Adult Spine Program

Our Adult Spine program within CU Orthopedics provides comprehensive spine care to patients of the Rocky Mountain Region including neurosurgery and orthopedic spine surgery, physical and rehabilitation medicine, and alternative medicine therapies. We provide state-of-the-art surgical intervention from fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeons.

Our surgeons are thoroughly trained and experienced in treatment of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine. Treatment of spine-related pain typically involves conservative measures such as rest, physical therapy, medications, therapeutic injections, and alternative therapies; however, when these fail, surgery may be indicated.

Kyphoplasty/Vertebroplasty

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive procedures used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures, a common complication of osteoporosis. These fractures can cause significant pain, limit mobility, and even lead to a hunched posture. In both procedures, a needle is advanced into the spine column and cement mixture is injected to treat fractures that cause pain.

These procedures offer several advantages:

• Pain relief: Studies show significant pain reduction within days of the procedure.
• Improved mobility: Increased strength in the vertebrae can lead to improved mobility and function.
• Shorter recovery time: Patients often experience a quicker return to daily activities compared to traditional surgery.

Disc Replacement

When disc degeneration advances to cause chronic back or neck pain, the disc may require removal for treatment. The typical treatment after removal of a disc has been fusion surgery.

This treatment achieves very good results; however, there is increased risk for degeneration at an adjacent spinal level and there is some reduction in mobility. This treatment provides pain relief while maintaining the mobility of the spine.

Post Fusion Surgery

Seeking relief from debilitating spine problems, over 600,000 Americans undergo fusion surgery annually. But proper post-operative rehabilitation is crucial for realizing hoped-for benefits. As leaders in complex spine care, our program guides patients from their first post-surgery steps through complete restoration of strength and function after fusion or disk replacement.

Recovery time is different for every patient; however, most patients are up and walking by the end of the first day after surgery. Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for 3-5 days depending on their condition.

Once released from the hospital, patients who have undergone a , , or procedure are given a prescription for pain medications to be taken if needed, as well as a detailed post-operative physical therapy/exercise plan to help ease recovery and return to a healthy life.

Trust our expert spine surgeons and specialized therapists to tailor progressive rehabilitation plans based on your surgery, anatomy, health profile and personal goals. Benefit from dedicated care closely tracking your achievements mile by mile. With patience and partnership, realize the promise of fusion: living active and uninhibited by pain again.