haronian

Kelli shares her experience with Edwin Haronian MD. She raves about no longer experiencing back pain after visiting Synapse Orthopedic Group. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Meet Raquel, she suffered from a mass on her hand and had it surgically removed. She is extremely happy with the care that Synapse Orthopedic Group has provided her and is really glad that she underwent surgery with Edwin Haronian MD. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Another carpal tunnel release patient doing better after surgery with Edwin Haronian MD. She is in the process of waiting for her left hand to be approved. She looks forward to the future and is ready to finish her treatment so that she can get back to work. She loves her treatment and loves coming to our Sherman Oaks office. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles During open carpal tunnel release surgery , the transverse carpal ligament is cut, which releases pressure on the median nerve and relieves the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. An incision is made at the base of the palm of the hand. This allows the doctor to see the transverse carpal ligament. After the ligament is cut, the skin is closed with stitches. The gap where the ligament was cut is left alone and eventually fills up with scar tissue. If you have open carpal tunnel release surgery, you typically do not need to stay in the hospital. It is usually done under local anesthetic, and you can go home on the same day. After surgery, the hand is wrapped. The stitches are removed 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. The pain and numbness may go away right after surgery or may take several months to subside. Try to avoid heavy use of your hand for up to 3 months. The timing of your return to work depends on the type of surgery you had, whether the surgery was on your dominant hand (the hand you use most), and your work activities. If you had open surgery on your dominant hand and you do repeated actions at work, you may be able to return to work in 6 to 8 weeks. Repeated motions include typing or assembly-line work. If the surgery was on the other hand and you do not do repeated actions at work, you may be able to return to work in 7 to 14 days. If you had endoscopic surgery, you may be able to return to work sooner than with open surgery. Open carpal tunnel surgery is considered when: Symptoms are still present after a long period of nonsurgical treatment. In general, surgery is not considered until after several weeks to months of nonsurgical treatment. But this assumes that you are having ongoing symptoms but no sign of nerve damage. Nerve damage would make surgery more urgent. Severe symptoms (such as persistent loss of feeling or coordination in the fingers or hand, or no strength in the thumb) restrict normal daily activities. There is damage to the median nerve (shown by nerve test results and loss of hand or finger function), or a risk of nerve damage. Tumors or other growths need to be removed. Most people who have surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome have fewer or no symptoms of pain and numbness in their hand after surgery. In rare cases, the symptoms of pain and numbness may return (the most common complication), or there may be temporary loss of strength when pinching or gripping an object, due to the cutting of the transverse carpal ligament. If the thumb muscles have been severely weakened or wasted away, hand strength and function may be limited even after surgery. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Eric injured his back in a car accident. Since his injury he began doing research on how to eliminate his pain. After learning about Synapse Orthopedic Group's Jonathan Kohan MD, he began treatment with him. Eric is now receiving epidural steroid injections which have been helping his pain. Before receiving epidural injections please consult with your doctor. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles Many spinal conditions, including a lumbar herniated disc, can cause inflammation or pressure on the nerve roots leading out of the spine, resulting in pain, tingling, or numbness along those nerves. A lumbar epidural steroid injection may be used to reduce the inflammation around the spinal nerves. During the procedure, the patient lies down with a cushion underneath their stomach to increase flexion in the lumbar spine, giving more room for the needle to pass through. First, a local anesthetic is used to numb the skin above the injection site. Using X-rays, the needle is guided into the epidural space. Contrast dye is injected to confirm the proper placement of the needle in the epidural space. The injection itself may include local anesthetic and/or saline along with the steroid medication to give immediate pain relief and flush the area of inflammatory agents. The mixture is injected and the steroid acts to reduce the inflammation around the spinal nerve roots. The needle is removed and a small bandage is placed on the injection site. The patient is monitored for a short time before being discharged home. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Laronda has been a patient of Edwin Haronian MD for some time now. Since her treatment with us, she has been improving her quality of life. Before seeing Dr. Haronian she couldn't get out of bed, she needed help with almost everything that she did. She is now getting back to living a normal life, at Synapse Orthopedic Group, we are glad we could help and can continue to guide her through rehabilitation. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Louis shares his experience with Edwin Haronian MD at Synapse Orthopedic Group's Sherman Oaks location. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor Synapse Orthopedic Group 5651 Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 201 Sherman Oaks, CA 91411 http://www.synapsedoctor.com

