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Laser Spine Institute

Laser Spine Institute's minimally invasive procedures are the safe and effective alternative to open neck or back surgery.

Our revolutionary endoscopic surgical techniques are proven to help patients return to their normal, active lifestyles. Every month, more people come to Laser Spine Institute for help in relieving their neck and back pain than to any other spine surgery center in the world.
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Endoscopic Spine Procedures
There are many spinal conditions that are treated at the Laser Spine Institute. All procedures are uniquely designed and developed to provide patients with the best possible medical care.More on endoscopic spine procedures
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About Laser Spine Institute
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Laser Spine Institute has amazing care with miraculous results.I am pain free at last and looking forward to once again living a full life.
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What is minimally invasive spine surgery and can this procedure help you?You can get these answers by attending a Free Educational Seminar.
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The physicians at Laser Spine Institute care about you and your condition.More about our doctors and medical staff
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Annular Tear
- Overview
- Definition
Symptoms
- Annular Tear Symptoms
  - Annular Tear Pain
Causes
- Annular Tear Causes
Types
Diagnosis
- Annular Tear Diagnosis
  - Annular Tear MRI
Treatment Options
Prevention
- Annular Tear Prevention
Risk Factors
- Annular Tear Risk Factors
Articles & Resources
- Articles about Annular Tears

Annular Tear Pain – Diagnosing and Treating

Annular Tear Pain

An annular tear and its corresponding pain can be quite debilitating for some patients. Since the annulus pulposus (the tough exterior of an intervertebral disc) is highly innervated, injury can lead to numbness, weakness and pain in the neck, back and extremities. In order to treat these uncomfortable symptoms, a doctor must first diagnose a patient with an annular tear.

Diagnosing an Annular Tear

Pain is usually the leading factor that causes a patient to seek treatment for a spinal condition. The following tests are typically performed in order to diagnose an annular tear:

Physical assessment – A doctor usually tests a patient’s strength and reflexes to determine the extent of a patient’s nerve damage. This is especially important since an annular tear in the lower back can lead to other conditions such as sciatica.
MRI – Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to present a detailed image of the neck and back. This imaging technique doesn’t always show an annular tear, however, so some doctors may utilize other tests.
Discography – This method is generally the most effective way to diagnose an annular tear. Dye is injected into the intervertebral disc, giving the physician a clear view of any injury that may be present.

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Treatment Options

Once a diagnosis is formed, a doctor can determine the proper form of treatment. This typically begins with conservative therapies such as pain medications, bed rest and hot and cold compresses. Some patients respond to these treatments quickly while others require weeks and sometimes months of care.

Be sure to speak with a doctor or specialist when experiencing what could be annular tear pain. A proper diagnosis and subsequent treatment can allow many patients to manage their pain and live a fully active lifestyle.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.

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