Conditions
Chronic Pain Management at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery
Chronic Pain Management & Treatment
Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than 12 weeks. Unlike acute pain, which is experienced due to trauma or disorder and alerts us to an injury, chronic pain often persists for many months or longer.
At Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery, we offer comprehensive chronic pain management to help you cope with the pain you feel daily, monthly, and yearly. From medications and procedures to diet and mental health, there are many ways your chronic pain can be managed. Let Dr. Karan Johar provide his expertise and experience to give you the treatment you need for your chronic pain.
Conditions Treated:
Neck & Back Pain: Radiculitis, inflamed nerves, muscle spasms, herniated discs
Knee Pain
Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Pain
Foot & Ankle Injuries
Degenerative Disc Disease
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Spinal Stenosis
Arthritis Pain Treatment
Joint Disorders
Scoliosis
Fibromyalgia
Whiplash
Lower Back Pain
Sports Injuries
Causes of Chronic Pain:
Surgery: Tissue damage and scar tissue are some of the leading causes of chronic pain after surgery. Nerve damage and wound inflammation can also occur as by-products. It isn’t the surgery itself that causes pain, but these resulting conditions.
Traumas: Trauma, such as an accident causing injury, can lead to chronic pain. Nerve damage and scar tissue may result from such trauma, and neurological damage from head trauma can cause chronic psychogenic pain.
Cancer: Pain from cancer comes in many forms, such as back pain associated with lung cancer or bone pain from various types of cancer. Nerve damage, as seen with mastectomies, can cause long-term pain.
Arthritis: Arthritis can cause both acute and chronic pain. For instance, knee arthritis flare-ups can lead to long-lasting pain and restricted movement.
Brain Conditions: Psychogenic pain, caused by psychological factors rather than physical injury, can flare up due to past painful experiences.
Nerve Damage: Surgeries, traumas, and diseases can all cause nerve damage, leading to chronic pain. Treatment ranges from over-the-counter treatments to prescription medications and further procedures.
Chronic Pain Management in New York City
Our Approach:
Dr. Karan Johar sees patients from all over New York at his practice at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery. Known for his genuine concern for his patients' well-being, Dr. Johar treats all his patients with respect and compassion. He takes a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating minimally invasive interventional methods, practical treatments, and effective medication management.
Why Choose Dr. Karan Johar?
Board Certified in Pain Management and Anesthesiology
Non-surgical Approach
State-of-the-Art Equipment
Immediate Appointments
Effective Treatment Plans
Accepts Most Insurance Plans
Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff
Convenient Location in New York City
Spinal Stenosis at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery
What is Spinal Stenosis?
According to Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery, spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of spaces within a person’s spine, generating undue pressure on both the nerves and spinal cord. Nearly 75 percent of all spinal stenosis cases occur in the lumbar spine (lower back). In many instances, this narrowing can constrict the nerve root, causing acute pain down the back of the leg.
Conditions Treated:
Back & Neck Injuries: Radiculitis, inflamed nerves, muscle spasms, herniated discs
Knee Pain
Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Pain
Foot & Ankle Injuries
Spinal Stenosis
Chronic Pain Management
Arthritis Pain Treatment
Joint Disorders
Scoliosis
Fibromyalgia
Causes of Spinal Stenosis:
Heredity: If a person’s spinal canal is excessively small at birth, symptoms may appear at a young age. Structural abnormalities of the vertebrae can also lead to the narrowing of the spinal canal.
Aging: As people age, their ligaments (connective tissues between each bone within the spine) can thicken. Small growths or spurs may form on the bones and into the spinal canal. Over time, the cushioning disks between the vertebrae can weaken, and the facet joints, which form the spinal column on each vertebra, may deteriorate. These factors can cause the spaces within the spine to narrow, resulting in spinal stenosis.
Spinal Trauma: Trauma to the back or spine can cause spinal stenosis. Injuries and accidents can produce burst fractures that cause bone fragments to penetrate the canal or dislocate the spinal canal and spine altogether.
Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can potentially impact the spine, leading to spinal stenosis.
Spinal Tumors: Irregular growths of soft tissue can affect the spinal canal by growing tissue in the canal or causing inflammation. Tissue growth can result in bone resorption (loss of bone) or bone displacement, along with the collapse of the spinal column’s supporting framework.
Spondylolisthesis (Spine Instability): This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward onto another, subsequently narrowing the spinal canal.
Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis:
Key symptoms of spinal stenosis may include lower back and/or leg pain. Stenosis can pinch nerves that control muscle strength and sensation in the legs. Other symptoms often include:
Cold or hot sensations in the legs, along with tingling or numbness
Difficulty or pain when walking
Frequent clumsiness or tendency to fall
Treatment for Spinal Stenosis in New York City
Our Approach:
Dr. Karan Johar provides a unique approach to effective treatment for lower back pain, incorporating a variety of minimally invasive interventional techniques. Dr. Johar uses practical treatments and medication management to benefit his patients greatly. Known for his genuine concern for his patients, Dr. Johar treats all his patients with compassion and respect, helping them return to a pain-free lifestyle.
Whiplash at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery
What is Whiplash?
Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery describes whiplash as a type of neck injury that often occurs during a rear-end vehicle collision. This happens when the head is abruptly thrust forward and then backward, much like the motion of a cracking whip. These intense motions force the neck ligaments and muscles beyond their usual range of motion, causing stress and pain.
Severity and Treatment:
An injury can be either severe or mild. Often, initial treatment includes over-the-counter pain medications and applications of ice to the targeted muscles in the neck. If the pain continues, physical therapy and prescription drugs may be necessary.
Most individuals recover in a few weeks, while others may develop ongoing pain after suffering an injury.
Treatment for Whiplash in New York City
Our Approach:
Dr. Karan Johar provides comprehensive care for whiplash injuries. Initial treatments often involve over-the-counter pain medications and ice applications. For persistent pain, Dr. Johar may recommend physical therapy and prescription medications to aid recovery. Known for his compassionate approach, Dr. Johar ensures that each patient receives personalized care to help them return to a pain-free lifestyle.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the hand and arm, causing tingling, numbness, and other unpleasant symptoms. It is generally due to a pinched nerve located in the wrist.
Common Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
Underlying Health Issues: Conditions like diabetes and thyroid dysfunction can increase the risk.
Specific Anatomy of the Wrist: A narrower carpal tunnel can predispose individuals to the condition.
Repetitive Use of Hands: Repetitive motions, such as typing or using hand tools, can contribute to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Anatomy of the Carpal Tunnel:
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist on the palm side, bound by ligaments and bones. It protects the median nerve and nine tendons that bend the fingers. Compression of the median nerve causes the tingling, numbness, and weakness characteristic of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
Numbness or Tingling: These sensations often occur in the thumb, middle, ring, or index fingers, particularly while holding an item like a phone or steering wheel, or at night. The sensation can extend from the wrist up the arm. People may "shake out" their hands and arms to relieve the symptoms. As the condition worsens, numbness may become constant.
Weakness: Weakness in the hands can cause people to drop objects. This is often due to numbness or weakness in the thumb muscles controlled by the median nerve.
Causes:
Carpal tunnel syndrome often occurs when the median nerve is compressed. This nerve runs from the forearm through the carpal tunnel to the hand, providing sensation to the palm side of the fingers (except the pinky) and controlling thumb muscles. Compression can result from factors such as wrist fractures, which narrow the tunnel, or inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in New York City:
Our Approach:
Dr. Karan Johar provides comprehensive care for carpal tunnel syndrome, offering a multidisciplinary approach that includes minimally invasive interventional methods, practical treatments, and effective medication management. Known for his compassionate care, Dr. Johar treats all his patients with respect, helping them achieve a pain-free lifestyle.
Knee Pain at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery
What is Knee Pain?
Knee pain is one of the most common complaints received at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery, affecting individuals of all ages. This condition often results from injuries such as torn cartilage or ruptured ligaments. Medical issues, including gout, infections, and arthritis, are also known to cause knee pain.
Symptoms of Knee Pain:
The severity and location of knee pain often vary depending on the exact cause of the issue. Symptoms and signs that are often associated with knee pain include:
Instability or weakness
Stiffness and swelling
Inability to completely straighten out the knee
Crunching or popping noises
Redness
Warmth to the touch
Knee Injuries:
Knee injuries can affect any of the tendons, ligaments, or bursae (fluid-filled sacs) that surround the knee joints, as well as the ligaments, cartilage, and bones that form the knee joint itself. Common knee injuries include:
Patellar Tendinitis: Inflammation and irritation of the tendons connecting bones to muscles. Cyclists, skiers, runners, and those performing jumping sports are more vulnerable.
