June 2021

When you feel tingling sensations in your leg, it can be due to many reasons ranging from poor posture to severe underlying complications. The medical practitioners at Southwest Cardiovascular Associates can help you understand the cause of your leg tingling in Mesa. The better part is that if your condition results from poor posture or other mild issues, they can help you resolve your discomfort quickly. If your issue results from severe complications such as cardiovascular and neurological complications, they can help you as well. Some of the possible neurological reasons for your condition are outlined below. 

Restless Leg Syndrome (RSL)

This is a complication that can cause uncomfortable or unpleasant sensations such as tingling on your legs.  Additionally, you can experience an irresistible urge to move your legs, particularly beginning in the afternoon and worsening at night with rest. You can also experience a creepy-crawly feeling, aching, itching, and burning sensations that make falling or remaining asleep difficult as it is relieved by leg movement. If you are experiencing such symptoms, you are enduring RSL.

Abnormal Growth or Tumor

Although uncommon, abnormal growths can put pressure on your spine through its path through the spinal canal. Abnormal growths and tumors on your lower back can irritate your spine and the nerves coming out of your spine to your lower body. This can result in pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling sensations on your legs. Therefore, it is essential to seek urgent care for your leg tingling to rule out such complications as they would require treatment as soon as possible for effective management.

Spinal Stenosis

The bones of your spine form a canal that surrounds and protects your spinal cord. However, the canal can become narrower over time, mainly due to aging. When this occurs in your lower back, the nerves coming from your spine can be under much pressure, causing painful symptoms. You can experience leg tingling, weakness, numbness, and cramping or pain in your legs, particularly when you stand or walk, and it gets better with sitting or bending forward. 

Sciatica

This is a condition where your sciatic nerve is affected by spinal stenosis or a slipped disk. This is the nerve that branches from your lower back traveling through your buttocks and hips to your legs, meaning that you can experience sciatica symptoms, including leg tingling. You can experience pain radiating from your lower back through your hips to your legs. Depending on the particular sciatic nerve irritated, you can experience a burning or a shock-like sensation, weakness, and numbness in the affected leg.

Slipped Disc

In your backbone, some soft disks with jelly-like substances form between your bones to act as a cushion between each vertebrae. However, several factors can lead to one of these discs rapturing where the jelly-like matter bulges out, pressing the nerves coming out of your spinal cord. This can irritate the nerves going to your legs, causing lower leg tingling, among other complications.

Stroke

Sometimes your blood flow to some part of your brain can be blocked. Depending on the particular part of your brain affected by the blockage, you may experience various symptoms. You may experience numbness, leg tingling, weakness, vision complications, speaking troubles, balancing issues, or paralysis. It would help to seek immediate care upon experiencing such symptoms.

Leg tingling can be expected but not something to assume. Therefore, reach out to the providers at Southwest Cardiovascular Associates for an accurate diagnosis of your condition to rule out severe underlying complications and help manage the issue.

If you have sciatica, you may experience a sharp pain down your legs from your lower back. Slight movements such as bending may trigger and worsen the pain. This might be an indication of a severe medical condition such as spinal stenosis. Examination and diagnosis from a Mason sciatica specialist may help focus treatment on addressing the source of the problem.

What is sciatic pain?

Sciatica is a term that refers to nerve pain originating in the lower back that travels down to the leg through the hip and buttocks.

Various symptoms characterize sciatica, including:

•         Pain. Sciatica pain may feel like inflammation or a burning sensation from your lower back to the front or back of your thigh.
•         Movement-induced symptoms. Specific postures may worsen the pain. For example, bending, lying down, sitting, and getting up.
•         Numbness. You may experience numbness and tingling at the back of your leg. Sciatica affects one side of your body and may cause heaviness in the affected leg.

Medical attention is vital, especially when you develop sciatica after an accident. Other symptoms may indicate an underlying medical condition, a spinal tumor, equine cauda syndrome, or an infection. Examples of the symptoms include:

•         Sexual dysfunction
•         Difficulty controlling your bowel or bladder
•         Constant neurological symptoms like feeling weak in the leg
•         Experiencing symptoms in both legs

Causes of sciatic pain

Lumbar herniated disc. This is the most common cause of sciatic pain whereby a herniated disc compresses a spinal nerve root and may occur in two ways:

•         Direct compression. This may occur when a lumbar disc develops a bulge or through leakage of the disc’s inner contents.
•         Chemical inflammation. Acidic fluid from the disc may leak and result in inflammation or irritation in the surrounding area.

Spondylolisthesis. Physical stress may cause a vertebra to slip over another. The displaced or collapsed vertebra may compress the nerve and result in sciatica.

