THSnav

Q: I have been diagnosed with a large sacral tarlov cyst on backside as well as at least 10 other tarlov cysts throughout lower lumbar area upon having an MRI recently. Does a physician have the ability to treat these?

A: Tarlov cysts are common malformations that rarely require any surgical treatment. They are simply enlargements of the tissue sleaves that cover the nerve roots. They are filled with spinal fluid. Occasionally they can become symptomatic and requir ...READ MORE

Q: One of my knees has stabbing pain on twisting it. Is this normal?

A: Sharp pains, episodes of locking and inability to fully straighten the knee are definitely not "normal" for a healthy knee. Several conditions that occur in the knee can cause symptoms such as those you describe. The most common is a torn cartilag ...READ MORE

Q: I have back pain; I’m not sure what it is – do I need an operation?

Answer: The simple answer to this is probably, “no.”Back pain is an extremely common malady and is responsible for the majority of days lost from work in the United States. The majority of back pain is as a result of strain to the muscles n the back ...READ MORE

Question: Is it true that a bulging disc can be normal?

ANSWER: Bulging discs are common in the aging spine.  Discs which are typically plump, firm cylinders can degenerate and lose elasticity with time. The effects of gravity and wear and tear cause the disc contour to change shape.Most disc bulges ...READ MORE

A: Is the Appendix on the right or the left side?

ANSWER: As the name implies, the appendix is an “extra” pocket of intestine located in the lower right side of the abdomen in most people. Problems arise when the appendix becomes obstructed or blocked, which can lead to distention and inflammation, ...READ MORE