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Coastal Neurosurgery & Spine

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

  • Soft Tissue Mobilization
  • Cross Friction Massage
  • Myofascial Release
  • Manual Trigger Point Release

Coastal Neurosurgery & Spine

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

It is important for everyone to find a healthcare provider who takes a well-rounded approach to the treatment of his or her patients. At Coastal Neurosurgery & Spine, we are proud to provide Physical Therapy as well as our PM&R Physician to the individuals and families of the Panhandle. We have worked hard to provide a wide variety of healthcare services to everyone who comes through our doors centered around back and neck pain. Not only by fitting together the specialties and subspecialties but finding some of the most experienced, skilled, and talented providers in the world and assembling all at Coastal Neurosurgery & Spine. By offering a truly integrated approach treatments, results, and outcomes we achievea level of modernization to medicine and a unique center within the Panhandle. We find it is in the granular details that we are able to approach pain and the plans needed for treatment. Starting with our Integration of Neuro, Spine, PM&R, and therapy all under the same roof collaborating together on each case as needed. This results in cutting down wait times for the patient, not losing translation from another Provider at another organization, and a hands-on team approach.

When diagnosing and treating of low back pain

PM&R treatment is non-surgical. These physicians help us exhaust other options prior to surgery and our goal which is to avoid surgery if possible. According to the American Board of Medical Specialties no more than 5% of those with low back pain need surgery to correct their problem. Should a patient require surgery, our PM&R provider will coordinate care between our Spine and Neurosurgeons. Working with our partners face to face to discuss findings and surgical treatment options plans.


Some of the treatments and diagnostic techniques used by rehabilitation physicians for low back pain include:

  • Physical Therapy: medically supervised exercise program
  • Medication: electrical stimulation/electromyography
  • Injections: ergonomic assessment/modification
  • Fractures or Trauma: injury can cause excess pressure or nerve damage

Low Back Pain?

  • Radiculopathy: A pinched nerve, also called sciatica, usually from a herniated or slipped disk.
  • Myofascial Pain: Generally, an aching pain in muscles that can come from poor posture, sitting at a computer, or other job-related tasks. Sometimes it causes soreness in different parts of the body such as the legs.
  • Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the nerve openings either around the spinal cord or nerve roots that can cause symptoms similar to a pinched nerve.
  • Spondylolisthesis: Spondylolisthesis involves slippage of one vertebra over another, causing instability, nerve impingement, and pain. Spinal fusion surgery can bring the two vertebrae back into alignment and ensure that they remain that way.
  • Tendon, Ligament, and Soft Tissue Pain: Localized pain when an area is stretched, or its muscles are overused. This results in tenderness.
  • Arthritis: A disease affecting the joints and resulting in stiffness, inflammation, and pain.

Sometimes, the pain may come from a combination of factors or something not even related to the spine or back. Correct diagnosis is key, and having the right specialist treating you helps you get back faster to an active pain-free life.


Accurate Diagnosis Leads to Management of Pain

With such a wide variety of reasons back pain occurs, it is important to identify the root cause of your back pain. PM&R have the specialized education that enables them to notonly accurately diagnose the cause, but tailor a treatment plan to alleviate the pain as well.


Rehabilitation physicians understand your body’s “kinetic chain.” For example, you may have a problem with your ankle which leads you to alter the way you walk, which may cause your low back pain. Or you have knee pain that is actually coming from your hip. If you have been to a chiropractor, you may hear them talk a lot about the kinetic chain.


By diagnosing and managing low back pain, rehabilitation physicians help patients return to their daily activities.

Now Take the First Steps Toward Feeling Better

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Take Control Of Your Pain Through Education

Our goal is to improve and maintain your overall health by empowering you with an understanding of your condition and wellness plan. We know there is no such thing as one-size-fits-all cure, so we never use a one-size-fits-all approach to your diagnosis.

The Coastal Experience Why Board Certified?

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Dr Critides it's a amazing dr!! I recommend this place to anyone with all my heart! The staff it's really sweet and helpful!


~Rachel~

Dr. Critides was the answer to my prayers. When I met him, I was broken, but now I am healed and I owe it all to God and the gifting/skill that Dr. Critides and his team possess. Thank you!

~Jeff~

Samuel Critides, MD

Samuel Critides Jr., MD is a board certified neurosurgeon at COASTAL NEUROSURGERY AND SPINE in Destin and Fort Walton Beach Fl. Dr Critides focuses on spine, neck and back pain. He works hand in hand with our spine team to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment of patients. Dr Critides has extensive experience in brain injury, trauma, and spine deformities at all levels. We welcome him to the pan handle with open arms as he prepares to become a fixture in the community. He enjoys spending time with family and on the beach.