Lumbar spinal stenosis. This condition mainly occurs in people over the age of 60. Spinal stenosis is the constricting of the spinal canal. Narrowing of the passage may compress the nerve roots causing sciatic pain.

Degeneration. Degeneration of intervertebral discs may cause the inflammatory protein to leak and irritate the nerve roots. Abnormal tissues in the lumbar spine may compress nerve roots of the sciatic nerve.

Treatment for sciatic pain

It is essential to treat sciatic pain as early as possible to help manage the progression of symptoms. Your doctor may recommend either a surgical or non-surgical treatment method based on diagnostic results. Examples of non-surgical treatment options include:

Medications such as:

•         Opioid analgesics. Your doctor may suggest that you use these drugs for a short duration to avoid addiction.
•         Oral steroids
•         Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen
•         Anticonvulsant such as gabapentin
•         Tricyclic antidepressants

Epidural steroid injections

Steroid injections help reduce inflammation around the sciatic nerve and reduce the production of inflammatory cells in your body.

The selective nerve root block

Your doctor will administer this near the spinal nerve to reduce inflammation and pain transmitted by the nerve.

If you do not experience relief from pain after six to eight weeks, reserve a session with your specialist at Elite Physical Medicine to discuss the available treatment options.

Do you ever regret getting a particular tattoo? Well, you are not the only one. Lots of people consider tattoo removal services. Over time, it is understandable to regret your decision to get a tattoo and want it removed as soon as possible. While you may have thought your selection was fantastic, life can take over, and all of a sudden, you are not sure about it. You start laughing about it and find your tattoo an embarrassing mistake that you cannot spend an extra day with. You start wishing it could just vanish. If you are one of those who regret the ink on their body, you can now get rid of it. Thankfully, with Conroe tattoo removal, you can remove unwanted tattoos and feel better in your skin. The following are some reasons why you would want your tattoo(s) removed by a professional;

1. Reduced chance of scarring

There are several methods of tattoo removal, including dermabrasion, salabrasion, and excision. All these are painful and expensive procedures that require a fair amount of healing time, and the chances of scarring are pretty high. Luckily, professional tattoo removal lasers are used to target the tattooed skin only, breaking up pigments while leaving the skin around it untouched.

2. Because of a wrong decision when young

Young adults are the most common group of people that get tattoos. Most of those tattoos were obtained while in school, on vacation, or on other occasions that you did not put too much thought into getting a tattoo and still went ahead to get one. With time, it is only natural for some people to reach a point in their life when they do not want the tattoo. When you feel you do not want a particular tattoo, that is a solid reason to remove it.

3. To get rid of a poor-quality tattoo.

Let us face it. Not every tattoo artist is good at their job. Likewise, they may have an excellent reputation but not the proper skill or technique for a specific design. They could also lack the style or creativity to make the tattoo unique. If you are thinking of ink, you must do due diligence. Take your time to research a tattoo shop and artist to get the best tattoo possible. However, if you end up with a poor-quality tattoo, you can have it removed by a professional.

4. When preparing for an interview

While it may seem a little unfair, there is a chance that your interviewer might throw you some shade because of visible ink. Understandably, dress codes have loosened up lately, and the tattoo you have might not represent you with your best foot forward. There are some jobs you may want to apply for, and they rule tattoos out entirely. If that is the case, you should seek professional tattoo removal.

Everyone has their reasons for seeking professional tattoo removal. You do not have to be stuck with ink that you no longer want. However, make sure you get your tattoo removed by someone you can trust. You want it done by an expert to avoid scarring or having it end up looking bad. 

Recent research shows that about 1.5 million Americans are living with lupus. Unfortunately, in the absence of conclusive tests, you may be a victim of misdiagnosis. Osteoporosis and Rheumatology Center of Tampa Bay offers specialized treatment for lupus and related conditions. If you ever need treatment for lupus in Tampa, FL, Dr. Miller comes in handy as your best option. Osteoporosis and Rheumatology Center of Tampa Bay assures you of comprehensive tests to clear the possibility of a misdiagnosis.

What is Lupus?

Lupus refers to a chronic autoimmune condition that is quite difficult to diagnose through traditional diagnostic options. Since similar symptoms may manifest in other diseases, your doctor needs to conduct conclusive tests and diagnoses to determine if you are battling lupus.

Most commonly, lupus creates a major problem with your immune system, motivating the body to attack healthy tissues. Lupus may amplify your pain or create inflammation in your joints, internal organs, and skin.

Causes of Lupus

Researchers are yet to determine the precise cause of lupus. For the best experience, your doctor considers specific causes and risk factors to determine the best treatment. The major causes or contributing factors may include:

•       Some medication
•       Smoking
•       Hormonal issues
•       History of viral infections
•       Genetic predisposition
•       Imbalances in gut microbiota
•       Sex (women make up about 90% of lupus cases)

In most cases, it’s quite unclear how and why one may develop lupus.

