce your neck pain.

Am I too Old for Laser Spine Surgery?

January 16, 2017

 All surgeries carry a certain amount of risk of complications, especially for older adults. The risks related to laser spine surgery are often less than those associated with traditional open back surgery. Because laser surgery is minimally invasive and doesn’t use strong anesthesia, it is suitable for all age groups, especially older adults who are not candidates for open back surgery.

Weight Loss Can Reduce Your Back Pain, But What is the Pain Remains?

January 09, 2017

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of adults in the United States suffer from obesity. Being overweight puts you at a greater risk for many health issues including back pain. If you have back problems and are overweight or obese, your doctor will usually recommend reducing your weight as part of your individualized treatment plan.

5 New Year's Resolutions to Reduce Back Pain

January 02, 2017

It’s a new year and a new beginning! Have you thought about the resolutions you will be making for the coming year?

If you suffer from back pain, you may want to consider the following these five changes that could help reduce or end back pain and improve your quality of life.

Why Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Has a Shorter Recovery Time

December 26, 2016

 

We are often asked, “How long is the recovery period for laser spine surgery?” One of the greatest benefits of laser spine surgery is that it has a shorter recovery time than other more traditional types of back surgery.

Help! My Back Hurts When I Sit

December 19, 2016

If your back hurts when you sit, you're not alone. Many people experience lower back pain from sitting at a desk all day or from driving for long periods. While you might feel like your body is resting because you are not on your feet, your spine would beg to differ. While you sit, almost every muscle in your body relaxes but the ones that stop you from falling forward or to the side. The result is that extra pressure is placed on your lumbar discs.

Ten Questions to Ask Your Laser Spine Surgeon

December 12, 2016

The idea of having spine surgery can be very disconcerting. As a candidate for laser spine surgery, you might have fewer worries than with traditional open back surgery, but you will still have some questions before your procedure.

Acute vs. Chronic Neck Pain: What's the Difference?

December 05, 2016

Doctors and medical professionals often use terms like acute and chronic to describe types of pain in the neck, but what do these terms mean? We share what the difference is between these two medical terms here. 

You know the sudden pain when you burn your finger on a hot pot, hit your thumb with a hammer or even suffer a paper cut? The pain that you immediately feel when you injure yourself is normal, expected and important. Acute pain is sudden and can be considered as your body’s way of alerting you that something is wrong. It makes you stop for a moment, realize what you are doing and prevents you from continuing with the action that caused you pain. However, when you experience pain on a continual basis, such as chronic pain in your neck, this is not normal.

Is Your Lower Back Pain Caused by a Herniated Disc?

November 28, 2016

Up to 80 percent of people will suffer from pain in their lower back at one time during their adult lives. It is not uncommon for lower back pain to be caused by a herniated disc in the lumbar area. Also referred to as a “slipped disc,” this condition can cause the leg pain that is associated with sciatica.

Supporting a Loved-One Through Back Pain and Surgery

November 21, 2016

It is difficult to see a spouse or family member struggling with back pain and the fears they may have about undergoing spinal surgery. As that person’s primary caregiver and source of support, you might feel overwhelmed at times assisting your loved one with various tasks or having to take on additional responsibilities.

5 Things to Know About Recovery From Laser Spine Surgery

November 14, 2016

One of the major reasons patients choose laser spine surgery is because it offers a faster recovery time than traditional open back surgery. However, you must keep in mind that it is indeed surgery and there are certain things that you should know about the recovery process.

What is Spinal Degenerative Disease and How is it Treated?

November 07, 2016

If you’ve been told that the back or neck pain that you are experiencing is from spinal degenerative disease, you might be initially confused because the term can refer to one of several conditions that affect the spine. The conditions that fall under the category of spinal degenerative disease may be caused by normal wear and tear that is associated with aging. However, some patients might experience premature wear and tear because of activities that have put more strain on their backs or necks.

What You Need to Know About Arthroscopic Spine Surgery

October 31, 2016

First, there was joint FUSION.
Then came joint REPLACEMENT.

