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Spine Trauma

in New York & New Jersey

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Brown University logo with sun and clouds.
Top Doctor award emblem for New York 2025.
Johns Hopkins University and Medicine logo
Top Doctor award badge for 2025.
Barnes-Jewish Hospital logo with BJC HealthCare branding.
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Hope After Trauma. Relief After Pain.

Spine Trauma Care at The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care

Spinal injuries can happen suddenly, but the effects can last long after the initial trauma.

Whether caused by a fall, car accident, sports injury, or workplace incident, spine trauma can lead to lasting pain, nerve symptoms, and limited mobility. And for many patients, even after healing, the pain doesn’t stop. At the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, we recognize the complexity of spine trauma and the profound impact it can have on daily life. Led by the distinguished spine specialist, Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, MD, FAAOS, we are devoted to offering a broad spectrum of treatment options and personalized care plans to alleviate your pain and restore your mobility.

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Spine Trauma at a Glance

  • Includes fractures, disc injuries, and ligament damage to the spine
  • Can result from accidents, falls, or sports injuries
  • May cause chronic pain, numbness, or weakness
  • Treatment may include surgery, stabilization, or nerve stimulation
  • Recovery focuses on both function and pain management

Understanding Spine Trauma

What is spine trauma?

Spine trauma refers to injuries that affect the spinal column, which is a critical structure that supports the body and houses the spinal cord.

These injuries can be caused by various events such as falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or violent acts, and can range from mild strains to severe damage to the vertebrae, discs, or spinal cord. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, spine trauma can result in symptoms such as pain, limited mobility, numbness, or, in severe cases, paralysis.

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Common forms of spine trauma include:

  • Vertebral fractures (compression or burst fractures)
  • Herniated or displaced discs caused by impact
  • Spinal ligament tears or sprains
  • Spinal cord injury with nerve involvement
  • Post-surgical instability or failed healing from previous trauma

The spinal column is a complex structure made up of vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and the spinal cord, and it plays a vital role in movement, support, and the transmission of nerve signals. When trauma occurs, it can disrupt these functions and have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial in managing spine trauma to prevent long-term complications and facilitate recovery.

Every Injury Is Different. So Is the Treatment.

Common Causes of Spine Trauma

  • Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car crashes and other motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of spine trauma. The force of impact in these accidents can cause fractures, dislocations, and other injuries to the spinal column.
  • Falls: Falling from a height or even slipping on a level surface can cause spine trauma. This is especially common among older adults, whose bones may be more fragile. Falls can result in compression fractures and other spinal injuries.
  • Sports Injuries: Participation in high-impact sports or activities that involve sudden movements can lead to injuries to the spine. This includes sports like football, rugby, gymnastics, and skiing.
  • Acts of Violence: Incidents such as gunshot wounds, stabbings, or physical assaults can cause trauma to the spine. The penetration or force involved in these acts can damage the vertebrae, spinal cord, or surrounding tissues.
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Rebuild Strength and Function

How is spinal trauma treated?

The right treatment depends on the severity and type of trauma. At The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, we begin with advanced imaging and neurological assessments to understand exactly what structures were affected. Treatment may include:

  • Bracing to support healing in stable fractures
  • Physical therapy to rebuild strength and range of motion
  • Minimally invasive procedures to repair damaged discs or bones
  • Surgical stabilization for severe instability or deformity
  • Spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain that persists after trauma

Every plan is personalized. Some patients heal with non-surgical care, while others benefit from surgical reconstruction or nerve-targeting therapies when pain becomes long-term.

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Understanding Spinal Stimulation

What is spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a treatment for chronic pain that lingers after an injury, even after the structural issues have healed. It’s especially useful when trauma has caused nerve damage or when prior surgeries haven’t resolved the pain.

SCS uses a small implant placed near the spine to deliver gentle electrical pulses to the nerves. These pulses interfere with pain signals before they reach the brain, replacing pain with a mild tingling sensation or, in many cases, blocking them altogether.

The procedure begins with a trial phase, where temporary leads are placed to see if the stimulation provides relief. If successful, a permanent device is implanted under the skin. Spinal cord stimulation is not for everyone, but it may help if you’ve experienced:

  • Chronic back or leg pain after spinal trauma or surgery
  • Nerve pain that hasn’t responded to injections or medications
  • Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS)
  • Post-laminectomy syndrome
  • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
  • Neuropathic pain with no structural cause

SCS does not cure the injury but can dramatically reduce pain and improve quality of life, especially when traditional treatments fall short.

