BJC HealthCare and Washington University Physicians understand the concern COVID-19 has caused for our patients and communities. We are working together to help you and your family return to activities that bring you joy. Things may look a little different when you return to our facilities, as we are taking many important precautions to keep you and your family healthy and safe: Screening all staff and patients | Continuing to thoroughly disinfect exam rooms between each patient visit | Maintaining visitor restrictions to limit the exposure to others during your visit | Reformatting waiting rooms to enable social distancing | Requiring face masks or coverings to enter our facilities | Staggering appointments to maintain social distancing and keep a comfortable waiting room environment
Back and neck pain can range from a mild, dull, annoying ache to persistent, severe, disabling pain. It can interfere with normal functioning and your quality of life. Spine pain can come on suddenly and chronic pain lasts for weeks, months or even years. If you are suffering, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with a spine specialist.
Back and neck pain can affect all areas of your life – from responsibilities at home to your job, from self-care to the hobbies you enjoy. Take a three-minute assessment and receive tailored recommendations, prevention strategies and education to help you better understand the cause of your symptoms.
Most people who have back pain or neck pain will not need surgery. Your spine specialist might recommend surgery if your problem has not gotten better with other nonoperative treatments, such as medicine or physical therapy. If you still have significant pain, surgery on your spine might fix the problem. Treatment options range and it is important to talk to your physician to determine what is appropriate for you.
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It is normal to have a lot of questions when considering surgery. Your doctor and surgical care team are committed to your safety every step of the way. The doctors and staff at Washington University and Barnes-Jewish developed this guide to help the patient and their caregiver prepare and know what to expect before, during and after. If you and your physician decide spine surgery will get you back to living a healthy and active life, you can download the Spine Journey Guide.
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