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Headaches May Be Caused by Many Things

Headaches are still quite the confusing thing for even medical professionals. Headaches may be caused by many things including injury, diet, stress, etc… What we’re here to help with is to best narrow down what could possibly be causing your headaches. We all know headaches are not the best thing to deal with and we understand they may be causing you to feel anywhere from slightly annoyed to in a great deal of pain. The important thing to remember is to know you’ll be in great hands here at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants.

Headaches Can Be Detrimental to Your Wellbeing

Wellbeing is different for many people, yet one thing is for sure, headaches do not belong within the “general wellbeing” category. Chronic headaches for most people have patterns and these patterns can help us better determine what is possibly causing them and how we can best go about resolving them.

Our Doctors will Help Diagnose What’s Causing Your Headaches

A proper diagnosis may be difficult with headaches, as there’s still so much we don’t know about them. Yet don’;t be discouraged, as we’ll ensure you receive the best care possible from all of our staff, doctors, and specialists to best determine what exactly is going on and how we can best treat the issue at hand. 

We’ll Provide Different Treatment Options to Best Resolve Your Headaches

We’ll most likely provide multiple treatment options for your chronic headaches as we want you to know there are multiple avenues to take when it comes to resolving this chronic issue. We’ll always support your choices when it comes to our recommended pathways to regaining your health and ensure you’re the one who makes the choice after presented with multiple options.

Choose Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants for Your Headache Resolution

If you’ve been experiencing chronic headaches and they just don’t seem to be going away, you’ll want to contact us for an evaluation using the form below. We’ll be sure to have you seen by one of our excellent doctors and have you on your way to possibly regaining your health once again. We look forward to hearing from you soon and we’re eager to begin treating your condition with our expertise!

DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Choosing the right backpack for your kids is crucial for a number of reasons, yet the most important reason is for their neck, and, and spine health. Kids are especially vulnerable to feeling the impact of a poorly constructed backpack, or a backpack which is worn incorrectly due to user error. In this post, we’ll be discussing which backpacks are the best choice for your kids, how to wear the backpacks properly to better avoid injury or discomfort, and how long your child should be wearing their backpack.

How to Properly Choose the Right Backpack for Your Kids

Choices, choices, choices. There are so many options to choose from when it comes to backpacks for your kids. While you should definitely involve your kids in the process, you’ll also want to be the one who makes the final decision one which backpack is best for your child. The right backpack should be properly sized, have a molded frame to support the spine, be constructed of lightweight material, possess adequate straps, and have individual compartments to properly distribute weight within the backpack.

A Properly Sized Backpack is Best

Your child may be very tall for their age, very small for their age, or somewhere in between. What’s important is for their backpack to not be overwhelmingly large to the point it throws off their posture, balance, and comfort levels. Finding the right-sized backpack for your kids is as simple as having them try out a few at the store and see which backpack aligns best with their frame and size.

A Molded Frame On the Backpack is Good for Spinal Support

A molded frame insert can help provide proper spinal support and prevent objects within your child’s backpack from poking into their back as well. These backpacks will typically be a bit more expensive, yet it’s certainly worth it when it comes to your child’s comfort and health. 

Choosing a Lightweight Material Will Help Alleviate Weight-Induced Strain

When you choose a lightweight material for your child’s backpack, it’s that much less of a strain on their back, neck, spine, and shoulders. Any extra weight reduction can help offset some of the strain a backpack may impose, so why not choose the lightest material possible while still maintaining the backpack’s integrity?

Ensuring the Backpack Has Adjustable Straps

When your child’s backpack has adjustable straps, it will allow you to effectively adjust the straps to fit their frame snugly and securely. This is an important and often underutilized component of many backpacks, yet those waist and sternum straps are there for a reason. They’re there to help secure the weight being held within your child’s backpack and successfully distribute some of the weight burden away from just their back area.

Individualized Compartments to Better Evenly Distribute Weight

When your child’s backpack has individualized compartments for better weight distribution, it’ll allow your child to balance out the weight of their backpack much more evenly. If the backpack doesn’t have individualized compartments, they may run the risk of having multiple heavy items paired next to a much lighter item; ultimately creating a lopsided backpack which could cause discomfort and pain. Be sure to teach your kids to use the individualized compartments to evenly distribute weight and they’ll thank you later for it.

