Our Blog

Pinched Nerve vs. Herniated Disc: How to Tell the Difference

Neck, back, or arm pain can disrupt daily life. Often, the cause is a pinched nerve or a herniated disc. While these conditions are related, they are not the same. Understanding the difference helps patients seek the right care sooner. At Covenant Spine and Neurology, our specialists diagnose and manage both conditions with precision and care. What Is a Pinched Nerve? A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is placed on a nerve. This pressure can come from bones,…

Why Board Certification Matters in Neurology & Spine Care

When it comes to neurological and spine conditions, choosing the right specialist matters. Because these conditions affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system, experience and credentials should never be overlooked. One of the most important qualifications patients—and referring providers—should verify is board certification. Understanding what board certification means can help you make a more confident, informed decision about your care. What Does Board Certification Mean? Board certification indicates that a physician has completed advanced training beyond medical school and…

Post-Surgery Rehab: 7 Moves to Protect Your New Spine

Recovering after spine surgery is an important step toward long-term relief. While surgery corrects the problem, proper rehabilitation protects your results. In fact, the right movements help rebuild strength, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of future injury. For patients who have undergone lumbar fusion, guided rehabilitation is essential. Therefore, following PT-approved movements can support healing and help you regain confidence in daily activities. Why Post-Surgery Rehab Matters After Lumbar Fusion After lumbar fusion, your spine needs time to stabilize.…

7 Spine Rehab Exercises After Lumbar Fusion

PT-Approved Exercises After Lumbar Fusion Recovering from lumbar fusion surgery takes time, patience, and the right movement plan. After your procedure, your spine needs proper care to heal and regain strength. Following a structured rehab program helps you move safely, build endurance, and return to normal life with greater comfort. At Covenant Spine and Neurology, we support patients through every phase of healing. Whether you recently had surgery or are preparing for one, these PT-approved exercises and spine rehab tips…

Kyphoplasty vs. Vertebroplasty: Which Is Right for You?

Vertebral compression fractures can limit your movement, independence, and comfort. They are common in older adults who have osteoporosis. Fortunately, there are ways to find relief. Minimally invasive treatments like kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty can reduce pain, improve stability, and help you move more freely. These procedures can also support faster recovery and better long-term spine health. However, you may wonder which one is best for your condition. At Covenant Spine and Neurology in Winston-Salem, our team helps patients understand their…

Sciatica Relief Options in Raleigh & Kernersville

Sciatica is more than just back pain. For many patients, it’s a persistent, shooting discomfort that radiates down the leg, affecting everyday tasks like walking, sitting, or even sleeping. At Covenant Spine and Neurology, we offer sciatica relief in Kernersville and access to a trusted sciatica specialist in Raleigh, using treatments that are proven to bring long-term results. Understanding Sciatica: What’s Really Causing the Pain? Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve your body’s largest nerve becomes compressed or irritated. This…

What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator? Exlained in Plain English

How a small device can shut down chronic back pain signals Why Back Pain Doesn’t Always Go Away If you’re one of the millions of people living with chronic back pain, you’ve likely tried everything—physical therapy, injections, medications, maybe even surgery. And yet, the pain lingers. That’s where a spinal cord stimulator for chronic pain comes in. But what is a spinal cord stimulator, and how does it work? Let’s break it down in plain English. What Is a Spinal…

Spine Surgery Raleigh NC: Myths and Benefits Explained

When most people hear the words spine surgery Raleigh, they often picture large incisions, long hospital stays, and months of recovery. However, spine surgery has advanced significantly. Today, many patients are surprised to learn that their condition can often be treated with minimally invasive spine surgery Raleigh NC, which leads to less pain, fewer risks, and a faster return to everyday life. Let’s look at some common myths about spine surgery and why more patients are turning to minimally invasive…

5 Signs You Need a Migraine Specialist in Winston-Salem

When to book with a board-certified migraine doctor in Winston-Salem. Signs you need a migraine specialist. Everyone gets headaches—but if yours come with pulsing pain, light sensitivity, nausea, or keep coming back week after week, you may be experiencing migraines. And while over-the-counter (OTC) medications might help in the moment, they’re often just a temporary fix. So, when should you stop self-medicating and seek real migraine treatment in Winston-Salem from a specialist?   Here are 5 signs it’s time to…

Neck Pain or Nerve Pain? How to Tell-and What to Do

– A quick guide for Kernersville patients on spotting nerve-related pain early – Is that nagging pain in your neck just a muscle strain—or could it be something more? Many people assume neck pain is simply due to poor posture or sleeping the wrong way. However, when that discomfort starts to feel sharp, burning, or even shoots down your arm, you may be dealing with something deeper: nerve pain. So, how do you know if it’s neck pain versus nerve…