ACL Injury: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. Common in sports requiring sudden direction changes like basketball, tennis, and soccer.
Knee Bursitis: Inflammation in and around the bursae, the tiny fluid sacs cushioning the knee joint.
Torn Meniscus: The meniscus, made of rubbery, tough cartilage, can tear if the knee is suddenly twisted while bearing weight.
When to Seek Treatment:
See a specialist if you experience:
Inability to bear weight on the knee
Profound swelling
Inability to flex or extend the knee fully
Visible abnormality in the knee or leg
Fever accompanied by swelling, redness, and pain in the knee
Feeling of instability or that the knee is ready to "give out"
Knee Pain Treatment in New York City
Our Approach:
Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery provides comprehensive care for knee pain. Initial treatments often involve self-care methods, knee braces, and physical therapy. For more severe cases, Dr. Johar may recommend surgery to help alleviate pain and restore function. Known for his compassionate care, Dr. Johar ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment to help them return to a pain-free lifestyle.
Foot & Ankle Injuries at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery
What is a Foot & Ankle Injury?
The ankles and feet work in unison to enable mobility and provide ongoing support to your body. A sprain in the foot or ankle affects the soft tissue areas and occurs when an injury tears, stretches, or pulls the ligaments that connect the bones together. A fracture, on the other hand, is when the bone breaks.
Causes of Foot & Ankle Injuries:
The most common causes of foot and ankle fractures and sprains are injuries, often occurring during sports. Specific causes include:
Sports Injuries: Football players are particularly susceptible to foot and ankle fractures and sprains. Runners may develop painful stress fractures, while basketball players are typically more vulnerable to ankle sprains. Dancers and gymnasts may also develop stress fractures in the foot or ankle.
Accidents: Stumbling or tripping on uneven ground is another frequent cause of ankle and foot fractures and sprains.
Symptoms of Foot & Ankle Injuries:
Typical symptoms of a fractured or sprained ankle or foot include:
Pain
Bruising
Swelling
Tenderness
Difficulty walking on the injured ankle or foot
Caring for Your Injury at Home:
If you’ve injured your ankle or foot, it’s essential to take proper care to allow it to heal. The ‘RICE’ method can help guide you:
REST: Stay off the affected ankle or foot as much as possible until it can be properly assessed. Avoid playing sports, walking, or running on the injured area, as this can worsen the injury.
ICE: Apply ice to the injured area as soon as possible. Continue to apply it every 15-20 minutes every 3-4 hours for the first 48 hours after the injury to reduce inflammation.
COMPRESSION: Wrap an Ace elastic bandage around the injured ankle or foot snugly, but not too tightly. If circulation is cut off, the wrap is too tight.
ELEVATION: Elevate the injured extremity on a few soft pillows, ideally with the ankle or foot higher than your heart to decrease swelling.
When to See a Doctor:
If you’ve seriously injured your ankle or foot, it’s best to see a doctor immediately. A doctor can assess the severity of your injury and create a personalized care plan to help you recover and get back on your feet pain-free.
Treatment for Foot & Ankle Injuries in New York City
Our Approach:
Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery provides expert care for foot and ankle injuries. From initial assessments to creating personalized treatment plans, Dr. Johar ensures that each patient receives the best care possible. Known for his compassionate approach, Dr. Johar helps patients recover and return to a pain-free lifestyle.
Arthritis at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to a wide range of diseases (around 200) that affect the joints, causing pain and impairing the ability to perform everyday activities. Common types of arthritis include lupus, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis can cause various symptoms, leading to chronic pain and joint damage.
Development of Arthritis:
Arthritis can develop in multiple ways:
Injuries: An injury can lead to chronic pain that manifests as arthritis.
Metabolic Issues: Conditions like gout arise from metabolic problems.
Genetics: Family history can increase the risk of developing arthritis.
Infections: Certain infections can trigger arthritis.
Immune System Dysfunctions: Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis occur when the immune system attacks the joints.
Regular physical activity can help lessen and even prevent arthritis pain. Exercise can improve pain levels, function, and mental health.
Treating Arthritis:
Treatments for arthritis aim to control chronic pain, minimize joint damage, and improve quality of life. At Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery, Dr. Karan Johar works with patients to develop personalized treatment plans. These plans often include medications and therapies such as physical therapy.
