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As a result of more than 70 percent of health care decisions being based on diagnostic results, we know the importance of high quality diagnostic tests.
Whether you need standard laboratory testing, genetic testing, or naturopathic testing, we are committed to being your trusted healthcare partner and ensuring you have the information you need when you need it most. Our services range from standard lab testing to genetic testing to developing new technologies.
It is estimated that we perform thousands of laboratory tests every year to diagnose, treat, monitor, and prevent diseases.
General Back Conditions
General Info
Back pain is a very common condition, affecting millions of people around the world. It can start suddenly, often after an injury from sports or heavy lifting, or can come on slowly over time due to poor posture, prolonged sitting, or other activities. Sciatica, arthritis, or herniated discs can also cause back pain.
Treatment for back pain varies according to the underlying cause and may include over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, and surgery. Some symptoms can be alleviated by rest and lifestyle modifications. It is important to visit a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and to discuss the best treatment options
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a medical condition where the spinal column narrows, placing pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves that branch off it. An overgrowth of bone and other tissue within the spinal canal causes the narrowing.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of spinal stenosis include:
- lower back and leg pain,
- Numbness,
- Tingling,
- muscle weakness,
- And an uncomfortable sensation when walking.
Diagnosis
To diagnose spinal stenosis, a physician will typically begin with a physical examination to evaluate strength and range of motion, followed by imaging tests like CT scan, X-ray, Electrodiagnosis (EMG), and MRI.
Treatment
For minor cases, doctors may suggest rest and physical therapy. More severe cases may require medication, nerve block injections, or even surgery to correct the issue. Doctors may suggest lifestyle modifications, such as exercises to strengthen the core and back, good posture, and proper weight distribution while lifting objects.
Herniated Disc
Herniated Disc is a condition in which the discs that make up the spine become compressed or rupture, causing back and neck pain.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a herniated disc include:
- numbness or weakness in one or both legs,
- Sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttock and down one or both legs,
- And burning or tingling sensations in the legs or feet.
- In some cases, it can also cause urinary issues, loss of bowel control, or changes in walking ability.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a herniated disc, a physician will usually perform a physical exam, review your medical history, and may order imaging tests such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI.
Treatment
Treatments may include traction, manipulation, acupuncture, massage, and physical therapy to strengthen muscles and decrease inflammation.
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition that affects the spine when one or more of the intervertebral discs deteriorates or breaks down.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease DDD can include:
- pain, stiffness,
- muscle weakness,
- Or it is radiating pain in the arms or legs.
Diagnosis
To diagnose Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD), an x-ray, MRI, or CT scan is often necessary. Additionally, a physical examination, including assessing posture, range of motion, and strength, can help doctors confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) depends on the severity of the condition. Nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, heat, and ice may help reduce pain and improve functioning. Surgery is another option if other treatments are not effective in managing symptoms.
Compression Fractures
A decrease in vertebral bone density of the spine causes compression fractures. This can be the result of normal age-related deterioration or due to trauma, osteoporosis, and cancer.
Symptoms
- Localized pain and tenderness in the back or around the affected vertebrae.
- It can also cause a decrease in the height of the spine and even a hunched-over posture.
Diagnose
To diagnose a compression fracture, a doctor will likely order an X-ray of the spine to determine whether there is vertebral compression. Additionally, they may order a bone scan or MRI to identify the specific site of the fracture better and evaluate other adjacent vertebrae that may be at risk of similar fractures.
Treatment
Compression fractures can be treated with medication to control pain. Additionally, a back brace may protect and stabilize the spine, and bracing exercises may help improve mobility and reduce pain. Surgery is only rarely necessary; if it is, it may involve spinal fusion to strengthen the spine or decompression to help relieve pressure on the spine.
Adult Degenerative Scoliosis
Adult degenerative scoliosis is a type of spinal curvature condition caused by wear and tear of the spine due to age or other health conditions.
Symptoms
The most common symptom is chronic back pain, but it can also cause other symptoms like headaches, shoulder pain, and hip pain.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, X-rays, or other imaging tests to examine the spine’s structure. In some cases, further tests like an MRI or CT scan may be needed to identify any other underlying causes.
Treatment
Treatment typically includes physical therapy, exercise, pain medication, and occasionally surgery. Most adults can find relief and symptom improvement with the right combination of treatments.
Nonunion
Adult Nonunion, also known as Nonunion of fracture, is a medical condition where a fracture fails to heal after several weeks.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include visible fracture deformity, tenderness, swelling and pain.
Diagnosis
To diagnose Adult Nonunion, the doctor will typically use an x-ray or a CT scan to look for signs of nonunion, including increased fracture line gap or deformity. Other tests, such as a bone scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may also be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Doctors may recommend nonsurgical treatments for Adult Nonunion, including wearing a cast to keep the area stabilized, taking pain relievers, using crutches or a walker to keep the fracture immobilized, and participating in physical therapy to strengthen the affected muscles.