Now, finally, Arthroscopic Surgery has replaced the vast majority of joint fusions and artificial joints. Today, arthroscopic surgery is the most common and least invasive treatment for painful knee, shoulder and hip joints.

How to Strengthen Your Lower Back to Reduce Pain

October 24, 2016

When you have lower back pain, you might feel that the best thing you can do to reduce your pain is to rest. However, that will not put you on the best road to recovery. It is in your best interest to keep moving. It might seem counterintuitive to exercise, but it is one of the best things you can do to relieve your pain. By focusing on strengthening your core muscles, your lower back will benefit from added support, which will reduce your lower back pain.

What is Endoscopic Laser Spine Surgery?

October 17, 2016

Endoscopic laser spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure to treat injuries and disorders of the spine. Using an endoscope that is inserted through a small incision, a surgeon is able to view the affected area of the spine on a television screen within the operating room. Additional small incisions are made to accommodate micro-instruments that are used to make the needed repairs to the spine. This method of surgery eliminates the need for large incisions that require stitches or surgical staples and take a long time to heal.

Laser Spine Surgery Recovery Times and Tips

October 10, 2016

It is common to have questions about the expected recovery time for laser spine surgery. Many patients say that they feel great immediately after laser spine surgery. While you may not feel the pain you had previously, you still need a period of recovery to allow your body to heal properly.  It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions during laser spine surgery recovery to avoid reinjury or other complications. 

Best Core Strengthening Exercises for Lower Back Pain

October 03, 2016

Strengthening your core with exercise can prevent injuries that cause lower back pain from occurring. However, did you know that some of these exercises could also help heal and relieve your lower back pain? Having a strong core helps support the weight of your body and helps protect both your neck and back from having to pick up the slack if your core is weak. The muscles that are targeted in core strengthening exercises are located in your abdominal, back, and gluteal areas.

Don’t Let the Pain Prevent You From Playing Golf!

September 26, 2016

Playing golf can put a lot of strain on your spine. However, if you have an existing back or neck condition, the pain can often become unbearable and prevent you from playing the game you love. This does not have to happen to you. Pro golfer Marco Dawson is living proof that laser spine surgery can stop your pain and allow you to keep playing.

Stop the Pain, Live Life Again - Laser Spine Surgery Patient Stories

September 19, 2016

As a joke, we often refer to someone or something that is annoying as a “pain in the neck.” However, it is no joke if you are really suffering from chronic neck pain. It can prevent you from participating in activities you enjoy and affect your normal daily routine. However, you can stop the pain and perhaps find a new adventure in life just like Ronald, Susan, and Tracy have.

Is Back Pain Ruining Your Retirement?

September 12, 2016

You have worked hard all your life. Now that you are retired, you have more time to devote to the activities you enjoy like golf, traveling or just keeping up with your grandkids. If you are experiencing lower back pain, you might not be enjoying your retirement as much as you had expected. Chronic back pain may hinder your ability to do the things you want to do.

You Don’t Have to Live in Pain

September 06, 2016

You live life as an adventure. Going through life with chronic neck or back pain can really take a toll on a person. When the pain starts affecting your outlook on life because you are sidelined from the activities you enjoy, it's time to get your life back.

Get Your Adventure Back - Spine Surgery Recovery Stories

August 29, 2016

Car accidents can cause neck and back pain for months or even years. If you have pain from an accident, know that their is hope. These patients suffered accident related spinal injuries, Deuk Spine Institute's laser spine surgery helped them recover and get back to adventure and living life. Review this spine surgery recovery stories, and contact us at 1-800-FIX-MY-BACK if you have questions.

You have worked hard all your life and have finally reached the stage where you can relax a bit and enjoy the activities you love to do. However, if chronic back or neck pain has robbed you of the enjoyment of being able to do those things, it is time to do something about it and get your adventure back. Laser spine surgery can be the answer you are looking for that will allow you to return your normal activities without the risks of going through a major surgical procedure and the lengthy recovery period that goes along with it.

