Call 844-425-7768 or complete our online form to request an appointment with our expert care team.
At St. Joseph Hospital, back support means more than performing procedures.
It means surrounding you with a supportive team of physician specialists, registered nurses, pain-management experts, and physical and occupational therapists who understand the debilitating impact that back pain and injuries can have on your life. It means offering options for controlling pain and restoring function without surgery whenever possible. And when surgery is needed, it means assuring you that you’re in experienced hands.
Our spine program is dedicated to applying the latest evidence, technology and advancements in back and neck care to return you to the highest possible level of pain-free functioning – because back support means more here.
From conservative therapies to complex surgical procedures, we provide expertise in treating a wide range of back and neck conditions, including:
The St. Joseph Hospital Complex Spine Center routinely serves as a regional referral center for the most difficult procedures to restore spinal alignment and relieve pain. When possible, we use minimally invasive techniques, which involve smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced need for pain medication and a faster return to normal activities. In addition, through our participation in FDA studies, we’re often able to give patients access to new technologies not available elsewhere in the region.
Our orthopedic and neurosurgeons perform the following surgical procedures, among many others:
All back and neck surgeries at the St. Joseph Hospital Complex Spine Center are performed in state-of-the-art “smart operating rooms,” so named for their sophisticated monitoring equipment, imaging and navigation technology and other advancements.
We take a team approach to correcting back and neck problems, providing expert care through every step of the treatment process. Our team includes many nationally recognized physicians, specially trained nurses dedicated exclusively to spine patients, and specialists in conservative therapies and supportive services, including these:
Undergoing surgery of any kind can be stressful. That's why we encourage you to become an active participant in your health care - before and after surgery.
We believe the best way to prepare for your planned surgery is to get you involved in your care, so that you know what to expect during and after your stay at the hospital.
This handbook will answer many of your questions and provide you with resources so you can prepare your home, loved ones and yourself for this experience.
Back and neck pain affects millions. In just a few minutes, our spine pain quiz helps you better understand your symptoms and how severe they may be. You’ll receive personalized guidance so you can take the next step with confidence.
Get access to our vast network of dedicated and compassionate providers who offer personalized care by focusing on treatment, prevention and health education.
Learn how back surgery can change lives and the difference expert care can make.
Neck and back pain can keep you from doing what you love. Learn how to manage your pain, and what treatment options are available.
Seek immediate medical attention if your back pain is accompanied by any of the following:
These may be signs of a more serious condition, such as a spinal fracture.
In most cases, you’ll want to talk to your primary care doctor first to evaluate your pain and review your medical history. A spine specialist can offer a more targeted diagnosis and advanced treatment options. Your PCP may suggest non-surgical treatments before referring you to a spine specialist, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care and injections.
You should consider seeing a spine specialist if your pain:
Patients should check with their insurance to confirm coverage before scheduling. Some insurance plans may require a referral.
Typically, you’ll need a referral and imaging completed within the last 6 months. Many insurance providers require a referral from a primary care doctor before covering specialist visits. However, some plans allow you to see a specialist without a referral.
We recommend contacting your insurance provider before scheduling to confirm your coverage and referral requirements.
Please bring the following to your first visit:
Being as specific as possible about your pain – including its location, severity and how it affects daily activities – will help your specialist make a more accurate assessment.
Seeking a second opinion before spine surgery is not only acceptable – it’s encouraged. Second opinions help confirm the diagnosis, ensure surgery is truly necessary and give you added confidence in your treatment plan. Respected spine care providers will support your decision to seek additional professional opinions, and many insurance plans cover second opinion consultations.
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual.
Minimally invasive procedures may allow you to return to light activities within a few weeks, while more complex surgeries such as spinal fusion may require 3–6 months for full recovery.
Your care team will provide a personalized recovery plan with clear milestones.
Most major insurance plans cover medically necessary spine treatments and surgery. Coverage for conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care and injections, varies by plan.
It’s important to verify your benefits, obtain any required pre-authorizations and understand your out-of-pocket costs before starting treatment.