Trauma/Accidents
Trauma/accidents refer to any sudden and unintentional physical harm or injury caused to the body.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms include:
Non physical symptoms
- pain,
- tenderness,
- redness, bruising,
- swelling,
- weakness,
- decreased range of motion
Physical symptoms
- loss of consciousness,
- dizziness, headaches,
- numbness or tingling in the extremities,
- disorientation,
- And nausea.
Diagnosis
To diagnose trauma/accidents, doctors typically order several tests, including a physical exam, imaging tests such as x-rays and CT scans, blood tests, and, in some cases, neurological testing.
Treatment
Doctors use a variety of treatments to help cure trauma/accidents, including medications to manage pain, rest and physical therapy to restore movement and strength, splints to immobilize broken bones, and surgery to repair fractures, damaged organs, and other structural damage.
General Back Conditions
General Info
Back pain is a very common condition, affecting millions of people around the world. It can start suddenly, often after an injury from sports or heavy lifting, or can come on slowly over time due to poor posture, prolonged sitting, or other activities. Sciatica, arthritis, or herniated discs can also cause back pain.
Treatment for back pain varies according to the underlying cause and may include over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, and surgery. Some symptoms can be alleviated by rest and lifestyle modifications. It is important to visit a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and to discuss the best treatment options
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a medical condition where the spinal column narrows, placing pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves that branch off it. An overgrowth of bone and other tissue within the spinal canal causes the narrowing.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of spinal stenosis include:
- lower back and leg pain,
- Numbness,
- Tingling,
- muscle weakness,
- And an uncomfortable sensation when walking.
Diagnosis
To diagnose spinal stenosis, a physician will typically begin with a physical examination to evaluate strength and range of motion, followed by imaging tests like CT scan, X-ray, Electrodiagnosis (EMG), and MRI.
Treatment
For minor cases, doctors may suggest rest and physical therapy. More severe cases may require medication, nerve block injections, or even surgery to correct the issue. Doctors may suggest lifestyle modifications, such as exercises to strengthen the core and back, good posture, and proper weight distribution while lifting objects.
Herniated Disc
Herniated Disc is a condition in which the discs that make up the spine become compressed or rupture, causing back and neck pain.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a herniated disc include:
- numbness or weakness in one or both legs,
- Sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttock and down one or both legs,
- And burning or tingling sensations in the legs or feet.
- In some cases, it can also cause urinary issues, loss of bowel control, or changes in walking ability.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a herniated disc, a physician will usually perform a physical exam, review your medical history, and may order imaging tests such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI.
Treatment
Treatments may include traction, manipulation, acupuncture, massage, and physical therapy to strengthen muscles and decrease inflammation.
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition that affects the spine when one or more of the intervertebral discs deteriorates or breaks down.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease DDD can include:
- pain, stiffness,
- muscle weakness,
- Or it is radiating pain in the arms or legs.
Diagnosis
To diagnose Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD), an x-ray, MRI, or CT scan is often necessary. Additionally, a physical examination, including assessing posture, range of motion, and strength, can help doctors confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) depends on the severity of the condition. Nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, heat, and ice may help reduce pain and improve functioning. Surgery is another option if other treatments are not effective in managing symptoms.
Compression Fractures
A decrease in vertebral bone density of the spine causes compression fractures. This can be the result of normal age-related deterioration or due to trauma, osteoporosis, and cancer.
Symptoms
- Localized pain and tenderness in the back or around the affected vertebrae.
- It can also cause a decrease in the height of the spine and even a hunched-over posture.
Diagnose
To diagnose a compression fracture, a doctor will likely order an X-ray of the spine to determine whether there is vertebral compression. Additionally, they may order a bone scan or MRI to identify the specific site of the fracture better and evaluate other adjacent vertebrae that may be at risk of similar fractures.
Treatment
Compression fractures can be treated with medication to control pain. Additionally, a back brace may protect and stabilize the spine, and bracing exercises may help improve mobility and reduce pain. Surgery is only rarely necessary; if it is, it may involve spinal fusion to strengthen the spine or decompression to help relieve pressure on the spine.
Adult Degenerative Scoliosis
Adult degenerative scoliosis is a type of spinal curvature condition caused by wear and tear of the spine due to age or other health conditions.
Symptoms
The most common symptom is chronic back pain, but it can also cause other symptoms like headaches, shoulder pain, and hip pain.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, X-rays, or other imaging tests to examine the spine’s structure. In some cases, further tests like an MRI or CT scan may be needed to identify any other underlying causes.
Treatment
Treatment typically includes physical therapy, exercise, pain medication, and occasionally surgery. Most adults can find relief and symptom improvement with the right combination of treatments.
