Dr. Nelms is well trained in all operative and non-operative aspects of scoliosis, complex spinal deformities, disorders of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, as well as common disorders such as spinal stenosis and herniated discs. He was awarded a fellowship to study spine surgery after his residency. Dr. Nelms offers an extensive list of treatments for spine conditions ranging from minimally invasive procedures to complex spine procedures. He has unique experience with research and clinical training in new techniques to offer his patients the very best in health care.
SPINE PROCEDURES PERFORMED BY DR. NELMS
Lumbar Discectomy
Spinal Fusion
Minimally invasive spine surgery
Spine Laminectomy
Reconstructive spine surgery
Spine Surgery
Dr. Nelms believes that spine surgery is reserved for that small percentage of patients whose pain cannot be relieved by non surgical treatment methods. The pain may be caused by a pinched nerve, movement of unstable cracked vertebra, or from nearby discs which are being affected.
If surgery is recommended, Dr. Nelms has a variety of options available to help relieve pressure on the nerve roots. If there are several nerve roots and discs causing the pain or if there is degeneration and instability in the spinal column, the neurosurgeon may opt to fuse the vertebrae together with bone grafts and stabilize the vertebrae with instrumentation, including metal plats, screws, rods and cages. A successful fusion will prevent the disc from bulging or herniated again. Following a fusion procedure, a patient may gain restored mobility in the back, including the ability to bend over. He or she will likely experience more mobility after surgery than before. In addition, the patient may require postoperative physical therapy.
ABOUT THE SPINE
Your spine is made of a column of 24 bones called vertebrae that extend from your skull down to your hips. Between the vertebrae are discs of soft tissue. The vertebrae join together like links in a chain, providing support for your head and body while the discs act as cushions, or “shock absorbers.” In addition to providing support, the spine encloses and protects a cylinder of nerve tissues called the spinal cord. The spinal cord is surrounded by a bony channel called the spinal canal.
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