3 Level Cervical Laser Surgery: I Feel Like A New Man! – Randy’s Story

August 22, 2016

After an accident, Randy suffered from extreme pain. He and his wife loved traveling in their RV, but the constant pain was getting worse and it looked as if they may have to give up their adventurous life. Instead of giving in to the pain, they decided to see if there was any way Randy could return to a healthy life. They reached out to Deuk Spine Institute and now Randy and his wife, have their adventure back!

Back to the Basics: Sciatica 101

August 15, 2016

What Is Sciatica?

More than half of Americans will experience sciatica in their lifetime. Usually occurring between the ages of 45 and 64, sciatica symptoms are characterized by low back pain that radiates into the legs and feet and is often accompanied by numbness and tingling in the feet and toes.

90% of sciatica cases are the result of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine, or lower back, that causes compression of the nerve root resulting in the odd symptoms such as the numb or tingling toes. Other risk factors for sciatica include excess body weight, height, mental stress, diabetes, prolonged sitting, smoking, and occupational factors such as driving and high physical activity such as bending and twisting.

Spinal Osteoarthritis: Causes and Treatments

August 08, 2016

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease where the cartilage that acts as a cushion to the tops of bones wears down. As a result, swelling and pain occur. When spinal osteoarthritis develops, the cartilage breaks down in the discs and joints in the neck and lower back. Often, bone spurs may develop that cause additional problems as they press against nerves that lead to the arms or legs from the spinal column, causing pain and weakness.

Common Causes & Solutions for Lower Back Pain While Standing

August 01, 2016

A common symptom of lower back injury or strain is feeling pain when standing. You may be inclined to avoid standing or other physical activity; however, unless your doctor has recommended bed rest, you will want to try to continue some level of activity within reason. Becoming sedentary may work against you in your recovery because it could cause you to lose muscle tone and flexibility, which can make your lower back pain worsen.

Deuk Laser Disc Repair For Professional Athletes

July 25, 2016

Advanced Arthroscopic Spine Surgery is now available for professional athletes with herniated or bulging discs. Professional football, baseball, golfers, basketball players, and others can't afford to be off the field.

Deuk Laser Disc Repair is a minimally invasive (1/4 inch incision) fully arthroscopic surgery for curing back and neck pain coming from damaged spinal disc(s) or spinal stenosis. This minimally invasive laser spine surgery has a 95% success rate, complication rate under 1%, fast recovery and patients go home the same day.

If you are a professional athlete and have neck or back pain that is keeping you from playing at your full potential, then you need to contact Deuk Spine Institute, 1-800-FIX-MY-BACK, so you can get back in the game. Deuk Laser Disc Repair has a peer reviewed and published average pain relief of 95% with no surgical complications to date. Results are available here.

Top Tips for Preparing for Laser Spine Surgery

July 18, 2016

If non-surgical options haven’t provided you with relief from your neck or back pain, your doctor may recommend laser spine surgery as your best option to return to normal function. While laser spine surgery is less-invasive than conventional spine surgery, there are still certain preparations that you will need to go through before your surgery. Most importantly, you should discuss your options with your surgeon and ask questions about what you can expect during and after your surgery and what your expected outcome will be.

Laser Spine Surgery vs Spinal Fusion Surgery: What's the Difference?

July 11, 2016

It’s unsettling when your doctor has just informed you that you will need open spine fusion surgery to alleviate your back pain and allow you to return to your normal activities. Spinal fusion is considered one of the most invasive of all spine surgeries. It will entail permanently attaching hardware to your spine to stabilize its damaged areas. What you might not be aware of at first is that the same stabilizing results may be achieved through minimally invasive laser spine surgery.

A Definitive Guide To Laser Spine Surgery

July 05, 2016

Patients with painful spine conditions may now be candidates for laser spine surgery. Using minimally invasive techniques, surgeons can perform several different types of surgical procedures that allow patients to take advantage of faster recovery times, less pain and reduced blood loss.

Spine Problems and Lower Back Pain

June 27, 2016

back-strain.pngPain in the lumbar or lower back area can be caused by numerous reasons that stem from the lumbar spine. Problems with nerves, discs, bones, muscles or tendons in the lumbar area are generally culprits for causing lower back pain or pain that may radiate to other parts of the body. The level of pain can vary greatly from a minor dull ache to a pain that is so excruciating that even the slightest movement will bring you to your knees.