Carmen Herrera has experienced severe chronic pain effecting her everyday life. She is currently being treated by Edwin Haronian MD and is satisfied with the treatment and recovery she has received since seeing him. No one deserves to live in constant pain. If you or anyone you know suffer from pain, contact us. We will put you in touch with a specialist dedicated to providing you the correct diagnosis. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

No one should have to live with chronic pain. Synapse Orthopedic Group's Jonathan Kohan is a Board Certified Anesthesiologist and specialist in Pain Management. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition most often affecting one of the limbs (arms, legs, hands, or feet), usually after an injury or trauma to that limb. CRPS is believed to be caused by damage to, or malfunction of, the peripheral and central nervous systems. The central nervous system is composed of the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system involves nerve signaling from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. CRPS is characterized by prolonged or excessive pain and mild or dramatic changes in skin color, temperature, and/or swelling in the affected area. There are two similar forms, called CRPS-I and CRPS-II, with the same symptoms and treatments. CRPS-II (previously called causalgia) is the term used for patients with confirmed nerve injuries. Individuals without confirmed nerve injury are classified as having CRPS-I (previously called reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome). Some research has identified evidence of nerve injury in CRPS-I, so the validity of the two different forms is being investigated. CRPS symptoms vary in severity and duration. Studies of the incidence and prevalence of the disease show that most cases are mild and individuals recover gradually with time. In more severe cases, individuals may not recover and may have long-term disability. Anyone can get CRPS. It can strike at any age and affects both men and women, although it is much more common in women. The average age of affected individuals is about age 40. CRPS is rare in the elderly. Children do not get it before age 5 and only very rarely before age 10, but it is not uncommon in teenagers. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Patricia came to Synapse Orthopedic Group after having multiple surgeries and experiencing sever lower back pain radiating to her legs. Edwin Haronian MD took her in as a patient, regardless of her case being denied, and provided her with the treatment she deserved. No one deserves to experience pain that effects their quality of life. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

ins or strains. Obesity, smoking, weight gain during pregnancy, stress, poor physical condition, poor posture and poor sleeping position may also contribute to low back pain. A full list of possible causes includes many less common conditions. Physical causes may include osteoarthritis, degeneration of the discs between the vertebrae or a spinal disc herniation, broken vertebra(e) (such as from osteoporosis) or, rarely, an infection or tumor of the spine. Low back pain can be broadly classified into four main categories: Musculoskeletal - mechanical (including muscle strain, muscle spasm, or osteoarthritis); herniated nucleus pulposus, herniated disk; spinal stenosis; or compression fracture Inflammatory - HLA-B27 associated arthritis including ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease Malignancy - bone metastasis from lung, breast, prostate, thyroid, among others Infectious - osteomyelitis; abscess For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

On October 20th, we had our annual blood drive at our Sherman Oaks office located at: 5651 Sepulveda Blvd. Sherman Oaks, CA 91411 with the City of Hope. We would like to thank everyone who came out and joined us, your donation helped alot. We encourage everyone to donate because there are also many benefits to donating. Visit us on our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com (818) 788-2400 Patients at City of Hope – most of whom are fighting cancer – rely on more than 37,000 units of blood and platelets each year for their survival. And every one of those units comes from people like you – family, friends and other caring individuals who want to make a difference. Quick Facts About the Blood Donation Process Blood donation is a simple, four-step process: registration, medical history and mini-physical, donation and refreshments. It is a safe process, and a sterile needle is used only once for each donor and then discarded. The actual blood donation typically takes less than 10-12 minutes. The entire process, from the time you arrive to the time you leave, takes about an hour and 15 minutes. The average adult has about 10 pints of blood in his body. Roughly one pint is given during a donation. A healthy donor may donate red blood cells every 56 days, or double red cells every 112 days. There are four types of transfusable products that can be derived from blood: red cells, platelets, plasma and cryoprecipitate. Typically, two or three of these are produced from a pint of donated whole blood — hence each donation can help save more than one life. Why Donate Blood? You don’t need a special reason to give blood; you just need your own reason. Some of us give blood because we were asked by a friend. Some know that a family member or a friend might need blood some day. Some believe it is the right thing we do. The number one reason donors say they give blood is because they “want to help others.” Whatever your reason, the need is constant and your contribution is important for a healthy and reliable blood supply. And you’ll feel good knowing you’ve helped change a life.

