Quiet time, relaxation techniques and massage therapy in a family oriented setting may sound like features of a new spa, but those amenities are just a few of the benefits available through the St. Francis Spine Center. Persons living with chronic back pain receive expert care from an experienced team of surgeons and staff who specialize in back care treatment in a soothing environment designed to reduce pain, restore mobility and renew spirits.
“The dedicated Spine Center and specialized staff at St. Francis Health Center prepare patients and families for their surgical experience from pre-operative education through their recovery on their ‘pathway back to health,’” says Kenneth Gimple, MD.
When back ailments can no longer be alleviated with medication and rest, innovative surgical procedures can help. For example, a pinched nerve can be corrected using a dynamic stabilization system. Treatment for a routine disc herniation can often be accomplished by using a microscope-aided procedure that avoids cutting muscle while correcting the problem.
Discs can also be replaced to provide a greater range of motion so patients can continue with active lifestyles.
Once surgery has been performed and the patient has been transferred to the St. Francis Spine Center for recuperation and rehabilitation, the team members use a variety of techniques to make patients both more comfortable and more mobile.
“The St. Francis Spine Center promotes wellness and places great emphasis on patient education through informational sessions, written materials, family involvement, early rehabilitation, positive reinforcement and group support of the patients,” says Michael Smith, MD.
Patients receive comprehensive educational guide books with instructional photographs and newsletters to aid their recovery.
The center’s calming pathway theme encourages patients to walk corridors decorated with artistic photographs of nature paths. Every afternoon patients relax in their rooms for a two-hour quiet time. Massage, visualization techniques and various therapies are also components of the healing process.
Sharon Loughrea, coordinator of the St. Francis Spine Center, says, “We understand that patients who have been living with chronic back pain may still need to learn coping skills for dealing with pain that may not be completely eliminated through surgery. With education, encouragement and environmental enhancements, we can help patients improve their range of motion and their quality of life.”