Ensure the Weight of the Backpack is No More than 10% of Your Child’s Body Weight

This is something which should be very much adhered to. You don’t want your child’s backpack to be more than 10% of their body weight due to the fact it could cause them to experience pain, discomfort, or even an injury. The math is quick and easy to do with this equation so it should be easy for you to successfully implement this tip into their backpack wearing routine. 

Pack the Heaviest Items Closest to Your Child’s Back

This tip is similar to how you should always lift heavier objects closer to your body so you reduce the risk of injury. The same goes for your child’s backpack. If there’s a heavier item which must be carried within their backpack, you’ll want to remind them to pack it close to where their back would be aligned with the bag. If it’s packed too far away, for instance in the front pocket of the backpack, it may cause excess strain on your child’s back. You and your child will not want this to happen, so play it safe and always pack the heavier items near where your child’s back will be.

Properly Secure the Backpack with the Sternums & Waist Straps

As mentioned above, the straps are there for a reason and should be secured properly to best alleviate some of the weight load within your child’s backpack. Ensuring a comfortable fit cna do a lot of good if your child plans on wearing the backpack on and off on let’s say a hike for example.

Remind Your Child it’s Important to Use BOTH Straps

It’s no longer “cool” to wear one strap on your shoulder. Remind your child of this and let them know they’re not allowed to wear their backpack like that, otherwise it could cause issues later on down the road.

Only Wear the Backpack for 30 Minute Intervals to Reduce Stress On Back

Ensure your child is only wearing their backpack for no more than 30 minutes at a time. Any longer, and your child may end up with pain, discomfort, or injury. Let them know it’s perfectly okay to take the backpack off and rest if they’re feeling tired or strained from wearing it.

Follow These Tips for a Better Backpack Wearing Experience

Extending your support as a parent will help your child stick to these backpack wearing tips. You’ll most likely find your child will actually enjoy these tips once they’re put into practice, as their back, neck, and spine will likely be much less trained and fatigued. Ultimately this will lead to a happier child and we could all use that within our lives as parents, right? Right!

DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Nobody Should Have to Suffer Through Chronic Neck Pain

Chronic neck pain is one of those things which seems to creep up on us from time to time. Chronic neck pain is just as its name describes: “chronic”. Nobody should have to deal with chronic pain, let alone chronic neck pain. Throughout this post, we’ll be discussing what may be causing chronic neck pain, how our team of doctors will diagnose your chronic neck pain condition, and why you should contact us if you’re seeking relief from your chronic neck pain.

Neck Pain May Be Caused by Many Different Things

Neck pain in and of itself may be caused by many different things. What we at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants are focused on is determining what is causing your chronic neck pain, how we can best resolve the issue, and which steps we need to take to ensure it doesn’t return. We’re all about providing you, the patient, with the best care possible; which is why we always focus on a patient-first perspective whenever treating any condition. We want you to know you’re in great hands here at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants.

Chronic Neck Pain Diminishes Your Productivity Levels

Any type of pain will surely diminish your productivity levels, yet when it comes to chronic neck pain, the distractions which are caused by such pain are not good for your workflow. Whether you’re involved in a physically-demanding job or a more sedentary office-style job, you’ll surely become annoyed at the very least by your chronic neck pain. You shouldn’t wait any longer to let your chronic neck pain control your life. Contact us using the form below to be seen by one of our excellent doctors as soon as possible!

Chronic Neck Pain Doesn’t Allow You to Enjoy Life to the Fullest

Whether you’re just trying to complete some work at the office, or play your favorite sport, or even enjoy a nap on the couch; chronic neck pain will likely not allow you to fully enjoy those activities. Stop letting chronic neck pain demand so much of you. You deserve to have your painful condition resolved through the help of our team of expert neurosurgeons, physician assistants, and physical therapists.

Let Us at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants Help Resolve Your Neck Pain

If you’ve been searching for high-quality care you can count on, you’re at the right place! Feel free to contact us to schedule an appointment to be seen by one of our amazing specialists who will help diagnose, treat, and resolve your chronic neck pain. We look forward to hearing from you soon and we’re eager to begin helping you regain control of your life and say “goodbye!” to your chronic neck pain!

DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Walking is Natural for Us

Walking is what we’ve been meant to do from day one. As we’re children, we instinctively begin to toddle around and take our first steps with the help of our parents. As we begin to grow up, we start jogging, then running, then we hopefully continue to partake in activities which require the use of our legs on a daily basis. Sometimes though, life gets in the way and we put our physical health in the backburner. It’s important to prioritize physical health in the form of walking to ensure your entire body receives some stimulation in the form of daily exercise. Walking even for a brief 30 minute period is better than nothing. Read on to learn more about the benefits of daily walking and why it’s so important for us as human beings to incorporate siad walking into our daily routine as much as possible.

Walking Strengthens Our Body

So much of our day-to-day life depends on waking from point A to point B. Through walking,we’re able to achieve greater strength stability through our spine, as we’re quite intended to walk and walk as our ancestors did before. Walking promotes circulation, stability of the spine, and it conditions the muscles which help to keep the body in an upright position. Overall, walking is something which will help keep your muscles toned and ready to go for your next adventure.

Walking is a Good Way to Be Outside and Breathe Fresh Air

Walking is an activity which can certainly allow you to be outside and breathe fresh air. We all know benign outside and breathing in fresh air is beneficial for us, yet with walking you’re accomplishing two goals: walking your daily steps and being outside amongst nature and the sun.

Walking is a Good Family Activity

Walking is a fantastic family activity, especially if you’re on a weight loss journey together as a family unit. Walking helps promote better health and it’s a great way to slowly transition into an exercise program.

Walking Helps Us Appreciate Life

Life is an absolutely beautiful thing and so many of us take it for granted when we’re not out and about enjoying the great outdoors with family, friends, and taking in all the world has to offer. Walking helps us appreciate everything beautiful throughout the areas we live in and can truly help open our eyes to what a gift life actually is.

Choose Us for Your Physical Therapy Needs

If you’ve been experiencing any pain or discomfort throughout your body, especially within the common lower back region; you’ll want to contact us using the button below and learn more about how we can help with our team of excellent physical therapists. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Walking and hiking are both great physical activities to incorporate into your weekly exercise regimen. Below is a list of the five great walking/hiking trails throughout the greater Austin, Texas area. Read on to discover which ones will suit your style of walking and hiking best. Enjoy!

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1.) Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail

“The Greenbelt” as it’s often referred to by locals is a great trail which is always very popular with tourists and locals alike. It’s a fantastic place to still be in the city, eyt very much immersed within nature as well. With several entrances which can be easily accessed from many different points, you won’t have any trouble finding a good spot to enter the greenbelt and see all of the sights, sounds, and nature waiting for you to explore.

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2.) Butler Hike & Bike Trail

Nestled right next to Lady Bird Lake is the Butler Hike & Bike trail. Every mile has something new and exciting to offer and you’ll surely be impressed with all fo the great sights. In addition to the great sights, you’ll most likely encounter plenty of cute, friendly dogs being walked by their owners along the way.

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3.) McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls has one of the best walking trails around Austin; Onion Creek. This trail is perfect for those who want a casual walk which is just under three miles. Additionally, there are plenty of smaller waterfalls pouring over cascading limestone to admire all along the way.

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4.) Shoal Creek Trail

Shoal Creek Trail is the oldest trail in the city, yet it’s a trail which should definitely not be overlooked. It offers some fantastic views along with pleasant shade from old oak trees. What more could you want from a trail which is basically downtown?

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5.) Walnut Creek Trail

Walnut Creek trail is an East Austin gem which starts at Govalle Park. There are plenty of things to see and do along this trail as well, some of which consist of beautiful creek crossings. Altogether, this trail has something for everyone and should definitely be visited.

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Choose Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants if You’re Experiencing Chronic Back Pain

If you’ve been searching for relief from chronic back pain, you’ll want to contact us using the form below to see how we may be able to help alleviate said pain. We’ll be sure to have you seen by one of our amazing medical specialists as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Walking is so important for our daily existence and not enough of us seem to factor in even walking for a brief period of time. This brief guide is intended to help you incorporate walking into your daily routine, because after all, our bodies are intended to move and when each extra step counts towards possible better health, why not try to incorporate some extra steps into your daily routine? Enjoy!