Early Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis:
Physical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can appear before a diagnosis is made. Look for early signs such as:
Fatigue: Can be difficult to attribute directly to arthritis, so be aware of other symptoms.
Joint Pain: Pain, tenderness, swelling, redness, warmth, or stiffness in the joints.
Loss of Range of Motion: If motion in joints or limbs decreases, seek medical advice.
Treatment for Arthritis:
Treatments for arthritis focus on pain relief and improving joint function. Each case is unique, and Dr. Johar will tailor treatments to find the best solution for you.
Medications:
The type of medication depends on the specific arthritis condition. Common medications include:
Analgesics: Reduce pain without affecting inflammation (e.g., Tylenol, Percocet, Oxycontin).
Counterirritants: Creams and ointments that inhibit pain signals (applied to affected areas).
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Treat pain and inflammation (e.g., Advil, Motrin). Consult with a specialist before use.
Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Prevent the immune system from attacking the joints.
Biologic Response Modifiers: Target protein molecules involved in the immune response (used with DMARDs).
Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system to treat pain.
Arthritis Pain Management in New York City
Our Approach:
Dr. Karan Johar is dedicated to your well-being, treating all patients with compassion and respect. He employs a multidisciplinary approach, using minimally invasive interventional methods, practical treatments, and effective medication management.
Are You Suffering from Lower Back Pain?
Lower back pain is one of the most common ailments among adults in America, affecting nearly 80 percent of people during their lifetime. It occurs in both men and women and is the most common cause of job-related disability and a major reason for missed work and treatment for back injury. While most back pain resolves on its own, many people suffer from chronic lower back pain.
Treatment for Lower Back Pain:
Treatment for lower back pain ranges from simple rest and icing to surgical procedures, with many options in between. The best treatment solution depends on the severity and cause of your pain. Only a specialist can accurately set a recovery plan based on your situation.
Living with Lower Back Pain:
Symptoms of lower back pain are similar to those of a pinched nerve, including:
Tingling
Numbness
Pain radiating along the nerve path
Sensations of acute pins and needles
As the condition worsens, you may experience reflex and muscular weakness. Symptoms are typically felt in the legs or arms, depending on where the condition originates. Lower back pain will impact the area from the buttocks down, while pain originating in the neck area generally affects the upper extremities.
Back Pain Treatment in New York City:
Do you suffer from any of these symptoms? Schedule a visit with Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery to get on the road to recovery as soon as possible.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is characterized by a sideways curvature in an otherwise normally straight spine. Ideally, the spine should have a slight roundness in the upper back and a mild inward curvature (swayback) in the lower back when viewed from the side. In an individual with a normal spine, the spine appears straight when viewed from the back or front. However, in someone with scoliosis, the spine looks curved.
Scoliosis can cause ongoing, severe back pain. At Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery, Dr. Karan Johar helps patients effectively manage scoliosis-related pain. Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Causes of Scoliosis
There are various causes and types of scoliosis, including:
Degenerative Type: Resulting from traumatic bone collapse, osteoporosis, or previous major back surgery.
Congenital Type: Due to a bone irregularity present at birth.
Idiopathic Type: The most common type, with no identifiable cause. There is strong evidence suggesting it may be inherited.
Neuromuscular Type: Caused by irregular nerves or muscles, often seen in individuals with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or disorders that result in paralysis.
Who Gets Scoliosis?
Nearly 2-3 percent of Americans have scoliosis by age 16. Less than 0.1 percent have spinal curves over 40 degrees, which may require surgical consideration. Girls are more frequently affected than boys. The idiopathic type commonly affects adolescents aged 10 to 16 and can progress during growth spurts but typically does not progress in adulthood.
Most children diagnosed with scoliosis do not require treatment, as it often resolves naturally as they grow. For those needing treatment, a back brace is usually effective, and only a small percentage require surgery. Untreated scoliosis can lead to severe lung, heart, pelvis, chest, and spine damage.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Most scoliosis cases are first noticed during school screening tests, by a family doctor, pediatrician, or parent. Signs include:
Uneven waist
Prominent shoulder blade
Uneven shoulders
Managing Scoliosis
If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of scoliosis, schedule a visit with Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery. We provide personalized treatment plans to manage pain and improve quality of life.
