The consequences of smoking are well documented. Increased risk of cancer, heart disease, arteriosclerosis, and higher risk of infection following surgery are just some of the risks associated with smoking. It can also be bad for your back, as Dr. Ai Mukai explains to SpineUniverse. “Primarily, smoking has a bad impact on blood flow and […]
Spine
Essential Oils for Back Pain
Essential Oils for Back Pain Essential oils are a popular home remedy for many ailments. When it comes to back pain, there are not a lot of medical studies available to prove they actually work. Texas Orthopedics spine specialists Dr. Ai Mukai explains to SpineUniverse, that while essential oils won’t cure back pain, they can […]
What you need to know about back pain medications
What you need to know about back pain medications If you are one of the millions of Americans that suffers from back pain, you’ve likely been prescribed medications to help with the pain. Physiatrist Dr. Ai Mukai covers what you need to know about common back pain medications and the potential drug interactions on SpineUniverse. […]
Dr. Kilbride Explains the Benefits of Running for Your Back
Men and women struggling with back pain often ask if running will hurt or help their pain. While those with back pain caused by structural damage to the spine should consult a specialist before tying up their laces, those with mechanical back pain (structurally normal spine), could see noticeable improvements in their symptoms after taking […]
Dr. Mukai on FOX 7 Austin: Work from Home Posture Tips
With more people working from home during the coronavirus pandemic, back and neck pain is on the rise. Whether you are working at a desk, table or in bed, chances are your posture is not healthy. Texas Orthopedics physiatrist Dr. Ai Mukai spoke to Fox 7 Austin to provide some useful tips to save your […]
Patient Story: Robert’s Journey Through Disc Replacement Surgery
54-year-old Robert Jackson is what many would call a ‘manly man’. He’s 6’2”, weighs 215 pounds and lifts weights regularly. He’s been a DPS State Trooper for 19 years and is a member of the Honor Guard. But in the fall of 2018, while Robert was helping his son move furniture, he moved just slightly […]
Neck & Back Treatment: Cervical Disc Replacement
Degenerative (cervical) disc disease is a painful condition that becomes more common as we age. When discs in the vertebrae start to collapse and lose fluid over time, intense pressure can build up on the spinal cord when the bones rub together then resulting in excruciating neck and back pain. How do you treat degenerative […]