The winter months are here, and with that comes more aches and pains due to frigid temperatures. Dr. Paul MacMahon, a neurosurgeon with Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, spoke with The Livingston Post to discuss some of the spine/neurological conditions adults face, especially in the wintertime, and how to best treat them.
Q: It’s starting to get cold here in Michigan. What are some of the most common things you treat patients for this time of year?
Dr. MacMahon: One of my clinical focuses is on the treatment of conditions causing pain or discomfort in the spine. One of the most common issues I treat each winter is generalized arthritic pain. Arthritis flare-ups can lead to excruciating pain in the neck or back areas, and this is especially the case in older adults. But every patient is different, so the patient’s health history, as well as a physical examination, are key in understanding the underlying causes of pain and how to best treat them.
Q: Speaking of treatments, what are some of the most effective non-surgical treatments available for back pain?
Dr. MacMahon: Treatments vary depending on the patient’s level of discomfort. Physical therapy is a good option and can be prescribed as part of a larger treatment plan. While it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, many patients find relief through these targeted exercises. One treatment I believe is especially effective is water therapy. Water reduces strain on the spine, making it easier to exercise without the impact of gravity. Additionally, acupuncture, massage therapy, and other similar treatments can also provide relief.
Q: If someone is dealing with back pain of any kind, when is the best time to get it examined?
Dr. MacMahon: A good rule of thumb is that if the pain lingers for a couple weeks, it should be evaluated by a medical professional. For back pain, specifically, it largely depends on the patient’s tolerance level. If they can slightly modify their daily activities and their pain doesn’t worsen, it may not be urgent. However, if the pain persists or becomes more intense, it would be best to schedule an appointment with a primary care doctor to receive an evaluation.
Q: Are there specific spine conditions older adults should watch for?
Dr. MacMahon: As we age, some spine issues are unavoidable. However, one of the best ways to limit the chances of developing pain is weight management. Maintaining a healthy weight and strengthening the core muscles are crucial for the spine. Another key point is limiting your physical activity if you are in pain. If your exercises are hurting you or making your spine hurt after your workout, it may be best to find an alternative way to exercise, or to take frequent breaks to avoid overloading the spine.
Q: When is surgery necessary, and how safe are the procedures?
Dr. MacMahon: Spinal surgery has evolved significantly over the years, particularly thanks to minimally invasive techniques and advanced technologies like robotics and neuro-navigation. These tools allow us to perform more precise surgeries, leading to quicker recovery times, less operative complications and improved pain.
However, minimally invasive surgery isn’t appropriate for everyone. It’s important for the surgeon and patient to work together to determine whether surgery is the right option. Non-surgical treatments should be explored first, but surgery may be necessary for severe, persistent conditions that cannot be resolved otherwise.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Dr. MacMahon: I want to emphasize that as a surgeon, my goal is to provide the best possible care for patients, which sometimes means advising against surgery if it’s not necessary. While surgery is a solution for some, it’s not the first line of defense for all spine problems. If we recommend a non-surgical treatment approach, it’s because we believe it’s in the best interest of the patient’s long-term health. This approach to care ensures patients are actively managing their health in ways that support lasting well-being.
For more information about maintaining your spine health, please visit https://www.trinityhealthmichigan.org/services/orthopedics/specialties/spine-issues-and-back-pain