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is not actually a disease but rather a term used to describe the natural changes that occur in your spinal discs as you age. Spinal discs are soft, compressible discs that separate your vertebrae, the interlocking bones that form the structure of your spine. These discs act as shock absorbers, allowing your spine to twist, bend, and flex. DDD can occur anywhere along the spine, although it typically affects the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) areas.
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease
Changes within your discs can lead to back and/or neck pain and may cause:
Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, the space that carries the spinal cord.
Herniated Disc: An irregular bulge or rupture of a spinal disc.
Osteoarthritis: Deterioration of the cartilage that cushions and protects the joints.
These conditions can put undue pressure on your nerves and spinal cord, leading to pain and potentially impacting nerve function.
Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease
As you age, your spinal discs begin to deteriorate, which can lead to DDD. Some age-related changes include:
Small Cracks or Tears: The exterior layer (annulus) of your disc may develop small cracks or tears. The soft, jelly-like material inside the disc (nucleus) can leak out, causing the disc to bulge, rupture, and fragment.
Fluid Loss: Discs lose fluid over time, decreasing their effectiveness as shock absorbers and making them less flexible. This fluid loss causes the discs to thin and shortens the distance between vertebrae.
Risk Factors
These spinal changes are more likely to occur in individuals who:
Perform strenuous physical labor, such as heavy lifting.
Smoke.
Are overweight or obese.
An acute injury, such as a fall that results in a herniated disc, can also trigger the degeneration process. As the spaces between vertebrae narrow and the cushioning diminishes, the spine becomes less stable. The body may respond by forming bone spurs (osteophytes), which can put excessive pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to pain and potential nerve function impairment.
Managing Degenerative Disc Disease
If you are experiencing symptoms of DDD, it is important to seek medical advice. Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery provides comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans to manage pain and improve spinal health.
Sports Injuries and Pain
Sports injuries can affect anyone, from professional athletes to casual enthusiasts. As more people strive to stay healthy and active, the incidence of sports-related injuries is increasing. Various factors contribute to these injuries, but pain management doctors are here to help manage the pain and facilitate recovery.
When Should You Seek Treatment for Sports-Related Pain?
It’s essential to seek medical advice sooner rather than later. Ignoring sports injury pain can lead to chronic conditions with debilitating symptoms lasting for years. The first step after a sports injury is to obtain a proper diagnosis through a full orthopedic and neurological examination. Dr. Karan Johar uses advanced imaging technologies, including fluoroscopy, ultrasound, and traditional x-rays, to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Common Sports-Related Injuries
Approximately 1 million Americans are injured each year while playing sports. Sports injuries often involve the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints. Common injuries include:
Knee Pain: Strains, sprains, meniscus tears, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, and runner's knee.
Back, Neck & Spine Pain: Herniated or bulging discs, spinal compression fractures, and trauma.
Golfer’s or Tennis Elbow: Overuse injuries affecting the elbow and back.
Running Injuries: Shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, heel, and arch pain.
Shoulder Pain: Torn or inflamed rotator cuff, dislocations, and bursitis.
Foot or Ankle Pain: Sprains, stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and ankle instability.
Women Athletes: Health issues particularly affecting female athletes.
Managing Sports Injuries
Most sports injuries are related to overuse, causing wear and tear on body tissues, especially in areas repeatedly subjected to activity such as the knee, ankle, or shoulder. Tennis elbow is a common example of an overuse injury.
Dr. Karan Johar takes a comprehensive approach tailored to physically active individuals who want to stay that way. He focuses on identifying the root cause of your pain and creating a treatment plan to help you recover and prevent re-injury.
Get Back in the Game
Don’t let a sports injury keep you on the sidelines. Dr. Johar has the expertise, skill, and passion to help you return to your activities and prevent re-injury. He offers non-surgical treatments for a wide range of sports-related injuries.
What is Radiculitis (Inflamed Nerves)?
Radiculitis describes the neurological symptoms that occur when a nerve is inflamed, irritated, compressed, or pinched. It is not a technical condition, but it can cause significant pain and discomfort. Radiculitis can affect any nerve extending from the spine, but it is most commonly seen in the neck or lower back. A typical form of this pain is sciatica, which involves radicular pain running along the sciatic nerve from the lower spine through the lower back, buttocks, back of the thigh, and down to the calf and foot.