4 Common Causes of Neck Pain

June 20, 2016

If you suffer from neck pain, you already know how it can be a real pain in the neck. It can interfere with your daily activities. Your neck may feel stiff and you may have difficulties moving it. If you feel tingling, numbness or weakness down your arm or into your hand, it is possible that your nerves are compressed because of swelling or an injury. There are numerous reasons for neck pain; the trick is determining what is causing your pain and finding solutions to relieve your pain.

10 Facts to Know About Laser Spine Surgery

June 13, 2016

Looking into spine surgery for your neck or back pain?

Spine surgery can often be overwhelming and concerning. Many patients pursue  different therapies to avoid surgery for as long as they can. However, when your only option for relief is surgery it is time to learn the facts of laser spine surgery to learn if it is right for you.

7 Risk Factors For Lower Back Pain

June 06, 2016

Lower back pain can happen to anyone at any time regardless of age, level of activity or the type of work you do. The biggest risk factor for experiencing back pain is having a previous back injury that causes you to have chronic pain. However, there are certain risk factors that may make you more prone to experiencing this type of pain. Being aware of these factors could help you avoid some instances of lower back pain.

"That's The Bottom Line. He Cured My Neck Pain."

May 30, 2016
After being in a few car accidents, Tracy suffered from debilitating headaches. She eventually found some relief with the help of a pain management doctor who recommended she get an MRI on her neck. The MRI revealed that she had herniated discs in her neck. The medicine did help with the pain, but Tracy didn't want to depend on medication for relief for the rest of her life. She reached out to Deuk Spine Institute after her friend recommended them to her. Not only is Tracy no longer on pain medication, she is 100% pain free! Check out the video below to see Tracy's story!  

A Non-surgical Solution to Chronic Back and Neck Pain

May 23, 2016
 
Chronic back and neck pain can be debilitating. A recent study by the National Institute of Health Statistics indicated that low back pain was the most common type of pain experienced by Americans (27%), followed by severe headache or migraine pain (15%), neck pain (15%) and facial ache or pain (4%). For many, the thought of living a life free of pain no longer exists. They either believe their pain can't be fixed or they are afraid of surgery so they allow the pain to continue untreated. What many people don't realize is that there is a non-surgical solution to chronic neck and back pain.

Common Symptoms of Lower Back Pain and What to Do About Them

May 16, 2016

If you suffer from lower back pain, you are in good company. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NIH), 80 percent of adults will experience this type of pain sometime during their lifetime. Lower back pain may range from a constant dull ache to a sudden stabbing sensation that can cause you to drop to the floor in pain and require you to see immediate care for relief.

How to Choose the Right Neck & Spine Surgeon for You

May 09, 2016

When you first seek care for your back or neck pain, the first doctor you will see is usually your primary physician. Your doctor may then tell you that you require care from a spine surgeon. While you may be limited to spine surgeons within your managed care network, there are some things to look for when you are in the process of choosing the best one to manage your condition.

6 Common Causes of Lower Back Pain

May 02, 2016
 
Almost 80 percent of adults regularly suffer from some type of back pain. If you have ever experienced lower back pain, you know how it can have a negative impact on your life. You may be fearful to participate in physical activities because you are afraid of making the pain worse or injuring yourself more. Lack of activity may actually worsen your pain and affect your overall well-being.

Laser Spine Surgery Fact or Fiction?

April 27, 2016

Lasers have been a trendy marketing tool in the spine industry for years and this “cutting-edge” technology has been used by many institutes to reel in unsuspecting patients with neck and back pain. Although they use the word laser in the name of their company or procedure, a laser is rarely used in the actual procedure itself. These institutes and practices are only confusing the patient and ultimately hurting the facilities that, in fact, employ a laser to repair herniated discs. Particularly in the spine industry, the best minimally invasive surgical techniques are used in conjunction with a laser. Is it the laser, the surgeon or the minimally invasive technique that actually benefits the patient? The answer is Yes, Yes and Yes or all three.

