All three surgeons at Colorado Spine Partners share a common philosophy in that they emphasize nonsurgical treatment options in advance of spine surgery. Non-surgical treatment options are now provided through a larger network of pain management specialists and spine therapists. When surgery is necessary, the spine surgeons perform minimally invasive spine surgery so the patient can be home later the same day to recover in the comfort of their own home. Complex spine surgery, including fusion, instrumentation and artificial disc replacement is also provided in several different hospitals around the Denver area.

Colorado Spine Partners provides the following educational resources for the spine consumer:

• Information about back and neck pain
• Information on Red Flag Symptoms and what do they mean
• Red Flag Symptom Chart
• Information on Proper Lifting
• On-going Research Information

Back Pain Warning Signs

If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, you should consult a spine specialist immediately.

1. Has your low back pain extended down your leg?
   - If the pain persists and is severe, it is a sign that something is compressing a nerve running from your back to your leg.
   

Does your leg pain increase if you lift your knee to your chest or bend over?
- If so, there is a good chance a disc is irritating a nerve.


2. Have you had severe back pain following a recent fall?
   - A fall may cause damage to your spine. Chances of injury increase if you have osteoporosis.
   

3. Have you had significant back pain lasting more than 3 weeks?
   - Often pain will go away with simple treatment. However, if your pain persists you should consult a spine doctor.
   

4. Have you had back pain that becomes worse when you rest, or wakes you up at night?
   - If this is accompanied by a fever, it may be a sign that there is an infection or other problem.
   

5. Do you have persistent bladder or bowel problems?
   - Bladder and bowel problems may be due to many causes, but some spine problems may cause these symptoms.

6. Do you get numbness or weakness in your legs while walking?
   - These problems can be caused by a narrowing of the spinal canal. This is called spinal stenosis.

Keep your back healthy—quit smoking, maintain a normal weight, and exercise at least three times a week. If you have back pain or want to know how to prevent it, consult a spine care specialist.