Symptoms of Radiculitis
Symptoms of radiculitis are similar to those of a pinched nerve and may include:
Tingling
Numbness
Radiating pain along the nerve path
Sensations of acute pins and needles
As the condition worsens, loss of reflexes and muscular weakness may develop. Symptoms are felt in the legs or arms, depending on where the condition originates. Lower back radiculitis affects the body from the buttocks down, while neck radiculitis generally affects the upper extremities.
Treatment for Radiculitis
If you suffer from these symptoms, schedule a visit with Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery to find the right treatment for you.
What is Lumbar Radiculitis?
Lumbar radiculitis is characterized by nerve root compression in the lower spine (lumbar region). Sciatica is a common form of this condition, typically felt as acute pain running down the lower body. It is commonly caused by the compression of nerve roots due to lumbar disc herniation or bone spurs in the lumbar spine.
Treatment Options
Proper treatment for radiculitis involves addressing the underlying problem. Initial treatment plans often include:
Rest
Stretching and exercising
Anti-inflammatory medication
If the condition has progressed, physical therapy may be recommended. Surgical procedures are considered only after traditional methods have been tried.
Comprehensive Care
Dr. Karan Johar offers a wide range of treatment options, including several advanced treatments not available at other practices. Known for treating patients with respect and compassion, Dr. Johar takes a multidisciplinary approach, using minimally invasive interventional techniques, functional treatment, and effective medication management.
Radiculitis Treatment in New York City
Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery is dedicated to your well-being, providing compassionate care and effective treatment. He employs a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating minimally invasive methods and practical treatments to manage radiculitis.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc occurs when there is a problem with one of the rubber-like cushions (discs) between the vertebrae, the individual bones that stack to form your spine.
A spinal disc is similar to a jelly-filled doughnut, with a soft center encased by a tougher exterior. Sometimes referred to as a ruptured or slipped disc, a herniated disc typically happens when the soft inner material pushes out through a crack in the outer layer. This condition can irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain, weakness, or numbness in the leg or arm. Many people, however, may not experience any symptoms and might be unaware they have a herniated disc.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
Pain from a herniated disc can be debilitating and frustrating. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the herniated disc:
Neck (Cervical Spine): Pain when moving the neck, intense pain near the shoulder blade, or pain that travels to the upper arm, fingers, and forearm. Some people experience numbness in the fingers, forearm, elbow, and shoulder.
Lower Back (Lumbar Spine): Acute pain in one or both legs, buttocks, or hips, as well as numbness in other areas that radiates.
The pain usually starts slowly and may worsen with activities such as:
Walking short distances
Bending backward
At night
Laughing, coughing, or sneezing
Sitting or standing for extended periods
You may also experience muscle weakness, difficulty lifting your arm or leg, tightly squeezing one of your hands, or standing on your toes on one side.
Causes of a Herniated Disc
Disc herniation is often the result of age-related wear and tear on the spine, known as disc degeneration. As people age, the discs in the spine lose water content, making them less flexible and more prone to rupturing or tearing with minimal strain or twisting.
Most individuals have difficulty identifying the exact cause of their herniated disc. Common causes include:
Lifting Heavy Objects: Using back muscles instead of thigh and leg muscles to lift heavy items can lead to a herniated disc.
Twisting or Turning While Lifting: Improper lifting techniques can cause disc rupture.
Trauma: A blow to the back or a fall can cause a herniated disc, although this is rare.
Managing Herniated Discs
If you are experiencing symptoms of a herniated disc, it is important to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery provides comprehensive care for herniated discs, offering personalized treatment plans to alleviate pain and improve spinal health.
Muscle Spasms
Lower Back Muscle Spasms
A lower back muscle spasm is a sudden, involuntary contraction, tightening, or shaking of a muscle. These spasms can cause significant pain and often occur due to trauma, strain, overuse, weakness, or improper body mechanics over time. It may not stem from a single event but rather a culmination of improper actions such as standing, sitting, or lifting incorrectly. Then, one simple movement, like reaching for something in the shower or bending at the waist, can trigger the pain.
Lower back pain is the second most common reason people seek medical attention in the U.S., next to colds and flu. Most individuals will experience at least one episode of back pain in their lives. The lower back is the most common area for pain because it supports most of the body’s weight.
Cervical Muscle Spasms
The cervical spine, responsible for turning the head and neck, provides stability and supports the structures connecting the brain with the rest of the central nervous system. Irritation or injury in the cervical spine can cause spasms and pain in the neck muscles.
