Orthopedics
Spine Health
Understanding Your Spine
The spine, or vertebral column, consists of 33 vertebrae separated by spongy discs. This structure supports your head, shoulders and upper body while allowing flexibility for movement. It also protects the spinal cord, which transmits nerve signals throughout your body.
Common Spine Conditions We Treat
Our expert team addresses a variety of spine issues, including:
- Sports Spine Injuries – Injuries sustained during physical activity.
- Stress Fractures – Small fractures in the vertebrae caused by repetitive stress.
- Spondylolysis – A condition caused by putting too much stress on your lower back while bending backward which can cause a fracture.
- Degenerative Disc Disease – The gradual wear and tear of discs that causes chronic back pain.
- Revision Spine Surgery
- Spinal Deformity – A condition like scoliosis which causes an abnormal curve in the spine.
- Spinal Tumors
- Geriatric Spinal Surgery
- Spinal Trauma
- Artificial Disc Replacement
Treatment Back and Neck Pain
For more complex cases, our facilities offer advanced treatments:
- OSF Illinois Neurological Institute – Provides additional treatments for spinal conditions and diseases.
- OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center– Known for its expertise in managing severe spine issues including degenerative conditions, trauma, tumors, and deformity disorders.
Advanced Technology for Spine Surgery
At OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, we use the advanced O-Arm™ Visualization Technology for spine surgeries. This innovative tool provides real-time 3D imaging of the spine during surgery, allowing for:
- Enhanced Precision: Surgeons get a clear, detailed view of the spine, improving accuracy.
- Minimally Invasive Options: Reduced need for large incisions, leading to quicker recovery and less pain.
- Improved Patient Comfort: No need for lead protective apparel, and more flexibility in patient positioning since the machine moves around the patient.
This treatment is helpful for anyone needing spinal surgery or anyone who has had trauma to the spine.
Ask for a Referral
If you are experiencing chronic back or neck pain or have been diagnosed with a spine condition, it's important to seek expert care to prevent further complications. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral to an orthopedic surgeon at OSF HealthCare. Need a primary care provider? Browse our directory.