At the Nevada Spine Clinic we specialize in the exclusive treatment of spinal disorders, treating a variety of conditions including:

Focusing exclusively on the spine, we offer non surgical, minimally invasive and advanced surgical techniques as solutions to spinal pathology, including artificial disc replacement as an alternative to spinal fusion.  We are dedicated to providing the highest quality patient care, precision surgical techniques and the academic advancement of spine care treatment.

What is a Herniated Disc?

The spinal cord is protected by bones of the spine, called the vertebrae.  Between each vertebra is a jelly like disc that acts as a cushion between the bones.  These discs are made up of two portions.  The inner part, the nucleus pulposus, is made up mostly of water and gives the disc a spongy, shock absorbing quality.  The outer part, the annulus, is made up of a ring of tough ligament that surrounds the inner material holding the disc together. Damage to a disc can cause the inner material to bulge or rupture.  This herniation may put pressure on the spinal cord or nerve root causing pain, numbness and weakness in the back, arm or leg.  Herniation of a disc can occur as part of normal aging or as a result of an injury or disease.  A herniated disc in the lower back may cause sciatica, where pressure on the sciatic nerve causes pain to run down the leg to the ankle.  A herniated disc in the neck may cause pain to radiate between the shoulders, arms or chest.

What is Spinal Stenosis?

The spinal cord is protected by bones of the spine, called the vertebrae.  Between each vertebra is a jelly like disc that acts as a cushion between the bones.  These discs are made up of two portions.  The inner part, the nucleus pulposus, is made up mostly of water and gives the disc a spongy, shock absorbing quality.  The outer part, the annulus, is a ring of tough ligament that surrounds the inner material holding the disc together.  Surrounding the vertebrae is a network of pain receptors. The vertebrae and discs together create the spinal canal which houses the spinal cord.  Normally, there is free space around the spinal cord leaving the pain receptors and nerve roots untouched.  Spinal Stenosis is a condition where there is narrowing of this space due to bone or tissue growth.  Spinal Stenosis can occur as part of the normal aging process.  Age related changes in disc material and connective tissue and joint disease may cause damage to the discs and spinal joints, as well as cause growth of bone spurs.  This growth puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots which may cause pain, numbness and weakness in the buttocks, legs, and feet.