Ron Victor was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. CRPS is a chronic pain disorder that gets worse over time. Since coming to Synapse Orthopedic Group, he has been treated by Edwin Haronian MD and Jonathan Kohan MD and feels much better. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles Complex regional pain syndrome is an uncommon form of chronic pain that usually affects an arm or a leg. Complex regional pain syndrome typically develops after an injury, surgery, stroke or heart attack, but the pain is out of proportion to the severity of the initial injury. The cause of complex regional pain syndrome isn't clearly understood. Treatment for complex regional pain syndrome is most effective when started early. In such cases, improvement and even remission are possible. Signs and symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome include: Continous burning or throbbing pain, usually in your arm, leg, hand or foot Sensitivity to touch or cold Swelling of the painful area Changes in skin temperature — at times your skin may be sweaty; at other times it may be cold Changes in skin color, which can range from white and mottled to red or blue Changes in skin texture, which may become tender, thin or shiny in the affected area Changes in hair and nail growth Joint stiffness, swelling and damage Muscle spasms, weakness and loss (atrophy) Decreased ability to move the affected body part Symptoms may change over time and vary from person to person. Most commonly, pain, swelling, redness, noticeable changes in temperature and hypersensitivity (particularly to cold and touch) occur first. Over time, the affected limb can become cold and pale and undergo skin and nail changes as well as muscle spasms and tightening. Once these changes occur, the condition is often irreversible. Complex regional pain syndrome occasionally may spread from its source to elsewhere in your body, such as the opposite limb. The pain may be worsened by emotional stress. In some people, signs and symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome go away on their own. In others, signs and symptoms may persist for months to years. Treatment is likely to be most effective when started early in the course of the illness. If you experience constant, severe pain that affects a limb and makes touching or moving that limb seem intolerable, see your doctor to determine the cause. It's important to treat complex regional pain syndrome early. Complex regional pain syndrome occurs in two types, with similar signs and symptoms, but different causes: Type 1. Also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome, this type occurs after an illness or injury that didn't directly damage the nerves in your affected limb. About 90 percent of people with complex regional pain syndrome have type 1. Type 2. Once referred to as causalgia, this type follows a distinct nerve injury. Many cases of complex regional pain syndrome occur after a forceful trauma to an arm or a leg, such as a crush injury, fracture or amputation. Other major and minor traumas — such as surgery, heart attacks, infections and even sprained ankles — also can lead to complex regional pain syndrome. Emotional stress may be a precipitating factor, as well. It's not well-understood why these injuries can trigger complex regional pain syndrome, but it may be due to a dysfunctional interaction between your central and peripheral nervous systems and inappropriate inflammatory responses. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

At Synapse Orthopedic Group we strive to take great care of our patients from the moment they walk into our office. Nora has been receiving treatment from Edwin Haronian MD. She shares how happy she is with all the care she has received. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Meet Juan. He injured his back at work resulting in losing feeling in the nerves of his legs. Due to the damaged discs from this injury, he had problems feeling his toes and walking became extremely difficult. At Synapse Orthopedic Group, Edwin Haronian MD was able to diagnose him with Myelopathy. Haronian performed lumbar surgery on Juan and only two weeks after surgery, Juan was walking and feeling his nerves again. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles Disk herniation is a breakdown of a fibrous cartilage material (annulus fibrosis) that makes up the intervertebral disk. The annulus fibrosis surrounds a soft gel-like substance in the center of the disk called the nucleus pulposus. Pressure from the vertebrae above and below may cause the nucleus pulposus to be forced against the sides of the annulus. The constant pressure of the nucleus against the sides of the annulus will cause the fibers of the annulus to break down. As the fibers of the annulus break down, the nucleus will push toward the outside of the annulus and cause the disk to bulge in the direction of the pressure. This condition most frequently occurs in the lumbar region and is also commonly called a herniated nucleus pulposus, prolapsed disk, ruptured disk, or a slipped disk. The spinal column is made up of 24 vertebrae that are joined together and permit forward and backward bending, side bending, and rotation of the spine. There are seven cervical (neck), twelve thoracic (chest region), and five lumbar (low back) vertebra. There are intervertebral disks between each of the 24 vertebrae as well as a disk between the lowest lumbar vertebrae and the large bone at the base of the spine called the sacrum. Disk herniation most commonly affects the lumbar region. However, disk herniation can also occur in the cervical spine. The incidence of cervical disk herniation is most common between the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae. The second most common area for cervical disk herniation occurs between the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae. Disk herniation is uncommon in the thoracic region. The peak age for occurrence of disk herniation is between 20 and 45 years of age. Studies have shown that males are more commonly affected than females in lumbar disk herniation by a 3:2 ratio. Long periods of sitting or a bent-forward work posture may lead to an increased incidence of disk herniation. There are four classifications of disk pathology: A protrusion occurs when a disk bulges without rupturing the annulus fibrosis. A prolapse occurs when the nucleus pulposus pushes to the outermost fibers of the annulus fibrosis but does not break through them. An extrusion occurs when the outermost layer of the annulus fibrosis is torn and the material of the nucleus moves into the epidural space. A sequestration occurs when fragments from the annulus fibrosis or the nucleus pulposus have broken free and lie outside the confines of the disk. Any direct or, forceful in a vertical direction pressure on the disks can cause the disk to push its nucleus into the fibers of the annulus or into the intervertebral canal. A herniated disk may occur suddenly from lifting, twisting, or direct injury, but more often it will occur from constant compressive loads over time. There may be a single incident that causes symptoms to be felt, but very often the disk was already damaged and bulging prior to any one particular incident. Depending on the location of the herniation, the herniated material can also press directly on nerve roots or on the spinal cord. Pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord may cause a shock-like pain sensation down the arms if the herniation is in the cervical vertebrae or down the legs if the herniation is in the lumbar region. In the lumbar region a herniation that presses on the nerve roots or the spinal cord may also cause weakness, numbness, or problems with bowels, bladder, or sexual function. It is unclear if a herniated disk causes pain by itself without pressing on neurological structures. It is likely that irritation of the disk or the adjacent nerve roots may cause muscle spasm and pain in the region of the disk pathology. Several radiographic tests are useful for confirming a diagnosis of disk herniation and locating the source of pain. X rays show structural changes of the lumbar spine. Myelography is a special x ray of the spine in which a dye or air is injected into the patient's spinal canal. The patient lies strapped to a table as the table tilts in various directions and spot x rays are taken. X rays showing a narrowed dye column in the intervertebral disk area indicate possible disk herniation. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Meet Thelma. Thelma is a previous patient of Edwin Haronian MD and Jonathan Kohan MD. Due to some life changing events, she had to stop coming to Synapse Orthopedic Group. She is now back at our office and looks forward to being treated again for an injury to her back. She feels confident with the doctors here at Synapse. She is doctors cared, followed up, and always showed their concern for her condition. We look forward to treating her and we wish her the best during her treatment. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles Radiculopathy refers to a set of conditions in which one or more nerves are affected and do not work properly (a neuropathy). The location of the injury is at the level of the nerve root (radix = "root"). This can result in pain (radicular pain), weakness, numbness, or difficulty controlling specific muscles. In a radiculopathy, the problem occurs at or near the root of the nerve, shortly after its exit from the spinal cord. However, the pain or other symptoms often radiate to the part of the body served by that nerve. For example, a nerve root impingement in the neck can produce pain and weakness in the forearm. Likewise, an impingement in the lower back or lumbar-sacral spine can be manifested with symptoms in the foot. The radicular pain that results from a radiculopathy should not be confused with referred pain, which is different both in mechanism and clinical features. Polyradiculopathy refers to the condition where more than one spinal nerve root is affected. Radiculopathy is a mechanical compression of a nerve root usually at the exit foramen or lateral recess. It may be secondary to degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, facet joint degeneration/hypertrophy, ligamentous hypertrophy, spondylolisthesis, or a combination of these factors. More rare causes of radiculopathy may include radiation, diabetes mellitus, neoplastic disease, or any meningeal-based disease process.[citation needed]. Second-stage Lyme meningitis resembles aseptic meningitis and is often associated with radiculopathies. Radiculopathy is a diagnosis commonly made by physicians in primary care specialities, orthopedics, physiatry, and neurology. The diagnosis may be suggested by symptoms of pain, numbness, and weakness in a pattern consistent with the distribution of a particular nerve root. Neck pain or back pain may also be present. Physical examination may reveal motor and sensory deficits in the distribution of a nerve root. In the case of cervical radiculopathy, Spurling's test may elicit or reproduce symptoms radiating down the arm. In the case of lumbosacral radiculopathy, a Straight leg raise maneuver may exacerbate radiculopathic symptoms. Deep tendon reflexes (also known as a Stretch reflex) may be diminished or absent in areas innervated by a particular nerve root. Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain. It occurs when there is impingement of tendons or bursa in the shoulder from bones of the shoulder. Overhead activity of the shoulder, especially repeated activity, is a risk factor for shoulder impingement syndrome. Examples include: painting, lifting, swimming, tennis, and other overhead sports. Other risk factors include bone and joint abnormalities. With impingiment syndrome, pain is persistent and affects everyday activities. Motions such as reaching up behind the back or reaching up overhead to put on a coat or blouse, for example, may cause pain. Over time, impingement syndrome can lead to inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons (tendinitis) and bursa (bursitis). If not treated appropriately, the rotator cuff tendons can start to thin and tear. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

This year we hosted hole 13 for the 5th Annual Latino Comp Golf Tournament at the Brookside Golf Course in Pasadena. We met so many great people and we hope to run into them again. Thank you for inviting us Latino Comp. We had a great time and we can't wait till next time. If you or anyone would like to get involved with the next Latino Comp event. Visit there website at http://www.latinocomp.org If we met on the golf course, feel free to contact Duni anytime. Duni (Marketing Manager) duni@synapsedoctor.com Visit our website at http://www.synapsedoctor.com We look forward to hearing from you. #synapsedoctor In 1995, a group of legal professionals met in order to provide a support system for sole practitioners in workers' compensation. The first meeting involved a few individuals at a law office in East Los Angeles. At those Meetings, we exchanged forms, discussed strategy, evaluated problem cases, and brought each other up to date on current case law. Building on initial successes, these Founders formalized the association for the purpose of enhancing the quality of representation at the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board. Under the Mexican American Bar Association (MABA), we established a Workers' Compensation Sub-Committee. The sub-committee invited the best and brightest minds in the industry to provide educational seminars on selected workers' compensation topics. As our organization grew, we sought to include the entire workers' compensation community. Now, our membership includes defense attorneys, hearing representatives, lien representatives, rehabilitation counselors, interpreters, medical providers and attorney support services. In order to better serve our community, we have reorganized as a non-profit organization, Latino Comp.