Nonunion
Adult Nonunion, also known as Nonunion of fracture, is a medical condition where a fracture fails to heal after several weeks.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include visible fracture deformity, tenderness, swelling and pain.
Diagnosis
To diagnose Adult Nonunion, the doctor will typically use an x-ray or a CT scan to look for signs of nonunion, including increased fracture line gap or deformity. Other tests, such as a bone scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may also be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Doctors may recommend nonsurgical treatments for Adult Nonunion, including wearing a cast to keep the area stabilized, taking pain relievers, using crutches or a walker to keep the fracture immobilized, and participating in physical therapy to strengthen the affected muscles.
Trauma/Accidents
Trauma/accidents refer to any sudden and unintentional physical harm or injury caused to the body.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms include:
Non physical symptoms
- pain,
- tenderness,
- redness, bruising,
- swelling,
- weakness,
- decreased range of motion
Physical symptoms
- loss of consciousness,
- dizziness, headaches,
- numbness or tingling in the extremities,
- disorientation,
- And nausea.
Diagnosis
To diagnose trauma/accidents, doctors typically order several tests, including a physical exam, imaging tests such as x-rays and CT scans, blood tests, and, in some cases, neurological testing.
Treatment
Doctors use a variety of treatments to help cure trauma/accidents, including medications to manage pain, rest and physical therapy to restore movement and strength, splints to immobilize broken bones, and surgery to repair fractures, damaged organs, and other structural damage.
Neck and Upper Back
General Info
Neck and back pain is one of the most common ailments experienced by people of all ages. It is typically caused by poor posture, muscle strain, or an injury. It can be acute or chronic and can last for days or even weeks. It can range from a mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain. Taking preventive measures such as regular exercise, proper posture, and maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce the risk of neck and back pain. With the right treatment from our surgeons, most people with neck and back pain can find relief and return to their daily activities.
Whiplash (Cervical Strain/Sprain)
Whiplash (cervical strain/ sprain) is an injury caused by the sudden jerk or whip-like movement of the head, neck, or upper body. It can occur after an auto accident, sports accident, physical assault, or any other sudden acceleration-deceleration force on the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms can range from pain and stiffness in the neck to tingling, numbness, and decreased range of motion in the shoulders, arms, or hands.
Diagnosis
To diagnose whiplash, a doctor may take x-rays, MRI, or CT scans to check for nerve or muscle damage.
Treatment
The best way to treat whiplash is with medications, rest, and physical therapy. Medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain, while physical therapy will help strengthen and increase flexibility in the affected areas.
Neck Pain/Myofascial Pain
Neck pain, or myofascial pain, is a condition characterized by persistent discomfort in the muscles and soft tissues of the neck, often caused by sustained poor posture or injury.
Symptoms
Symptoms of neck pain may include:
- Soreness,
- Stiffness,
- Pinched nerve,
- Burning,
- Poor posture,
- Weak abdominal weight,
- Tenderness,
- difficulty turning the head,
- muscle spasms,
- Whiplash,
- And headache.
Diagnosis
If your doctor suspects you have neck pain, they may order imaging tests such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. Other tests, such as nerve conduction studies, EMG, and joint injections, may also be ordered depending on the severity and nature of the pain.
Treatment
Treatments for neck pain typically involve medications and physical therapy. Other treatments, such as yoga or relaxation exercises, may be recommended. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical Radiculopathy is a medical condition in which the nerve roots of the cervical spine become compressed or damaged, leading to radiating pain, numbness, or tingling down one arm or into the chest and upper back.
Symptoms
- The most common symptom of Cervical Radiculopathy is a sharp, shooting pain down one arm or into the chest or upper back.
- Other symptoms can include numbness, tingling, or a weak sensation in the same areas.
Diagnosis
- The tests used to diagnose Cervical Radiculopathy include an X-ray to look for bone or soft tissue abnormalities.
- A CT scan or MRI looks for disc herniation or spinal stenosis.
- An electromyography test to check nerve and muscle function and a nerve conduction study for nerve impingement.
Treatment
Treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy often starts with nonsurgical methods such as rest, activity modification, medications to reduce pain and inflammation, physical therapy, chiropractic, and other manual therapies.
Cervical Myelopathy
Cervical Myelopathy is a spinal cord condition caused by spinal cord compression within the neck. Cervical Myelopathy can be a serious condition, and it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to reduce the risk of further damage or complications.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include neck and arm pain, difficulty walking, loss of balance, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.
Diagnosis
To diagnose Cervical Myelopathy, your doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may also recommend tests such as X-rays, an MRI scan, and electromyography (EMG).
Treatment
Treatments for Cervical Myelopathy include physical therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery. Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor may suggest one or more of these treatments.
