A New Procedure for Neck Pain

The lower back is one of the most common sources of pain. However, the upper portion of the spine — called the cervical — can also be a pain in the neck. Southern California Orthopedic Institute offers artificial disc replacement as a new treatment option to help relieve neck pain and restore mobility.

In 2007, the Food and Drug Administration approved the first cervical artificial disc implant in the United States following the approval of an artificial disc implant for the lower back in 2004. The prosthesis is designed to simulate the function of a natural cervical disc.

Candidates for cervical artificial disc replacement include those suffering from degenerative disc disease, which is the breaking down of a spinal disc. This disc acts as a shock absorber for our spine and allows us to twist and bend. When the disc degenerates or herniates, a person may experience symptoms such as pain radiating down the arm or numbness. As a result, we often have to alter our lifestyles to manage the pain.

Dr. Brian S. Grossman, an orthopedic spine surgeon with Southern California Orthopedic Institute, is trained in cervical artificial disc replacement surgery. “Artificial disc replacement can be an effective alternative to spinal fusion for some patients,” Dr. Grossman says.

Spinal fusion is the conventional surgery treatment option for cervical disc degeneration and herniation. Fusion and artificial disc replacement are both designed to relieve pain. Some studies show that disc replacement can better restore the flexibility of the neck.

Dr. Grossman adds: “Conservative treatment is always considered first for patients, but disc replacement is a viable option for selective cases where surgery is necessary.”

Southern California Orthopedic Institute has orthopedic specialists skilled in this procedure. For more information, contact SCOI at (818) 901-6600.

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