Lumbar Spinal Stenosis educational seminars scheduled in Hyannis, Falmouth & Plymouth

Free educational events offered to the public

Cape Cod Healthcare and Medtronic, a worldwide leader in medical technology, are pleased to announce a series of three free educational events for people suffering from the symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis. Cape Cod Healthcare’s four board-certified neurosurgeons – Patrick J. Murray, M.D., FRCS; Paul J. Houle, M.D.; Achilles K. Papavasiliou, M.D.; and Gordon K. Nakata, M.D. will present at each of the three sessions.

The sessions will take place at the following dates, times and locations:

• Thursday, June 18, at 7:00 pm, at the Cape Codder Resort, 1225 Iyannough Road, Hyannis. RSVP – 1-877-922-4949.
• Wednesday, June 24, at 7:00 pm, at the Coonamesset Inn, 311 Gifford Street, Falmouth. RSVP – 1-877-235-9734.
• Tuesday, June 30, at 7:00 pm, at Plymouth Memorial Hall, 83 Court Street, Plymouth. RSVP – 1-877-211-2686.

These presentations are free and open to the public. They present an opportunity for patients with spinal stenosis to meet with the physicians and learn more about the management and treatment of their disease. Please call the numbers above to register or for more information.

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is the most common reason for back surgery in people over the age of 65 in the United States. LSS is a sometimes painful condition caused by a gradual narrowing of the spinal canal.  This narrowing of the spinal canal can impinge and put pressure on the nerve roots and spinal cord, causing pain and discomfort.  Patients with lumbar spinal stenosis, often notice pain in the buttocks or a “pins and needles” sensation in the thigh or leg that occurs when standing (extension) or walking. The discomfort is usually relieved by bending forward (flexion) or with sitting. In some cases, a patient will complain of leg pain and weakness without having any back pain.

Symptoms often limit self-supporting daily activities, work, social and recreational pursuits. Lack of activity can lead to obesity, depression and general physical deterioration. These educational events will help patients understand their disease and how to manage their condition.  LSS patients will understand treatment options including: non-operative therapy, traditional surgery and a new minimally invasive technology.

About Cape Cod Healthcare: Cape Cod Healthcare, the leading provider of healthcare services for residents and visitors of Cape Cod. The system has more than 450 physicians and 4,600 employees, two-acute care hospitals, the largest home health services agency on the Cape (VNA), a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, an assisted living facility and numerous health programs. For more information, visit Cape Cod Healthcare’s website.

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About Medtronic and the Medtronic Foundation: Medtronic, Inc. headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology – alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world. The Medtronic Foundation is committed to improving the health of people and communities. Its grant making is focused in three areas: health, education and community.