Cervical Deformity
The cervical deformity is a disorder of the spine, usually in the cervical region (the neck), that can cause physical impairments or an awkward, uneven posture. It can involve a single vertebra or multiple vertebrae and can have many causes, such as disease, degeneration, or congenital disability.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cervical deformity include pain, stiffness, and difficulty turning or tilting the head. If untreated, the condition can cause complications such as paralysis and chronic neck pain.
Diagnosis
To diagnose cervical deformity, doctors will typically perform physical examinations and X-rays of the affected area. Other tests may include CT scans, MRI scans, and EMGs (electromyography) to further evaluate the structure and functioning of the spine.
Treatment
Treatment of cervical deformity depends on the cause, but in most cases, the condition can be treated with nonsurgical options such as exercise, physical therapy, bracing, and posture retraining.
Neck and Upper Back
General Info
Neck and back pain is one of the most common ailments experienced by people of all ages. It is typically caused by poor posture, muscle strain, or an injury. It can be acute or chronic and can last for days or even weeks. It can range from a mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain. Taking preventive measures such as regular exercise, proper posture, and maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce the risk of neck and back pain. With the right treatment from our surgeons, most people with neck and back pain can find relief and return to their daily activities.
Whiplash (Cervical Strain/Sprain)
Whiplash (cervical strain/ sprain) is an injury caused by the sudden jerk or whip-like movement of the head, neck, or upper body. It can occur after an auto accident, sports accident, physical assault, or any other sudden acceleration-deceleration force on the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms can range from pain and stiffness in the neck to tingling, numbness, and decreased range of motion in the shoulders, arms, or hands.
Diagnosis
To diagnose whiplash, a doctor may take x-rays, MRI, or CT scans to check for nerve or muscle damage.
Treatment
The best way to treat whiplash is with medications, rest, and physical therapy. Medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain, while physical therapy will help strengthen and increase flexibility in the affected areas.
Neck Pain/Myofascial Pain
Neck pain, or myofascial pain, is a condition characterized by persistent discomfort in the muscles and soft tissues of the neck, often caused by sustained poor posture or injury.
Symptoms
Symptoms of neck pain may include:
- Soreness,
- Stiffness,
- Pinched nerve,
- Burning,
- Poor posture,
- Weak abdominal weight,
- Tenderness,
- difficulty turning the head,
- muscle spasms,
- Whiplash,
- And headache.
Diagnosis
If your doctor suspects you have neck pain, they may order imaging tests such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. Other tests, such as nerve conduction studies, EMG, and joint injections, may also be ordered depending on the severity and nature of the pain.
Treatment
Treatments for neck pain typically involve medications and physical therapy. Other treatments, such as yoga or relaxation exercises, may be recommended. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical Radiculopathy is a medical condition in which the nerve roots of the cervical spine become compressed or damaged, leading to radiating pain, numbness, or tingling down one arm or into the chest and upper back.
Symptoms
- The most common symptom of Cervical Radiculopathy is a sharp, shooting pain down one arm or into the chest or upper back.
- Other symptoms can include numbness, tingling, or a weak sensation in the same areas.
Diagnosis
- The tests used to diagnose Cervical Radiculopathy include an X-ray to look for bone or soft tissue abnormalities.
- A CT scan or MRI looks for disc herniation or spinal stenosis.
- An electromyography test to check nerve and muscle function and a nerve conduction study for nerve impingement.
Treatment
Treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy often starts with nonsurgical methods such as rest, activity modification, medications to reduce pain and inflammation, physical therapy, chiropractic, and other manual therapies.
Cervical Myelopathy
Cervical Myelopathy is a spinal cord condition caused by spinal cord compression within the neck. Cervical Myelopathy can be a serious condition, and it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to reduce the risk of further damage or complications.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include neck and arm pain, difficulty walking, loss of balance, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.
Diagnosis
To diagnose Cervical Myelopathy, your doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may also recommend tests such as X-rays, an MRI scan, and electromyography (EMG).
Treatment
Treatments for Cervical Myelopathy include physical therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery. Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor may suggest one or more of these treatments.
Cervical Deformity
The cervical deformity is a disorder of the spine, usually in the cervical region (the neck), that can cause physical impairments or an awkward, uneven posture. It can involve a single vertebra or multiple vertebrae and can have many causes, such as disease, degeneration, or congenital disability.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cervical deformity include pain, stiffness, and difficulty turning or tilting the head. If untreated, the condition can cause complications such as paralysis and chronic neck pain.
Diagnosis
To diagnose cervical deformity, doctors will typically perform physical examinations and X-rays of the affected area. Other tests may include CT scans, MRI scans, and EMGs (electromyography) to further evaluate the structure and functioning of the spine.
Treatment
Treatment of cervical deformity depends on the cause, but in most cases, the condition can be treated with nonsurgical options such as exercise, physical therapy, bracing, and posture retraining.