This particular patient injured her back. Since her injury, she was not able to walk which led her to meet Synapse Orthopedic Group's Edwin Haronian MD. She later received surgery on her back and since her surgery, she can now walk again and is recovering on a day to day basis. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure used to correct problems with the small bones of the spine (vertebrae). It is essentially a "welding" process. The basic idea is to fuse together the painful vertebrae so that they heal into a single, solid bone. Spine surgery is usually recommended only when your doctor can pinpoint the source of your pain. To do this, your doctor may use imaging tests, such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Spinal fusion may relieve symptoms of many back conditions, including: Degenerative disk disease Spondylolisthesis Spinal stenosis Scoliosis Fracture Infection Tumor Understanding how your spine works will help you better understand spinal fusion. Spinal fusion eliminates motion between vertebrae. It also prevents the stretching of nerves and surrounding ligaments and muscles. It is an option when motion is the source of pain, such as movement that occurs in a part of the spine that is arthritic. The theory is if the painful vertebrae do not move, they should not hurt. If you have leg pain in addition to back pain, your surgeon may also perform a decompression (laminectomy). This procedure involves removing bone and diseased tissues that can put pressure on spinal nerves. Fusion will take away some spinal flexibility, but most spinal fusions involve only small segments of the spine and do not limit motion very much. Lumbar spinal fusion has been performed for decades. There are several different techniques that may be used to fuse the spine. There are also different "approaches" your surgeon can take for your procedure. Your surgeon may approach your spine from the front. This is an anterior approach and requires an incision in the lower abdomen. A posterior approach is done from your back. Or your surgeon may approach your spine from the side, called a lateral approach. Minimally invasive techniques have also been developed. These allow fusions to be performed with smaller incisions. The right procedure for you will depend on the nature and location of your disease. Bone Grafting All spinal fusions use some type of bone material, called a bone graft, to help promote the fusion. Generally, small pieces of bone are placed into the space between the vertebrae to be fused. A bone graft is primarily used to stimulate bone healing. It increases bone production and helps the vertebrae heal together into a solid bone. Sometimes larger, solid pieces are used to provide immediate structural support to the vertebrae. In the past, a bone graft harvested from the patient's hip was the only option for fusing the vertebrae. This type of graft is called an autograft. Harvesting a bone graft requires an additional incision during the operation. It lengthens surgery and can cause increased pain after the operation. One alternative to harvesting a bone graft is an allograft, which is cadaver bone. An allograft is typically acquired through a bone bank. Today, several artificial bone graft materials have also been developed. Demineralized bone matrices (DBMs). Calcium is removed from cadaver bone to create DBMs. Without the mineral, the bone can be changed into a putty or gel-like consistency. DBMs are usually combined with other grafts, and may contain proteins that help in bone healing. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). These very powerful synthetic bone-forming proteins promote a solid fusion. They are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in the spine in certain situations. Autografts may not be needed when BMPs are used. Ceramics. Synthetic calcium/phosphate materials are similar in shape and consistency to autograft bone. Your surgeon will discuss with you the type of bone graft material that will work best for your condition and procedure. Immobilization After bone grafting, the vertebrae need to be held together to help the fusion progress. Your surgeon may suggest that you wear a brace. In many cases, surgeons will use plates, screws, and rods to help hold the spine still. This is called internal fixation, and may increase the rate of successful healing. With the added stability from internal fixation, most patients are able to move earlier after surgery. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Our Patient was injured 3 years ago in a car accident. Since his injury, his legs began to go numb which made it difficult to walk. He came to Synapse Orthopedic Group and saw Edwin Haronian MD. After evaluating him carefully, they decided on back surgery. Post-op, he began to quickly improve. See his recovery here. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles Radiculopathy refers to a set of conditions in which one or more nerves are affected and do not work properly (a neuropathy). The location of the injury is at the level of the nerve root. This can result in pain (radicular pain), weakness, numbness, or difficulty controlling specific muscles. In a radiculopathy, the problem occurs at or near the root of the nerve, shortly after its exit from the spinal cord. However, the pain or other symptoms often radiate to the part of the body served by that nerve. For example, a nerve root impingement in the neck can produce pain and weakness in the forearm. Likewise, an impingement in the lower back or lumbar-sacral spine can be manifested with symptoms in the foot. The radicular pain that results from a radiculopathy should not be confused with referred pain, which is different both in mechanism and clinical features. Polyradiculopathy refers to the condition where more than one spinal nerve root is affected. Radiculopathy is a mechanical compression of a nerve root usually at the exit foramen or lateral recess. It may be secondary to degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, facet joint degeneration/hypertrophy, ligamentous hypertrophy, spondylolisthesis, or a combination of these factors. More rare causes of radiculopathy may include radiation, diabetes mellitus, neoplastic disease, or any meningeal-based disease process.