Your Spine and Sports Injuries | Deuk Spine Institute

March 22, 2016

Buddy Hield intercepts the ball from the left just as Jackson infringes on his right. He pivots to cut the blocker from interrupting his drive to the basket. First to the left, then to the right; he ducks, and plunges down the court only seconds away from another victory.  With 3 seconds remaining on the clock, he braces himself for the vital shot. He jumps, shoots, and hears the tranquil “swoosh” as the ball falls through the basket. As his feet land hard on the court surface the force of his descent sends a shock through his body. His lower limbs and spine bear the burden of the descending weight increased by the gravity from his jump.  The impact is only minimally reduced by the Dr. Scholl’s shock absorbing inserts Coach prompted the team to employ this season. This constant twisting, extending, and leaping in addition to routine weight training and limited recovery time is gradually setting Buddy up for an injury to the discs within his spine.

Why are insurance companies making treatment decisions?

March 08, 2016

Recently the Florida Medical Association (FMA) president, Ralph Nobo, M.D. addressed one of the biggest issues facing Florida physicians today: Insurance companies. Physicians are constantly asking themselves if a patient’s insurance company will let the patient have the care that is best for them and ultimately pursue the course of action laid out by the physician. Insurance companies are focused more on reducing their own costs than improving care. As a direct result, they are creating barriers to quality care and much higher out-of-pocket costs for patients.

What Causes Hunchback Posture?

February 16, 2016

I am sure you have seen it before…at the grocery store an elderly woman hunched over her shopping cart? Have you ever wondered what causes this? Is it old age? Is it a congenital problem? Is it caused by an injury?

Does Cold Weather Increase Your Back and Leg Pain?

January 19, 2016

As the weather gets colder, you may start to notice a common ache in your neck, lower back or perhaps another part of your spine. Pain from previous injuries may even reoccur as the temperatures drop, leaving patients to wonder if they will suffer from pain all winter long. Understanding the correlation between cold weather and the discomfort in your back muscles and joints is important to help alleviate your pain.

Why Continuum of Care is Right for You

January 15, 2016

The continuum of care model is a concept involving a system that guides and tracks patients over time through a comprehensive array of health services spanning all levels and intensity of care. This multidisciplinary approach is both beneficial to the patient and the physician. There are so many potential solutions out there it is difficult for any one individual physician to know them all. For example, this is especially true for the chronic back and leg pain (CBLP) patient. Instead of making decisions independently, it is important to involve other specialties to be well informed on all the potential treatment options and make the best decision for the patient. The Continuum of care is not a new concept to healthcare; however, in recent years we have seen more and more healthcare providers shift to this model. Below are the top 4 ways Deuk Spine Institute demonstrates the continuum of care concept:

Smart Phones are a Pain in the Neck- Literally

January 05, 2016

When a world of information is available at your fingertips, it can be hard to pick your head up and away from your smart phone. What if I told you looking down at a cell phone is the equivalent of placing a 60-pound weight on your spine? According to new calculations, published in the journal Surgical Technology International, sixty pounds is about the equivalent weight of four bowling balls or an 8 year-old child sitting on your neck. You may not realize it, but the amount of time spent looking down at your phone can result in damage to your body and overall health. Research suggests that spinal pressure actually doubles with each inch you bend your head down. Your spine protects your nervous system, which controls and coordinates all the different functions of your body. Any misalignment of the spine can create disruption in nerve communication to your organs and tissues, causing abnormal effects that could linger for years.

A Hospital Acquired Infection Can Kill You

December 09, 2015

One of the many benefits of patients having surgeries and procedures done in an ASC (Ambulatory Surgical Center) is the low (and sometimes non-existent) infection rate. According to the most recent report by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hospital-acquired infections now affect 1 in 25 patients.

Why Back Surgery Through the Abdomen is an Outdated Technique

December 05, 2015

Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) is a major spinal fusion surgery performed through the patient’s abdominal cavity. The surgery is performed using large metal instruments with tremendous force in close proximity to major blood vessels, nerves, bladder and intestines. The surgeon must remove the diseased spinal disc and implant a metal cage into the spine which is located deep in the abdominal cavity where it is dark and often difficult to see. Injuries to blood vessels, bowel obstruction from abdominal scarring and nerve injuries are serious and frequently unanticipated complications of the surgery.