Signs and Symptoms of Lupus

The symptoms of lupus may differ from one patient to the next. You should be on the lookout for symptoms like:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Skin rashes
• Hair loss
• Mouth ulcers
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen glands/ lymph nodes
• Chest pain when breathing deeply
• Swelling around your eyes or in your legs

Each symptom affects a different body part or organ. You should seek immediate medical assistance in case you experience constant changes in your general health and wellness.

Treatment for Lupus

Since there is no specific cause of lupus, your doctor needs a multifaceted approach addressing specific symptoms and underlying causes. Your doctor drafts a treatment plan on the severity of your symptoms, affected parts, and general response to traditional and modern treatment.

Most patients can manage lupus using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Dr. Miller offers relevant advice on the correct dosage schedule and how to prevent kidney damage and digestive problems.

Your doctor may recommend anti-malarial medication to handle lupus symptoms. Biologics, immunosuppressants, and corticosteroids may also come in handy in treating lupus.

For immediate and long-term relief, your doctor considers how to avoid specific triggers that may make your symptoms worse. To avoid making lupus worse, your doctor may also recommend sun exposure, a sedentary lifestyle, and estrogen therapy to ease specific symptoms.

Other Services Offered at Osteoporosis and Rheumatology Center of Tampa Bay

Dr. Miller also specializes in:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Bursitis
• Body contouring
• Collagen boost
• Autoimmune diseases
• Back pain
• Fluoroscopy injections

Conclusion

To learn more about lupus and lupus treatment, contact the nearest health institution for immediate and long-term relief. If you are in Florida, consider calling the Osteoporosis and Rheumatology Center of Tampa Bay to book an appointment with Dr. Miller today.

Losing a permanent tooth is distressing and can have a significant effect on your beautiful smile. However, finding custom-made dental implants in Campbell can give you a reason to smile. Dental implants fit comfortably in your tooth socket and blend in with your natural teeth, restoring your smile.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a sturdy foundation for your teeth. Dental implants have a design to fit comfortably and blend in with your natural teeth, enhancing your dental aesthetics in the process. Natural teeth consist of a root and a crown, the dental implant is a substitute for your root, and your dental team fabricates a customized crown and places it on your implant. Dental implants come from biocompatible titanium alloys. This property makes them unable to destroy your bones. If your bone weakens due to an injury or decay, your dental team will perform a bone graft to strengthen it and prepare you for dental implant surgery. A bone graft fortifies your bone and provides a sturdy base for your implant.

What happens during dental implant surgery?

The skilled oral surgeons at Ueno Center Dental Specialists first take a CT scan of your jawbone to ensure that it is strong enough to receive a dental implant. They may also take digital impressions of your teeth to help design customized crowns. The next step involves removing your damaged tooth to create space for the implant. If your bone is strong and healthy, the team performs dental implant surgery after the extraction of the decayed tooth. Soon after, you will wear a temporary crown. Your dentist will then allow your bone to harden before attaching the abutment. The procedure ends with the placement of a permanent crown on the implant, giving you the power to smile more.

Bone grafts come in handy when your bones weaken and cannot hold on to implants. When analysis shows you have a problem with your jaw bone, the only option is a bone graft. The transplant takes about three months for you to fully utilize the jaw bone again after all the bones have fused.

The dental implant procedure will expose you to some discomforts, which dissipate on their own in the weeks to come. Pain relievers help alleviate pain and scarring caused during the procedure.

How are dental implants beneficial?

If you have missing or damaged teeth, dental implants are the best solution. Dental implants are preferred to removable dentures and bridges because they:

•                     Blend in naturally with your teeth
•                     Are permanent
•                     Do not require support from your teeth
•                     Allow clear speech
•                     Do not affect the taste of your teeth

Before receiving a dental implant, the team discusses your lifestyle and general health condition before determining if dental implants are appropriate for you.

Missing or damaged teeth can significantly affect the quality of your smile, consequently affecting your self-confidence. If you are looking to begin your journey to a better smile, call Ueno Center and Dental Specialists or book your appointment online.

While most cases of scoliosis are mild, a few cases may cause severe complications if not treated early. Scoliosis can cause some discomfort and affect your ability to perform your tasks normally. Fortunately, there are effective treatment options for scoliosis in Las Vegas that can provide promising results. With these treatments, you can embark on your everyday activities without any limits.

Scoliosis 101

Scoliosis refers to an abnormal curvature of your spine that forms an “S” or “C” shape.  If not treated, the condition can deteriorate and cause spine deformities that may affect your mobility. The common signs of scoliosis are:

•                   Rotating spine
•                   Back pain
•                   Uneven hips
•                   Uneven breasts
•                   Breathing difficulties
•                   Uneven shoulders
•                   One shoulder protruding more than the other

Scoliosis is easier to treat if detected early, a move that can help prevent severe deformities in your spine.

