At Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian, we understand the spine is a critical and complex part of the human body and, if injured, can have a significant impact on everyday life. Sometimes injuries from sports or accidents can result in spinal fractures, or trauma may occur simply over time due to a degenerative condition like osteoporosis (a weakening of the bones).
When a spine is injured, Och Spine specialists are here to help patients.
Why Choose Us
Helping Patients Recover from Spine Injuries, Fractures, and Infections
Why Choose UsFacing a serious spine injury may feel overwhelming. At Och Spine, our spine specialists have guided thousands of patients through treatment with their expertise and compassion. Our spine teams believe in looking at each patient's whole health picture. This holistic approach means we work closely with interdisciplinary specialists and our patients to ensure every possibility to regain a vibrant, active lifestyle.
OUR APPROACH TO CARE
Restoring Function After Spinal Trauma
Our Approach to CareOur goal at Och Spine is to help each patient restore function after spine trauma and return to a healthy, active lifestyle.
Spinal cord injury
From the first time our spine doctors see a patient with spinal cord trauma, we begin a journey together. Our multidisciplinary team of spine specialists thoroughly evaluates the injury by engaging the patient through physical movement, if possible, and questions. We listen and observe to understand the extent of spine injury and employ diagnostic technology such as MRI, CT scan, and X-ray to help determine the best treatment path. Our doctors work closely with patients to stabilize the injury and provide treatment and rehabilitation. (Treatment can range from surgery to decompress the spinal cord and stabilize the spinal column to simple, supportive care. We ensure support and transition to rehabilitation to promote recovery).
Spine infections
Patients suffering from a spine infection may have symptoms other than back pain, such as fever,joint discomfort, and even arm/leg weakness or numbness. Doctors first decide if they can treat the infection without surgery. Non-surgical recommendations may include antibiotics or antifungals. When medications are insufficient to clear an infection or if the spinal cord is in danger of damage due to infections, surgery will be performed to wash out the infection and provide space for the spinal cord. Sometimes, a spine surgeon may need to repair damage caused by infection due to previous surgery.
Spine fractures
Spine fractures happen when excess pressure on the bony parts of the spine, called vertebrae, causes a break or collapse. One common type of spinal fracture is called a compression fracture. Compression fractures may occur with aging and osteoporosis and may be treated with conservative measures like pain medications and physical therapy. When spinal fractures occur from trauma, they often require immediate care and sometimes surgery if there is spinal instability. Our providers will quickly assess the nature of any fracture and manage it with the most appropriate and conservative measure possible.
OUR TEAM
Our Infection & Spine Trauma Doctors
Our TeamOur highly trained, board-certified Och Spine doctors treat spinal cord injuries, vertebral fractures, and infections in patients across the New York metropolitan area. Affiliated with two of the country’s leading academic medical institutions, Columbia University and Weill Cornell Medicine, our specialists and subspecialists offer patients unparalleled care for the back and spine.