[citation needed]. Second-stage Lyme meningitis resembles aseptic meningitis and is often associated with radiculopathies. Most often the radiculopathy found in the patients are located in the cervical spine, more along C6-C8. Certain injuries can also lead to radiculopathy. These injuries include lifting heavy objects improperly or suffering from a minor trauma such as a car accident. Less common causes of radiculopathy include injury caused by tumor (which can compress nerve roots locally) and diabetes (which can effectively cause ischemia or lack of blood flow to nerves). Decompression is a surgical procedure that is performed to alleviate pain caused by pinched nerves (neural impingement). During a lumbar decompression back surgery, a small portion of the bone over the nerve root and/or disc material from under the nerve root is removed to give the nerve root more space and provide a better healing environment. There are two common types of spine surgery decompression procedures: Microdiscectomy A microdiscectomy (a micro decompression) is typically performed for pain from a lumbar herniated disc. The surgery is considered reliable for leg pain caused by the herniated disc, most commonly called sciatica by patients, and most commonly referred to by medical practitioners as a radiculopathy. Lumbar Laminectomy A lumbar laminectomy (open decompression) is typically performed for pain from lumbar spinal stenosis. The goal of the surgery is to allow more room for the nerve root, thus reducing pain (and potentially any leg weakness or neurological symptoms) and restoring the patient’s ability to participate in everyday activities. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

A Transforaminal Interbody Lumbar Fusion treats weakness of the spine by permanently uniting bones of the lower spine. Watch Synapse Orthopedic Group's Edwin Haronian walk you through the procedure step by step with views from inside and outside the body. If you are dealing with neck, back, or any other chronic pain, please give us a call at (818) 788-2400. We will put you in touch with a specialist dedicated to providing you the correct diagnosis. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Watch a glimpse of Neck Surgery performed by Synapse Orthopedic Group's Edwin Haronian MD If you are dealing with neck, back, or any other chronic pain, please give us a call at (818) 788-2400. We will put you in touch with a specialist dedicated to providing you the correct diagnosis. For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Meet Raquel. She had been a patient of Edwin Haronian MD at Synapse Orthopedic Group. Here he performed a Minimally Invasive Lumbar Micro-Decompression on outpatient. It is 5 days later and she feels much better and no pain. We're glad we could make a difference! Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Meet Blanca Vasquez. She suffered from a spinal injury affecting her ability to walk. 4 months ago she underwent spine surgery for an External Bone Stimulator by Edwin Haronian MD. She feels more positive and is able to walk comfortably and independently again. Synapse Orthopedic Group will continue to guide her through the road of recovery. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Meet Patrick. A few years ago, he was injured at work, where a 2,000 pound tire fell on him causing several injuries to his body. He is now a patient of Synapse Orthopedic Group under the surgical care of Edwin Haronian MD and psychological services of Heath Jason Hinze Psy,D (Cal Lic no. PSY23840). He says he really feels the support of all the staff here and is recovering well. Lets wish him the best recovery. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Meet Robert. Robert suffered from a work related injury which resulted in constant pain all over his body. The initial Doctors he saw ignored his pain, and just signed him off to go back to work. Now he is a patient of Synapse Orthopedic Group under the care of both Edwin Haronian MD and Jonathan Kohan MD. He finally comfortable and confident in his doctors and able to walk again. Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor

Meet Tony. Tony suffered from a work injury in 2009 and is currently a patient of Edwin Haronian MD. He tells us he is feeling much better and much more mobile ever since starting treatment at Synapse Orthopedic Group. In this video he is scheduled for surgery in two weeks. See his recovery post-surgery here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kizHkmdEv0A Call us to schedule an appointment: (818) 788-2400 Locations in Pomona, Sherman Oaks, and Los Angeles For more information please visit our website at: http://www.synapsedoctor.com You can also follow our social media pages at: http://www.facebook.com/synapsedoctor http://www.instagram.com/synapsedoctor http://www.twitter.com/synapsedoctor