Considerations
Lower back or cervical pain may be acute (short-term), lasting less than one month, or chronic (long-term), lasting longer than three months. While it is common to experience acute back pain more than once, continuous long-term pain is not. Many back pains will heal on their own, but there’s no reason to suffer when you can get help from Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery.
Treatments for Muscle Spasms
Rest is the first recommended treatment for muscle spasms. Prolonged bed rest is not beneficial and can worsen the condition. Dr. Johar suggests resting for the first 48 hours after experiencing a muscle spasm, then gradually increasing activity. Moving as soon as spasms and sharp pains subside can help ease pain and stiffness. Other conservative treatments include applying ice, physical therapy, and non-steroidal medications to reduce inflammation. Return to activity should be gradual to prevent a recurrence of symptoms.
Getting Help
If you are experiencing muscle spasms, schedule a visit with Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia can cause significant discomfort and frustration for those suffering from it. While the exact causes of this disorder are still debated among medical experts, advances in treatment have been made in recent years. Below is an overview of the condition, its symptoms and types, and available treatment options.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by tenderness and pain in the joints, muscles, and other soft tissues. It is often associated with sleep issues, fatigue, depression, and headaches. Over 12 million Americans are estimated to suffer from fibromyalgia, with the condition affecting women between the ages of 25 and 60 ten times more often than men.
Symptoms and Types
Primary symptoms include pain and general achiness in the shoulders, back, and hips. Other symptoms can include sensitivity to hot or cold, headaches, incontinence, and difficulty concentrating. There are three specific types of fibromyalgia:
Hyperalgesia: Increased sensitivity to pain, where discomfort is heightened to extreme levels.
Allodynia: Painful sensations from stimuli that are not usually painful, primarily affecting the skin. For example, certain types of material or clothing can cause discomfort.
Paresthesia: Sensations of burning or tingling on the skin. Limbs may feel prickly, fall asleep, or become temporarily numb.
Treatment
There are various treatments available to help lessen the symptoms of fibromyalgia:
Medications: A variety of prescription drugs can help manage symptoms.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can be effective in treating the condition.
Lifestyle Changes: Staying active with low-impact activities like walking or swimming can help reduce stress and discomfort in muscles and joints.
Herbs and Supplements: Some herbs and supplements may help alleviate symptoms.
Although fibromyalgia is a chronic condition, its symptoms can be effectively managed. Once a diagnosis is made, Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery will set up a specific course of treatment tailored to your needs.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, working to keep the head of the upper arm bone firmly within the shoulder's shallow socket. An injury to the rotator cuff can cause a dull pain in the shoulder that often worsens when you try to sleep on the affected side.
Rotator cuff injuries commonly occur in individuals who perform repetitive overhead movements, whether through sports or occupational activities. Examples include carpenters, construction workers, painters, and athletes like tennis or baseball players. The risk of injury also increases with age.
Many people recover from rotator cuff injuries with ongoing physical therapy that enhances flexibility and strengthens the shoulder muscles. However, severe injuries, such as complete tendon or muscle tears, may require surgical repair.
Symptoms
Pain associated with a rotator cuff injury may include:
Weakness in the arm
A dull ache or throbbing deep within the shoulder
Difficulty reaching behind your back or combing your hair
Disturbed sleep, especially when lying on the injured shoulder
Causes
Common causes of rotator cuff injuries include:
Pulling or Lifting: Lifting heavy items, especially overhead, can strain or tear muscles or tendons.
Falling: Falling directly on your arm or using it to break a fall can bruise or tear a muscle or tendon.
Bone Spurs: Small bone overgrowths on the shoulder blade can irritate and damage the tendon.
Repetitive Stress: Repeated overhead movements can stress the shoulder tendons and muscles, causing inflammation and tears.
Risk Factors
Factors that increase the risk of rotator cuff injuries include:
Construction Work: Jobs that involve repetitive arm movements, particularly overhead, such as painting or carpentry, can cause damage over time.
Sports: Athletes who frequently use repetitive arm motions, such as baseball pitchers, tennis players, or archers, are at greater risk of injury.
Age: The risk of shoulder injuries increases with age, with tears being common in individuals over the age of 40.
Treatment
If you suspect a rotator cuff injury, it’s essential to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Dr. Karan Johar at Park Avenue Medicine & Surgery offers comprehensive care, including physical therapy and surgical options for severe cases.