Inca’s were known to perform trepanations, however the exact purpose is unknown. Trepanation, or craniotomy, is the act of making a hole in the skull to reach the brain. Skulls from many ancient cultures, including the Inca’s, show evidence that these civilizations successfully trephined themselves. Its apparent the patients survived these procedures, although we can…
There is no question that America has a healthcare crisis. At the recent political debates, we have heard versions of Medicare-for-all plans. “People who have health care under Medicare-for-all will have no premiums, no deductibles, no co-payments, no out-of-pocket expenses. Yes, they will pay more in taxes, but less in health care for what they…
The team at Rocky Mountain Brain and Spine wants to wish you a Happy Independence Day! “This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” – Elmer Davis As you celebrate your freedom with family and friends, be sure to remember our tips previously…
“No swimming until an hour after eating”. “You’ll go blind if you sit too close to the TV”. “Sugar makes kids hyper”. These are examples of myths we’ve all been told by our parents. These can be best classified as, “Because I said so”, tales. There is no scientific consensus backing any of these statements.…
Colorado provides a plethora of outdoor activities and adventure. What is very typical for a Coloradan, likely would be considered “extreme” by those elsewhere in the country. Nearly all local skiers and snowboarders know to wear a helmet. (According to the data… about 80%). We all hear the news each year, early in the ski…
In a practice performing spine surgeries, pain management is a common topic. Attempts to minimize postoperative pain involve minimally invasive techniques, which have been shown to limit pain. Consideration of ERAS techniques, including semi-awake procedures, also helps diminish postoperative pain and avoidance of narcotic medications. Recently, it has been found that some patients have a…
Dr. Smith received his medical degree from Rush Medical College and has been in practice for nearly 10 years. He is passionately concerned about the care of his patients and personally speaks with every patient during consultation and before surgery. He is committed to the wellness of each of his patients and continuously offers the…
About a year ago we published a blog on marijuana, “This Is Your Brain on Drugs” (borrowed from the 1980’s campaign). We discussed our society’s 180 degree shift from once condemning the drug, to not just now accepting it, but in some ways encouraging its use. Cannabis is now being presented as a reasonable alternative…
While I rarely follow the Oscars, I was made aware of the 2019 Best Documentary Feature winner, “Free Solo”. Intrigued by the story, I watched this movie with my family. When observing this young man plan and climb El Capitan in Yosemite, by himself and without any ropes or protective equipment, I found all of…
With the advancement of medicine and more common knowledge of how to remain healthy, more of our population is living longer. At Rocky Mountain Brain & Spine Institute, I am commonly asked by older patients, “Am I too old for surgery?” King Tut became pharaoh around the age of 10, and died when he…