Back and Spine Center at Martin Memorial Inaugural Lecture, Screening Event a Success

The Back and Spine Center at Martin Memorial recently held its inaugural lecture and screening event. Designed to provide information on back and spine problems, the event drew nearly 60 people.

The lecture was presented on Sept. 25 by Drs. John Afshar, John Robinson and John Viola, neurosurgeons at the Back and Spine Center, who provided information on a wide array of back and spine issues. After the lecture, 46 people were screened by three Martin Memorial physical therapists and three neurosurgical physician assistants from the Back and Spine Center.

The Back and Spine Center at Martin Memorial, which was officially launched Sept. 7, is the premier comprehensive neurosurgery center on the Treasure Coast. Located at 509 Riverside Drive on the Martin Memorial Medical Center campus in Stuart, the Back and Spine Center features three board-certified neurosurgeons, as well as a team of clinical support staff that includes physician assistants and a physical therapist.

Together, they are able to diagnose and treat patients suffering from back and spine pain – as well as complex conditions of the brain – with a wide variety of minimally invasive procedures and non-surgical treatment options.

The Back and Spine Center also features a rapid referral system that can help patients get an appointment to see a neurosurgeon quickly, or with a physician assistant the same day. Diagnostic procedures such as X-rays, and CT and MRI scans are coordinated through the center for a quick turnaround.

The neurosurgeons at the Back and Spine Center offer the latest minimally invasive surgical treatments that are designed for shorter hospital stays, faster healing and fewer complications. Assisted by sophisticated computers, the neurosurgeons can reconstruct spinal columns, insert artificial discs, repair fractures and relieve pinched nerves. They also utilize the latest technologies for surgical treatment of tumors and other conditions affecting the brain.

Not all back and spine issues require surgery. Non-surgical options include on-site physical therapy along with referrals for pain management, holistic services, and diet and nutritional counseling. Each patient leaves with a comprehensive and customized treatment plan.

For more information, call the Back and Spine Center at (772) 288-5862 or visit BackandSpineFL.com.

Tale of the Tape: Kinesio Taping Has Benefits for Athletes and Rehabilitation Patients

Here at Martin Memorial Health Systems we take great pride in our patient care, and we are always trying new techniques to aid in our patients’ recovery.

That’s why many of our therapists recently studied the kinesio taping method. The goal is that together with other rehabilitations modalities we will enhance our patient care, and it will now be offered at all of our Martin Memorial rehabilitation sites.

Kinesio tape and the kineso taping method were founded in Japan by Dr. Kenzo Kase in 1973. It was first seen internationally at the 1988 Olympics. Since those Olympics, the tape has gained recognition around the world. It wasn’t until 1995 this taping method was introduced in the United States, and has since been accepted from the world’s best known athletes.

Many athletes in the 2008 Summer Olympics, along with the Paralympics, used kinesio tape. Athletes including Lance Armstrong, Kerri Walsh, and players from the New York Jets and Seattle Mariners have been using the tape with great results. Though the tape has recently boomed with athletes, 85 percent of all applications are performed on non-athletes. Many physical therapists across the country are using this tape in their practices for patients to utilize at home and between visits.

Kinesio tape is a stretchy fabric tape with a medical grade acrylic heat activated adhesive backing. It is latex-free and can stretch up to 100 percent in length. The tape can be worn for three to five days without reapplying. It is waterproof and may be worn in the pool or shower. This tape is designed to lift the skin to allow increased circulation, to help enhance muscle performance and protect against injury. Kinsio tape is unique to all other forms of athletic tape; it allows more movement in the body and skin.

What can the tape be used for? Virtually anything. Depending on how the tape is applied to the body, it can be used to decrease swelling after surgery, to protect a joint or muscle from overstretch or injury. The tape can encourage better spinal alignment and posture. The possibilities are endless.

There are five major effects of kinesio tape. First, our skin is our largest sensory organ in our bodies. The tape allows increased space in deeper tissues to allow for increased circulation and reducing pressure on our pain receptors. The tape can affect nearly every part of the body through contact with the skin. This allows for increased lymphatic flow along with improved blood exchange. Kinesio tape allows the fascia in our bodies to re-organize correctly. The tape greatly improves alignment of joints and helps facilitate function of ligaments and tendons. Finally, muscles can be encouraged to contract or can relax over-used muscles to prevent further stress.