Start Your Morning Off Right

Enjoying the sounds of birds chirping, the brisk air, and the friendly sun can all be great aspects of a morning walk routine. This process of starting your day off with a brief, 30-minute walk can do lots of good for your mental health as well. We all need to destress a little from time to time and walking in the morning amongst a natural setting can do wonders to help you ready yourself to take on the day.

Commuting? Park a Little Further Away to Enjoy the Walk to Work

If you’re a commuter to the office, you may want to park a little bit further than useula to incorporate some extra steps into your daily routine. This is a great way to explore a new neighborhood, save money on parking, or even just enjoy mixing up the monotony of daily life we can all experience from time to time.

A Lunchtime Stroll

A lunchtime stroll can be the perfect way to incorporate extra steps into your daily routine. If you noticed a new cafe pop up on your way in to work which is nearby the office, why not try it out by walking to the destination? This way, you’re walking and experiencing something new and fun. Bring a co-worker along too to help the office learn more about the importance of walking each and every day.

Incorporate Walking into Your Meetings

A walking meeting is a fantastic way to be outside, connect with your fellow co-workers, and embrace new surroundings; all the while you’re still doing what you’ve intended to do in the first place: walk. A walking meeting may even offer up some new creative ideas to flourish as you and your colleagues will be further stimulated by the outdoor environment. Walking meetings are truly a win-win-win!

An Evening Wind Down Walk

What better way to wind down in the evening than by taking an evening stroll by yourself, or with your loved ones. This can also be a great family activity to better communicate with everyone in your household while promoting a healthy activity simultaneously.

Choose Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants for Your Spine Health

If you’ve been searching for excellent spine, neck, and back specialists; you’ve come to the right place. Learn more about our medical center and our comprehensive care paired with our advanced technology. Schedule an appointment using the form below and we’ll be sure to reach out to you as soon as possible!

DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Why Posture is So Important

Posture is something which has always been important for us as human beings, yet it seems to be gaining a lot of attention in recent years. This is most likely due to the fact we’ve never had such a large percentage of our workforce within office-style jobs and it’s beginning to show in the form of back pain, neck pain, and wrist pain from the daily grind of an 9-5 type job. Read on to learn more about the importance of posture and how you can achieve better posture by following our tips below. Enjoy!

Preparation

Preparing your body for proper posture is just as important as actually committing to the process of proper posture. What we mean by this is you’ll want to ensure there aren’t any things within your work environment which prevent you from promoting proper posture throughout your day. This could be anything from an unbalanced chair, to a higher than normal desk, to even a screen which is not aligned with your eye-level. These things must be addressed and resolved before you can begin focusing on your proper posture plan. From there, you can then implement the right positioning, practice, and programs to better your posture.

Position

Position is key to spine health and posture performance. You’ll want to consistently check in with yourself to see if your position with how your seated or standing aligns with proper posture positioning techniques. Make sure you avoid slouching or hunching, as this may end up becoming a habit and causing issues in the future. Additionally, you’ll want to focus on maintaining an even eight distribution while you’re sitting or standing. This means you’ll want to evenly distribute weight throughout your hips and ensure your feet are flat on the floor to avoid any extra strain, pain, or discomfort. If you’re standing, you’ll want to focus on standing straight, keeping your shoulders pulled backward, and your stomach tucked in.

Practice

Practice makes perfect, and the same is true with practicing your proper posture form. It will certainly take some time before you become a master at practicing good posture, yet don’t let the extra time needed to learn good posture discourage you from doing so. Everything good in life typically takes some time and effort, so think about practicing good posture as an investment of your time for the future of your wellbeing. 

Program

There are an abundance of apps and programs to remind you to sit up straight and maintain good posture, If you find yourself struggling to maintain good posture on your own, you may want to look into downloading a good posture reminder app on your phone. This can help tremendously with constantly reminding you to do what you’re setting out to accomplish: maintaining good posture!

Choose Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants for Help Restoring Your Posture

If you need further assistance with techniques and strategies to help maintain good posture, our team of physical therapists will be more than happy to assist! They’re dedicated to helping you overcome poor posture and be back on track to a healthy life through various techniques and strategies. Feel free to contact us to learn more about how we can help by using the form below. We’ll be sure top have you seen by one of our excellent medical professionals and physical therapists to best diagnose what’s going on and how we can best treat the issues you’re experiencing. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.