Happy Thanksgiving from Deuk Spine Institute

November 25, 2015

"Bless you"

What is Frozen Shoulder?

November 02, 2015

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a disorder in which the shoulder capsule (or the envelope) and the surrounding tissues, becomes inflamed and stiff, causing restriction of motion and chronic pain.

Find Hope After a Failed Back Surgery

October 23, 2015

The world of spine care is vast and complex, leading patients down many different paths, each dependent on a mixture of the physician and patient’s preferences. Because of how varied this landscape is, we run into patients who tell us horror stories of past experiences at other spine clinics all the time. From failed back surgeries leaving them in more pain than when they started to being depressed and seeking hope because a physician runs out of answers, patients shoulder quite a load mentally, emotionally and physically. We want to ease that load. We want to be your beacon of hope that says life can and will get better.

Don't Settle for Living With Chronic Pain

July 07, 2015

Almost all of us know what it’s like to be conflicted with back pain or neck pain, and too many of us know what it is like to be afflicted by that pain on a day-to-day basis. Sure, you could learn to live with it. You could make sacrifices in your activities to lessen the occurrence of those painful twists and excruciating bends. In the wake of your pain lies your quality of life, a glimpse of the activities you used to love and the faces of those who long for the person you used to be.

Piriformis Syndrome: Is it Lower Back Pain or a Pain in the Buttocks?

July 01, 2015

By Ara J. Deukmedjian, M.D., Board Certified Neuro-Spine Surgeon

How to Tell if it's a Strain or a Herniated Disc

June 23, 2015

A back strain is a common occurrence and can cause excruciating back pain. In fact, strains in the muscles of the back are often mistaken for worse conditions and have even led some to the emergency room. Herniated discs or other structural conditions in the spine as a result of trauma or injury are also common and in many cases require surgical intervention such as back surgery.

Your Alternative to Dangerous Prescription Painkillers

May 17, 2015

Almost 15,000 deaths occurred in the US in 2008 due to prescription painkiller overdose. Half a million ER visits in 2009 were a result of prescription painkiller misuse. Almost 12 million Americans admitted to non-medical use of painkillers in 2010.

Normal Aches of Aging or Degenerative Disc Disease?

April 22, 2015

When you hear the term “degenerative disc disease,” your mind may immediately dive into thoughts of a progressive, crippling condition. Does that mean limiting activity for the rest of your life?

Here's What Worker's Compensation Professionals Expect From Your Physician

March 16, 2015

It's not encrypted and it's not Top Secret, but it is code. CRIS: The code for success of Deuk Laser Disc Repair.

6 Common Causes of Back Pain

February 27, 2015

It creaks in the night. It stops you dead in your tracks. You don’t want to leave home if you think it may be out there. It can take you by surprise or you may know that it is waiting for your next strenuous move. Your fear of recurring back or neck pain has left you a recluse, shut away, unable to live your life.

Help! I Can't Feel My Fingers or Toes

February 02, 2015

By Ara J. Deukmedjian, MD, Board Certified Neuro-Spine Surgeon

What Do the Words on My MRI Mean?

December 08, 2014

If you are injured or develop pain in your back, neck or joints, your primary care physician, the ER physician at a hospital, or an urgent care doctor may recommend you have an MRI. About 30,000 MRI scans are performed every year, many of those of the back, neck and joints. At Deuk Spine Institute, we're able to perform MRI scans right here in our facility.

Am I Too Old for Back Surgery?

February 22, 2014

As we age, our bodies recover from injury more slowly. Surgery is no exception. For those who suffer with debilitating daily back and leg pain, surgery may be the only solution in cases when therapy or injections fail to provide adequate relief.

So is spine surgery safe in persons over 60, 70, or even 80 years old? The answer is “yes,” but it depends on how the surgery is done and how medically “fit” the patient is prior to surgery.

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