Sheela Vivekanandan, MD, Has a Personal Connection to Her Work as a Neurosurgeon
"My sister is a brain cancer survivor, so I know what families go through when their loved ones have a neurologic condition. That they trust me to get them through this is something I don't take for granted. Having the expertise and advanced technology in this region to treat patients is enormous, but it's more than that. It's about caring for the community that surrounds them."
When dealing with low back pain, there are several non-surgical options to consider before spine surgery, says Sheela Vivekanandan, MD, spine surgeon, UPMC Spine Center.
"Roughly 80% to 90% of patients with back pain get better within three to six months using conservative therapy," she says. "Non-surgical medical options coupled with lifestyle changes can alleviate back pain for a majority of patients without surgery."
For people whose pain remains after six weeks of physical therapy and using over-the-counter medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), it's time to see a spine specialist for next steps.
Cold, flu, and COVID-19 season is here. If you're sick and don't want to leave home, you can still see a provider through a virtual visit. One of our providers will evaluate you and recommend treatment and further care options, all from the comfort of your couch.