With many medical benefits, the tape can be used for a wide variety of scenarios or medical needs – for athletes, weekend warriors or anyone who might benefit from its use.

--Victoria Strome, PTA
Martin Memorial Rehabilitation Services

Osteoporosis is a Challenging Condition, but Manageable With Professional Guidance

As people age their bodies go through many changes, one of which is a change in their posture.

These postural changes are due to tightening muscle groups, decreased muscle tone and decreased bone strength. The National Institutes of Health defines osteoporosis as a systemic skeletal disorder with compromised bone strength that predisposes an individual to increased fracture risk. The most common fractures due to osteoporosis are of the wrist, hip and vertebral bodies, with the hip being the most disabling and life-threatening.

A bone density scan is completed to determine if you have osteoporosis. This scan will result in a measurement known as a T-score. If the T score is 0 to -1, the bone strength is normal; -1 to -2.4 equals osteopenia; -2.5 and below equals osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis can be managed with medication, diet and exercise:

• There are many medications on the market which can be taken daily, weekly, monthly and even once a year. Talk to your physician to determine if this is an option for you.

• A diet filled with various calcium-rich foods plays an important part in managing osteoporosis.

• Getting at least 20 minutes of sunlight a day helps your body produce Vitamin D, which aides in the absorption of calcium.

• An exercise program including a walking regimen and weight training program can help build bone density and increase postural muscle strength.

With a prescription from a physician, you can participate in a physical therapy osteoporosis program providing education about posture, body mechanics, fall prevention and specific exercise techniques.

The physical therapists at Martin Memorial are trained in the Meeks Method of exercise for patients with osteoporosis. This is a systematic, progressive exercise program specifically designed to unload and elongate the spine.

The benefit of the Meeks Method is that once you’ve received proper training from physical therapists, you can incorporate these techniques into your daily life and exercise regimen. Upon completion of skilled physical therapy, Martin Memorial offers memberships at our health and fitness centers with trainers to assist you with your management of osteoporosis.

For further information regarding our rehabilitation services osteoporosis program at Martin Memorial, please contact us at (772)223-2811.

--Cathy Sopotnick, MSPT
Rehabilitation Services

Back and Spine Center at Martin Memorial to Hold Back Pain Screening, Seminar

The Back and Spine Center at Martin Memorial will be holding a free screening and seminar on Saturday, Sept. 25 to discuss causes of and treatments for back pain.

Back pain will affect an estimated 85 percent of Americans at some point in their lives, and lower back pain is one of the five most common reasons people visit a doctor. To help people learn more about this common but potentially debilitating problem, three board-certified neurosurgeons from the Back and Spine Center will hold a seminar discussing the causes of back and neck pain, the range of treatments available, as well as minimally invasive treatment options the center can provide.

Immediately following the seminar, a brief spinal screening examination will be performed by a physician assistant and physical therapist. One-on-one consultations will be available after the screening, and follow-up appointments will be scheduled on site if needed.

The event will be held at the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center, located at 501 E. Osceola Street in Stuart. The seminar begins at 8 a.m., followed by the screening session from 9 to 11 a.m. Refreshments will be provided.

Space is limited and a reservation is required. Please call 1-866-361-HOPE (4673) to reserve a spot.

“Bert’s Story” Demonstrates How the Back and Spine Center Can Help Ease Pain

Bert Goldman had been battling pain in his back for more than a year. On many occasions, that meant he had to skip playing golf, one of his favorite pasttimes. A neighbor recommended that he visit Martin Memorial. After meeting with John Viola, MD, a neurosurgeon with the Back and Spine Center at Martin Memorial, Bert decided to have a minimally invasive surgery. In this video, Bert talks about how the surgery has relieved the pain and helped get him back on the golf course again. For more information on the center, the neurosurgeons, as well as general information on back and spine treatment options, visit backandspinefl.com, or call (772) 288-5862.

Research Study at Martin Memorial Could Add Treatment Option for Osteoarthritis

“Oh, my aching knee!” is a common cry among the more than four million people affected with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States with approximately one in three adults with arthritis reporting limitation in their usual activities. The problem will be compounded with the aging of the Baby Boomer population and the projected increase in life expectancy.

