Dr. Poolos through his many years of experience, can diagnose and treat conditions of the spine, specifically Herniated Discs and Spinal Stenosis. Herniated Discs are a piece of the cartilage and/or the softer material inside the cartilage that breaks off and causes pressure on the nerve or nerves that can cause back pain, neck pain , arm pain, leg pain, or many other types of pain and or numbness and weakness. Spinal Stenosis is a condition that refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, usually found in individuals who are over the age of 60, which causes pressure on the nerves which in turn can cause severe pain in the buttocks, radiating pain down the legs, limping, and a decrease in physical activity. This condition is best treated by surgery which can permanently relieve the pressure on the nerves with little or no after effects.

 There are many steps after that first call is made to set up an appointment until the problem is resolved.

STEP ONE:

Dr. Poolos, not a nurse, resident or assistant,  conducts a personal interview of the patient making sure to get a thorough history of the problem.

STEP TWO:

Dr. Poolos conducts a thorough physical exam of the patient.

STEP THREE:

Dr. Poolos reviews all studies including MRI's with the patient so the patient can physically see and understand the condition that is affecting his or her life. We believe that the more a patient sees and understands the amount fear and apprehension they may have with be less.  Our practice welcomes family members to be with the patient as we believe the saying "two heads are better than one" is very true.

STEP FOUR:

A recommendation of surgery or some other treatment is recommended. Dr. Poolos is the one of the most conservative surgeons and only recommends surgery if it is the last resort.

If surgery is recommended Dr. Poolos performs all surgery from start to finish with only the most highly skilled surgical assistants. He performs all surgery at Fairview Hospital, a Cleveland Clinic Hospital, one of the highest rated hospitals in our city.

DR. POOLOS HAS A NEW ADDITION TO HIS QUALIFICATIONS. HE HAS RECENTLY BEEN CERTIFIED IN THE USE OF THE "X-STOP" DEVICE AS A TEMPORARY TREATMENT FOR LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS.

HERNIATED LUMBAR DISC

HERNIATED CERVICAL DISC

HERNIATED THORACIC DISC

CERVICAL SPINE STENOSIS

LUMBAR SPINE STENOSIS

SPONDYLOLISTHESIS

SPINE FRACTURE

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

ULNAR NERVE COMPRESSION