Anita Hastings suffered a severe cervical spinal cord injury after a fall that left her unable to move her arms and legs. Following emergency ACDF surgery, months of rehabilitation, and years of continued recovery, she regained significant mobility and independence. Her story highlights the importance of timely treatment, rehabilitation, and the fact that spinal cord recovery can continue for months or even years.
A pars defect is a stress fracture in a small bridge of bone in the lower spine, most common in teen athletes who play sports involving repeated back extension, like gymnastics, football, and dance. While the injury can sound alarming, most cases heal with rest, physical therapy, and activity changes, and surgery is rarely needed at diagnosis. Learn how pars defects are diagnosed, treated, and what long-term recovery looks like.
Sharp pain shooting from your neck into your shoulder or arm often signals a pinched nerve, known medically as cervical radiculopathy. While the condition can be alarming, most people find relief through conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication, and rest, without ever needing surgery. This guide walks through the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and full range of treatment options available.
A pinched nerve in the back can cause shooting pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that travels into the leg. While many people improve with non-surgical treatments, surgery may be recommended when symptoms persist or worsen. Learn about common pinched nerve surgeries, when they may be necessary, and what to expect during recovery.
Lumbar fusion recovery happens gradually, with most patients beginning to walk within a day of surgery and returning to normal activities over the following weeks and months. This guide explains what to expect at each stage, including pain management, activity restrictions, physical therapy, and warning signs that may require a call to your surgeon.
Lumbar spondylolisthesis occurs when a vertebra in the lower back slips forward over the bone beneath it, potentially causing nerve compression and pain. Learn about the different types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, including physical therapy, medication, injections, and surgery.
If you’ve been living with chronic neck or back pain, seeing a spine surgeon can feel intimidating. Many people worry that scheduling an appointment means surgery is inevitable. During a recent appearance on the Neurosurgery Podcast, Dr. Kaiser discussed the philosophy that has guided his career for more than two decades: surgery should only be recommended when it’s truly necessary. Instead, every patient deserves the time, education, and honest guidance needed to make the right decision for their health. Here’s what patients can learn from Dr. Kaiser’s approach to spine care.
After years of living with chronic lower back pain caused by spinal stenosis and bulging discs, Erin found lasting relief through lumbar fusion surgery performed by Dr. Anthony Conte. Watch how exhausting conservative treatments ultimately led her to the surgeon who helped her get her life back.
For decades, Juan lived with essential tremor symptoms that affected nearly every part of his life. When medication no longer controlled the shaking, he turned to deep brain stimulation (DBS) at Neurosurgeons of New Jersey. Watch how Dr. Gigante helped Juan regain steadier hands, renewed confidence, and the freedom to enjoy life’s simple moments again.
Hela never expected occasional vertigo to lead to the discovery of three brain tumors: two acoustic neuromas and one meningioma. After being diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), she searched for a surgeon with the experience to treat her complex condition while protecting her quality of life. Watch how Dr. Liu helped her return to the active life she loves.
