Spine Care and COVID19: What You Should Know

We’ve all had to change the way we live due to the COVID-19 pandemic. And we’re all doing our best to keep ourselves and one another safe and healthy. But you still may have questions about what’s okay — especially if you have spinal issues. 

While there is no direct link between COVID-19 and spinal care, there is a connection when it comes to getting treatment for your spine. 

At McNulty Spine, we’re dedicated to keeping your back healthy despite COVID-19, knowing that spinal conditions can affect your overall health. Although all healthcare facilities were required to postpone many types of elective surgeries, Dr. Patrick McNulty and our team haven't skipped a beat in our comprehensive patient care. And as of May 18, 2020, the state of Nevada has repealed all surgical restrictions, so your critical spine procedure can take place as planned.

How we’re keeping you safe

We’ve always taken great pride in our safe and sterile environment here at McNulty Spine, but we are going above and beyond these days to ensure your health and safety. In compliance with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we are:

• Sanitizing our exam and treatment space frequently throughout the day and at night
• Establishing safe traffic patterns for patients and staff members
• Limiting the number of patients in the facility
• Facilitating social distancing in our lobby
• Screening our staff members daily for COVID-19 symptoms
• Frequently using hand sanitizer
• Always wearing face coverings

We believe these extra measures are in your best interest and will allow you to maintain your spinal health without fear.

How you can do your part

When you have an appointment here at McNulty Spine, we ask that you take the same precautions we are. As a patient, that means allowing us to screen you for COVID-19 symptoms and being honest about your possible exposure to the virus. The primary symptoms are:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chills
• Fever
• Muscle pain
• Loss of smell or taste

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, we will reschedule your appointment so you can seek immediate medical attention.

The importance of maintaining your spinal health

Now that you know it’s safe to come see us even during the COVID-19 pandemic, here’s why you should. Your central nervous system — your brain and spine — control every cell in your body. Your spinal cord starts at the base of your brain and travels all the way down to your lower back.

At the brainstem, 31 nerves enter your spinal cord, and along the length of your spine, they connect with your peripheral nervous system, which is what allows you to make small and large motor movements, such as tapping your finger or walking.

If anything hinders these nerves, such as a herniated or degenerated disc, scoliosis, kyphosis, or sciatica, you could experience acute or chronic back pain or neck pain, and even immobility. 

Some spine conditions are progressive, and early treatment is imperative to save function and avoid long-term symptoms. Dr. McNulty is an award-winning, double board-certified spinal surgeon with more than 30 years of experience helping people manage and overcome their spinal pain.

If you have an ongoing spinal issue or have experienced a new injury, don’t delay your treatment. Call us at either our Henderson or Las Vegas location or request an appointment online today.