Joint pain during and/or after activity is the most common symptom of this degenerative disorder, which affects the cartilage and bone of primarily large weight-bearing joints. Other joint symptoms include swelling, a grating or crackling sound or feeling, and restricted motion. Genetic predisposition, obesity, advancing age and physically demanding occupations contribute to the development of osteoarthritis.

What are the treatment options?

Pharmacological intervention is an important and often early component in the management of OA. Acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are frequently prescribed as the first-line treatment for mild to moderate OA symptoms. Due to potentially dangerous side effects, caution should be taken when using any medication.

There is some evidence that physical therapy and a standardized exercise program can improve self perceptions of pain, stiffness and function in OA sufferers. One study showed that physical therapy and exercise delayed the need for total knee replacement one year after treatment.

Intra-articular corticosteroid injections also have an anti-inflammatory effect and may often provide short-term pain relief. Steroid injections carry the potential for complications, however, and frequent administration is somewhat controversial.

Hyaluronic acid, a component of cartilage and the fluid which cushions the knee, is another intra-articular injection option which can provide longer-lasting relief. These products, available in four different preparations, are designed to improve the shock absorption and lubrication of the joint and are generally provided in a series of three to five injections.

There is significant disagreement in the published literature about the effectiveness of arthroscopic surgery as a treatment option for knee OA. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure which focuses on the surgical removal of torn or damaged cartilage.

Total knee arthroplasty is the final procedure used to restore joint function by replacing damaged surfaces of the knee joint with artificial surfaces. Advances in biotechnology are revolutionizing knee replacements. Newer products can bend and rotate and can last 30 years or longer. This option is reserved for severely affected joints. To discuss this or any of the treatment options for OA of the knee, contact a rheumatology or orthopedic specialist.

Martin Memorial’s research department is currently enrolling volunteers in a clinical trial designed to test an investigational knee injection to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. For more information about the trial please contact me at (772) 223-5945, ext. 3739.

--Judith Johansen, RN, BSN, CCRP
Clinical Research Coordinator

Martin Memorial Rehabilitation, Fitness Staffs Work Together to Benefit Patients

At Martin Memorial Health Systems, staff from our rehabilitation, and health and fitness departments work together to offer custom designed programs that can help patients reach their goals.

Rehabilitation services provide physical, occupational and speech therapy patients with an environment to heal. Acute pain can be debilitating and often the diagnosis can be life changing. The rehab team is there for people to educate themselves regarding conditions and to learn how to manage, cope and heal from physical pain and many other diagnoses.

The first step to receiving care through the rehab department is to obtain a prescription from the doctor. There are seven rehab facilities to choose from, extending from Hobe Sound to St. Lucie West. The Hospital South and Treasure Coast facilities both offer aquatic therapy in therapeutic heated pools. Our rehab facilities offer specialized treatment ranging from orthopedic certifications, lymphedema, watsu, myofascial release and balance training.

Upon completion of the therapy treatments, patients are offered a referral to health and fitness. A variety of classes are offered through health and fitness facilities, including gentle arthritis and aerobic classes in the water (which can be found at the Treasure Coast site), as well as zumba, yoga and step classes that are offered in a large studio environment. Physical and occupational therapists often refer patients to health and fitness and encourage them to continue with an exercise program.

Health and fitness professionals include licensed massage therapists and licensed personal trainers. Therapeutic massage is offered through health and fitness to maintain gains from therapy. Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue to enhance the function and promote relaxation and well-being.

A personal trainer is someone who makes sure a person is doing exercises correctly, as well as choosing or progressing an appropriate exercise regime. The scope of practice for a personal trainer is to enhance the components of fitness for the general, healthy population. The added touch of a professional to progress your program is very beneficial.

Appointments are available with licensed massage therapists, personal trainers and/or exercise physiologists to further progress an individual’s program. Our medical fitness facilities offer a variety of services to accommodate individual needs that can help you design a program to maintain health.

