On the cusp of the next wave of advancements in spinal procedures, robot-guided spine surgery is a significant development and major technological trend to watch for in 2019. The method has proven to modernize traditional spinal surgeries with greater accuracy and safety. Images taken from a CT scan are used to design a unique blueprint for each case. This allows surgeons to carefully plan and consider all aspects of surgery before setting foot in the operating room. As such, when the surgery takes place, 3D computerized planning and robot-guidance ensures that each surgical instrument is placed and used accurately. With smaller incisions, less operative bleeding, faster recovery and less time spent in the hospital, patients benefit from greater precision and reproducible outcomes that help them return to their active lifestyles. Without question, robot-guidance is promising and exciting, perhaps defining the future of spine surgery. Continue reading.
If you’ve lived with pain for a long period of time, you understand that the effects of it extend beyond your injury or condition. In fact, most individuals claim that living with chronic pain dramatically compromises their overall quality of life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that chronic pain is one of the most common reasons that adults in America seek medical care. Unfortunately, this often leads to restriction of daily activities, dependence on medications (opioids), anxiety, depression and poor perceived health. With this in mind, there is a movement towards interventional methods for pain management, including specific exercises, electrotherapy, injections and a psychological component of mindfulness. Continue reading.
Building upon the enormous progress made in 2018, people are continuing to embrace ancient practices with new age, earth-friendly remedies for health and wellness. Editors at Well + Good emphasize the growing hunger for CBD or cannabidiol, which is a non-intoxicating compound found in hemp and cannabis plants that’s believed to relieve anxiety, insomnia, pain and inflammation. While it’s part of an unregulated industry right now, it’s believed that 2019 will be the year that CBD brands will harness sustainable sourcing, transparency and giving back as a way to set themselves apart from questionable players in the market. Ultimately, the regulation of CBD will set the stage for a multitude of new and exciting products. Continue reading.
The way that chronic pain is being treated is changing all around the world. A staggering 37% of people in developed countries are recorded as suffering from chronic pain. Treating symptoms and patients waiting for long periods for a specific treatment are not viable options for addressing the problem. A multidisciplinary approach allows healthcare professionals to deliver tailored treatment plans to patients that provide pain relief or effectively address the underlying issue. Continue reading.
