Robert F. McLain, MD

Article

Identifying serious causes of back pain: Cancer, infection, fracture

Author:: Robert F. McLain, MD

Publish date: August 1, 2008

Most patients with back pain have a benign condition, but tumors, infections, and fractures must be considered during an initial evaluation because...

Article

In reply: Medical causes of back pain

Author:: Robert F. McLain, MD

Publish date: March 1, 2008

Article

Masquerade: Nonspinal musculoskeletal disorders that mimic spinal conditions

Author:: Robert F. McLain, MD

Publish date: January 1, 2008

Sometimes pain in the neck or back is caused by a problem in the shoulder, hip, or extremities. Common mimics are rotator cuff tear, bursitis in th...

Article

Epidural steroids for back and leg pain: Mechanism of action and efficacy

Author:: Robert F. McLain, MD

Publish date: December 1, 2004

Epidural steroid injections may relieve the patient’s pain while healing occurs. Who should receive this therapy, and what kind of benefit can they...

Article

Spinal tuberculosis deserves a place on the radar screen

Author:: Robert F. McLain, MD

Publish date: July 1, 2004

There is no cause for complacency about tuberculosis. Spinal involvement may be the first manifestation.

Article

Newer management options in patients with spinal metastasis

Author:: Robert F. McLain, MD

Publish date: July 1, 1998

For some patients with spinal metastasis, new surgical options can prolong survival and immediately improve function. With an illustration that exp...