--Tara Marie Anstensen
Martin Memorial Rehabilitation Services

Martin Memorial Launches Comprehensive Neurosurgery Center

Treasure Coast residents suffering from back and neck pain now have a place where they can find fast and lasting relief.

The Back and Spine Center at Martin Memorial, which was officially launched Sept. 7, is the premier comprehensive neurosurgery center on the Treasure Coast. Located at 509 Riverside Drive on the Martin Memorial Medical Center campus in Stuart, the Back and Spine Center features three board-certified neurosurgeons, as well as a team of clinical support staff that includes physician assistants and a physical therapist.

Together, they are able to diagnose and treat patients suffering from back and spine pain – as well as complex conditions of the brain – with a wide variety of minimally invasive procedures and non-surgical treatment options.

The Back and Spine Center also features a rapid referral system that can help patients get an appointment to see a neurosurgeon quickly, or with a physician assistant the same day. Diagnostic procedures such as X-rays, and CT and MRI scans are coordinated through the center for a quick turnaround.

“The goal of the Back and Spine Center is to help patients return to their everyday activities without pain, as quickly as possible,” said Miguel Coty, vice president of marketing communications for Martin Memorial. “We are able to offer a spectrum of sophisticated services, provided by highly skilled clinical professionals, all in one location for the convenience and comfort of our patients.”

The Back and Spine Center is led by three accomplished neurosurgeons, each of whom is certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and has earned Fellowship status from the American College of Surgeons. They include:

• John K.B. Afshar, MD, who specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques for the spine and brain. He is nationally recognized for his research in strokes and neurosurgery. He earned his medical degree from Georgetown University Medical Center, where he also completed his internship and residencies.

• John R. Robinson Jr., MD, specializes in computer-guided, minimally invasive microsurgical treatments for the spine and brain. He graduated with honors from the University of South Florida College of Medicine, and completed his internship and residency at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Ohio.

• John J. Viola, MD, specializes in the treatment of brain and spinal tumors, persistent back pain, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis and much more. He earned his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, and completed his internship and residency at Georgetown University Medical Center.

The neurosurgeons at the Back and Spine Center offer the latest minimally invasive surgical treatments that are designed for shorter hospital stays, faster healing and fewer complications. Assisted by sophisticated computers, the neurosurgeons can reconstruct spinal columns, insert artificial discs, repair fractures and relieve pinched nerves. They also utilize the latest technologies for surgical treatment of tumors and other conditions affecting the brain.

Not all back and spine issues require surgery. Non-surgical options include on-site physical therapy along with referrals for pain management, holistic services, and diet and nutritional counseling. Each patient leaves with a comprehensive and customized treatment plan. For more information, call the Back and Spine Center at (772) 288-5862 or visit BackandSpineFL.com.

Martin Memorial Emergency Center at St. Lucie West Celebrates First Anniversary

The doors to the Martin Memorial Emergency Center at St. Lucie West had not even opened yet when the first patient seeking care showed up on the morning of Sept. 1, 2009.

People have continued to receive care there at a remarkable pace, averaging nearly 2,000 visits per month since the emergency center began treating patients a year ago. Demand was high enough that Martin Memorial has already added an additional bed for a total of 13.

Located at 1095 N.W. St. Lucie West Blvd. in Port St. Lucie, the emergency center is an off-site emergency department designed to meet the critical medical services needs for western St. Lucie County by providing access to timely emergency care.

“When we opened this facility we believed it would be a valuable resource for the community and it has exceeded expectations,” said Steven D.M. Parr, DO, medical director of the emergency center. “We have been able to help a great number of people receive the care they needed quickly and close to home.”

The 9,100-square foot emergency center provides a wide range of care, treating everything from sprains to chest pains. Diagnostic imaging – including X-rays, and MRI and CT scans – are available on site, as well as a laboratory dedicated just for the emergency center.

While off-site emergency departments traditionally see patients with less serious illnesses or injuries – generally allowing them to treat patients more quickly – the physicians and nurses on staff are able to respond to acute injuries and illnesses as well.

The emergency center is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day, but does not provide inpatient beds. It is staffed and equipped to handle many of the same emergencies a hospital would, though patients with more severe injuries or ailments are taken to appropriate facilities. Patients requiring inpatient admission are transported by ambulance to a hospital.