What triggers the development of scoliosis?

There are two forms of scoliosis including structural and nonstructural. Spinal injury, congenital abnormality, and degeneration are the primary causes of structural scoliosis. The three issues cause permanent deformities. Nonstructural scoliosis is the temporary curvature of your spine caused by postural spinal factors such as muscle imbalances. Nonstructural scoliosis may also occur due to a striking leg length discrepancy.

Other forms of scoliosis include idiopathic, neuromuscular, and degenerative. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of scoliosis, and its cause is still unknown. The abnormal curves may cause mild symptoms, which deteriorate as you age due to age-related degeneration. As you age, your spine naturally degenerates, and during this period, adult scoliosis may develop. Adult scoliosis usually affects your mobility, upsetting your ability to carry out your tasks. Neuromuscular scoliosis develops due to impaired muscles in your spine or deformities in your neurologic system. Neuromuscular scoliosis may occur due to the following conditions:

•                     Muscular dystrophy
•                     Cerebral palsy
•                     Spina bifida

Scoliosis in infants is a non-preventable issue, as it arises from poor posture or other habits similar to nonstructural scoliosis. If you notice some of the signs of scoliosis, Dr. McNulty and his team recommend that you visit McNulty Spine for a comprehensive physical examination.

What are the treatment options for scoliosis?

Dr. McNulty examines your spine to determine the severity of the condition before designing a customized treatment plan for you. He may recommend a brace to prevent further deterioration for children with a curvature degree of 24-40 degrees. With mild scoliosis, you may only need to go for routine checkups to monitor your deformity. For severe cases of scoliosis, Dr. McNulty may recommend spinal fusion surgery to correct and stop the progression of the condition. After the surgery, your doctor will monitor you while at the center to ensure the treatment provides the desired results. Teens, adults, and children can benefit from spinal fusion surgery.

Do not lead a life with deformities, especially with the treatment options available. If scoliosis affects your ability to carry out your day-to-day activities, call Dr. McNulty or schedule an appointment online to begin your journey for deformity correction.

Varicose veins are twisted, swollen, and enlarged veins that form on the legs and feet. Sometimes it can be very uncomfortable, and you will need to visit a specialist. Riverside varicose veins have skilled experts who use minimally invasive treatment options to ensure that you can fully recover. At the visit, you can also learn the causes of the varicose veins and the treatment that will make you return quickly to your daily activities.

Causes of Varicose Veins

You can develop varicose veins when your veins are not functioning correctly; this is because the valves that prevent the blood from flowing backward have failed, and when this occurs, blood starts to collect and do not flow to the heart, and the veins start to enlarge. The veins in the legs are affected because they are far from the heart. Some of the causes of varicose veins include standing for a long time, pregnancy, obesity, age over 50, and a family history of varicose veins.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when the valves stop working, which then interfere with blood flowing, causing blood pooling. CVI is a result of aging and reduced mobility. You are likely to experience symptoms like tiredness and aching in the legs, new varicose veins, swelling in the ankles and lower legs after standing for a long time, and stasis ulcers. When you do not treat the symptoms, the veins can burst due to pressure in the veins. The open wound can lead to ulcers on the skin surface. If you experience any symptoms, you should immediately visit a doctor who will diagnose, treat, and prevent serious complications.

Treatment of Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Before treatment, your doctor will conduct a diagnosis to know the cause of the condition. The doctor will check your medical history and examine your legs when you are standing and sitting. The treatment is to prevent pooling and reduce the chance of getting skin ulcers. Wearing fitting compression stockings can help improve blood flow. Stockings that fit poorly can make the condition worse. You also need to take care of your skin so that it does not crack easily.

A non-surgical method that your doctor can use is endovenous thermal ablation, which is directing high-frequency radio waves to the affected vein, which creates intense heat. The heat closes the target vein, and there is minimal bruising and bleeding in the process. Minimal bruises mean that you can go back to your daily activities faster.

 Your doctor can decide to use the sclerotherapy method to inject a solution directly to the varicose vein, causing them to disappear and collapse. The method will help prevent ulcers from occurring and eliminate the discomfort and pain in the veins.

You can reduce the risk of CVI, especially if you have a family history of CVI, by eating a healthy balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding standing and sitting for a long time. If you smoke, you should quit and maintain a healthy body weight.

Conclusion

Varicose veins can be very uncomfortable, and when you do not treat the condition at an early stage, it can lead to chronic venous insufficiency. Knowing the causes of varicose veins will help you monitor your legs. It would help if you talked to a doctor immediately when you see the symptoms of varicose veins.