For Immediate Release: March 8, 2010 

Contact: Armi Hall, (970) 419-7140, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it         

Painful Spine Condition Is Topic
Of Orthopaedic Physician’s Free Program March 24

People who suffer from a particular, painful spine condition are invited to learn more about treatments that can relieve their pain and help them enjoy normal activities and work again.

Dr. Robert Benz of the Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies will discuss a low back condition called lumbar spinal stenosis during a free educational program at 3 p.m. Wed., March 24 in Fort Collins.

The community program will take place at the Fort Collins Marriott, 350 E. Horsetooth Road. To register, call 877-437-2593. There is no charge for the program; refreshments will be provided.

Because of age, injury, or other factors, people can develop stenosis, or a narrowing of the spinal canal (the passage for the spinal cord and nerves). This condition can produce pain or weakness in the back, buttocks, or legs. 

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a very common reason for back surgery in people over  age 50. This narrowing can put pressure on the nerve roots and spinal cord, causing pain in the buttocks or a “pins and needles” sensation in the legs when standing or walking. The pain is usually relieved by bending forward or by sitting. In some cases, a person may notice leg pain and weakness without having any back pain.

The pain often limits daily activities, work, and social and recreational pursuits. Lack of activity can lead to obesity, depression and general physical deterioration.

This educational program will help people understand treatment options for lumbar stenosis. The program is sponsored by:

• Medtronic, an international company that creates and produces a number of technologies for spinal surgery and various medical conditions;
• and by the Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies, which has 23 physicians at offices in Fort Collins and Loveland who provide patients with specialized orthopaedic, spine, sports medicine, and podiatry care.

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