Dr. Andre M. Samuel - Spine Surgeon Houston

03/03/2026

02/26/2026

Your spine isn’t just a stack of bones, it’s a complex system protecting your spinal cord and nerves. When the thoracic region narrows, it can cause thoracic stenosis, affecting mobility, coordination, and daily function.

Don’t ignore mid-back pain! Here is what you need to know ⬇️

Thoracic Stenosis | Myelopathy Specialist Spinal cord compression can happen to anyone. Over time, wear and tear, aging, gravity, the thickening of ligaments, or a traumatic injury, can all lead to this condition. Although not life-threatening, it is a serious condition that can lead to permanent di...

02/25/2026

What’s the secret behind Paralympic sit-ski success? Athletes in the sitting category reveal how skill, strength, and mental focus turn every course into a winning run.

In Para alpine skiing, biathlon and cross-country skiing, athletes in the sitting category race the course using sit-skis. We asked athletes to share the secret to success

02/24/2026

Are you struggling with chronic neck pain or numbness in your arms? ACDF (anterior cervical discectomy and fusion) surgery could be a solution, but only after a thorough evaluation by Dr. Samuel. Learn if you’re a candidate today!

ACDF Surgeon Do you suffer from a herniated or degenerative disc in the cervical spine, or neck area? If so, you may benefit from a procedure called Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion or ACDF. The main goal of ACDF is to alleviate pressure, reduce symptoms, and improve the patient's quality of....

02/20/2026

How is a Failed Spinal Fusion Treated?

When a spinal fusion doesn’t heal as expected, patients may have persistent pain, nerve symptoms, or spinal instability. Dr. Samuel typically starts with conservative treatments:
· Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
· Pain medications and injections to reduce inflammation
· Bracing for spine support
· Bone stimulation and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or managing weight

If these measures aren’t enough, surgery may be needed:
· Revision Fusion: Re-aligning the spine and replacing hardware
· Bone Grafts: Using your own bone (autograft) or donor bone (allograft)
· Instrumentation: Screws, rods, or plates to stabilize the spine
· Decompression: Removing bone or tissue pressing on nerves
· Osteotomy: Cutting and realigning bones to correct deformities

Treatment is personalized based on your age, health, and spinal condition. Dr. Samuel reviews the benefits and risks of each option, and the decision to proceed is always yours.

Failed Spinal Fusion Specialist If you’re dealing with persistent pain after spinal fusion surgery, you may have a failed spinal fusion, also called a nonunion or pseudoarthrosis. Dr. Andre M. Samuel, orthopedic spine specialist is dedicated to treating patients with this condition using conservat...

02/18/2026

Resident physicians deserve to learn in a culture that prioritizes well-being. When residents feel supported, they can advocate for patients and themselves, fostering safer care and stronger teams. Learn how this culture is built.

Residents should be able to speak up for patients—and for themselves. Learn how that culture is nurtured at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health.

02/13/2026

A herniated disc isn’t about one bad lift, it’s about years of quiet wear.

As discs lose water over time, their tough outer layer can tear, allowing the soft inner core to press into the spinal canal and irritate nearby nerves. Pain is often the final chapter, not the beginning.

Spine Specialist Your spine is the foundation of your movement, posture, and overall quality of life. When something isn’t right or when you are in pain, it can affect everything you do. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back or neck pain, nerve symptoms, or a recent injury, protecting and res...

02/11/2026

Did you know?

The Paralympic symbol is called the Agitos, from Latin meaning “I move.” Its three elements in red, blue, and green encircle a central point, representing motion and unity. These colors appear in most national flags, symbolizing the global nature of the Paralympic Movement. https://medilink.us/iyse

02/10/2026

Following anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) surgery, most patients are encouraged to get out of bed and walk within the first day. Hospital stays usually range from 1–3 days. In the weeks that follow, patients should avoid lifting heavy objects and limit bending or twisting.

Guided physical therapy helps restore strength and stability, allowing recovery to progress safely and effectively over time.

ALIF Surgeon Lower back pain, caused by a disc, or degenerative vertebra may be helped by a procedure called anterior lumbar interbody fusion, or ALIF. This procedure is done through an incision In the abdomen and can help patients in Clear Lake, Houston and Sugar Land, Texas who have been unable to

02/08/2026

Years of spine training, and my biggest challenge is still maintaining good posture through the Super Bowl. A reminder for all of us: change positions and move when you can.

Most importantly, who are you picking to take home the Lombardi trophy?

02/05/2026

Who is more susceptible to lumbar disc re-herniation? While many patients recover well after disc surgery, some are at higher risk for re-herniation. Risk factors include:
• Older age and degenerative disc changes
• Weak core strength and low overall fitness
• Jobs involving heavy lifting, bending, or twisting
• Smoking and obesity, which impair tissue healing
• Genetic factors affecting spinal structure

Understanding risk helps guide prevention and recovery.

Reherniated Disc Specialist If you are struggling with symptoms of lumbar disc reherniation, such as recurrent back pain or sciatica, or if you are experiencing new symptoms following spinal surgery, it's crucial to seek expert care promptly. Dr. Andre M. Samuel, orthopedic spine specialist, provide...