Better Movement. Better Sleep. Less Pain.

What are the benefits of spine trauma treatment?

Comprehensive spine trauma care is about more than fixing bones. It’s about helping you move without pain, regain strength, and feel like yourself again.

Benefits of treatment can include:

  • Pain reduction and increased comfort
  • Improved mobility, posture, and function
  • Reduced need for long-term medication
  • Better nerve function when decompression is performed early
  • Restoration of independence and activity level
  • Less fear or anxiety around movement

When needed, spinal cord stimulation offers an added layer of relief for patients dealing with pain that traditional treatments can’t reach.

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Support, Comfort, and Stability

Is spine trauma treatment right for you?

If you have experienced an injury that affects your spinal column, or if you are experiencing symptoms such as back pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty moving, spine trauma treatment may be necessary for your recovery.

The type of spine trauma treatment depends on the nature and severity of your injury and your overall health. Whether through physical therapy, medication, or surgical intervention, spine trauma treatment aims to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve your quality of life.

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Every Injury Has a Unique Recovery

Spine Trauma Recovery

Recovery timelines vary widely depending on the injury and treatment type. Stable fractures may heal in a few months with bracing and therapy, while surgical cases may require a longer recovery period and structured rehab.

Patients who receive spinal cord stimulation typically return home the same day and resume normal activity within 1–2 weeks. Results build over time as your body adjusts to the device.

Regardless of the treatment path, you’ll have a clear roadmap, consistent follow-up, and guidance every step of the way.

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Real Relief. Real Progress. Real Life Again.

Spine Trauma Results

The right treatment—delivered at the right time—can lead to dramatic improvements in quality of life.

Many patients experience:

  • Long-term pain relief
  • Improved strength and coordination
  • Better sleep and reduced anxiety
  • Greater comfort during movement
  • Fewer doctor visits and medications
  • Renewed ability to work, travel, or enjoy everyday routines

For patients who qualify, spinal cord stimulation can reduce pain by 50% or more and help avoid additional surgery.

We Don’t Just Treat the Injury — We Treat You

Our Approach to Spine Trauma Treatment

We comprehend the immense impact that spinal trauma can have on your life, and our mission is to empower you to regain control.

Through thorough diagnosis and customized treatment planning, we offer continuous support and guidance throughout your recovery journey. Together, we will formulate a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs and objectives. Dr. Okubadejo and our dedicated team will accompany you at every stage, ensuring you achieve the best possible health outcomes.

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A Reputation for Excellence in Patient Care

Dr. Okubadejo has hundreds of 5-star reviews.

With hundreds of 5-star reviews, Dr. Okubadejo’s reputation speaks to the trust, skill, and personalized attention he brings to every patient’s spine care journey.

★★★★★

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Spine Trauma Frequently Asked Questions

Symptoms of spine trauma can vary depending on the type, location, and severity of the injury. Common symptoms include back pain, neck pain, numbness or tingling, weakness, difficulty walking, and loss of bladder or bowel control. It is important to seek medical attention for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Spine trauma can occur due to various causes, including motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, acts of violence, or medical conditions that weaken the bones. These events can exert significant force on the spine, resulting in fractures, dislocations, or other traumatic injuries.

The goal of spine trauma treatment is to alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life. While treatment can significantly reduce symptoms, complete elimination of all symptoms may not always be possible. The extent of symptom relief will depend on the nature of the injury, its severity, and individual factors.

The treatment for spine trauma depends on the type and severity of the injury. Non-surgical treatments may include pain management, bracing, physical therapy, and rehabilitation exercises.

In severe cases or when conservative measures fail, surgical interventions such as spinal fusion, decompression surgery, or vertebroplasty may be necessary. The treatment plan will be personalized based on the specific needs of the individual and the expertise of the healthcare team.

The recovery process for spine trauma varies depending on the nature and extent of the injury. It may involve a combination of medical treatments, rehabilitation exercises, physical therapy, and assistive devices to regain mobility, strength, and function. The duration of recovery can vary greatly and may require long-term monitoring and care.

In many cases, ongoing medical follow-up is recommended after spine trauma treatment. This allows us to monitor progress, address any lingering symptoms or concerns, and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Regular check-ups can help ensure optimal recovery and long-term well-being.