Is Spine Surgery Right For Me?

Back pain is the most common type of chronic pain in the U.S. If you’re living with severe pain, you might be thinking about surgery. In this article, we will discuss the different types of spine surgery and help you determine if it could be the right option for you.

 

 

Trying Other Treatments First

Most back pain doesn't require surgery. Exercise is often recommended as a first line of treatment for back pain. Strengthening the muscles that support the spine can help to prevent or reduce discomfort. Physical therapy can also be helpful in relieving back pain. A physical therapist can design an individualized program of exercises and stretches to address the specific needs of each patient. Most back pain can be controlled with over-the-counter or prescription oral medications. These include anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and opioids. If conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgery may be recommended. When considering spine surgery, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

 

 

Reasons You May Need Spine Surgery

• A degenerative spinal condition like stenosis (narrowing of the protective bony canal around the spinal cord) that’s causing side effects, like weakness
• Loss of bladder or bowel control because of a problem with the nerves in your back
• A spinal infection, or a high fever with back pain -- this can be a sign of a spinal infection
• A slipped disk that won't get better on its own
• Bone spurs in your spine (these are often caused by arthritis) that are putting pressure on your spinal cord
• A broken or dislocated bone in your back
• A tumor on your spinal cord
• Weakness or numbness in extremities
• Difficulty walking or using your hands
• Herniated disc
• Scoliosis
• Compressed nerves (radiculopathy)
• Compression fractures

 

 

Types Of Spine Surgery

There are many different types of spine surgery, and the right type for you will depend on your individual condition. In some cases, spinal surgery may also be combined with other procedures, such as bone grafting or disc replacement. Whatever the type of surgery, the goal is always to improve your quality of life by relieving pain and restoring function.

 

-The most common type of spine surgery is called laminectomy. This procedure involves removing a portion of the bone that is pressing on the nerve. Laminectomy can be used to treat herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and other conditions that cause nerve pain.

-Lumbar fusion: This type of surgery is used to correct instability or degeneration in the lower spine. It involves fusing together two or more vertebrae in order to stabilize the spine.

-Herniated disk surgery: This type of surgery is used to treat a herniated disk, which can cause pain and nerve damage. It involves removing the damaged disk and replacing it with an artificial one.

-Spinal decompression: This type of surgery is used to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It involves removing part of the vertebrae or other tissue in order to take pressure off of the spinal cord or nerves.

-Scoliosis surgery: This type of surgery is used to correct a deformity in the spine called scoliosis. It involves surgically correcting the curve of the spine.

 

Each type of spine surgery has its own risks and benefits, and it is important to discuss all options with a surgeon before deciding on a course of treatment.

 

 

 

If you are considering spine surgery, it is important to consult with a qualified surgeon who can evaluate your individual case and recommend the best treatment option for you. Remember, many people with back issues do not need surgery and surgery should only be considered after other conservative treatments have failed. If you do decide to undergo spine surgery, be sure to ask your surgeon about all of the risks and potential complications.

 

The experienced spine surgeons at Spring + Heights Hospital in Spring, Texas, offer minimally invasive procedures that repair the cause of your symptoms, alleviate your pain, and help you get back to a more active life without needing a long recovery. To learn more about your spine surgery options, call us or visit www.SpringHeights.Care.