Is aching back a cause of concern? You’re not alone. Chronic back pain is known to be the most common type of pain in the U.S. However, this doesn’t mean you should live with the pain forever. A lot of people suffering from back pain that frequently comes and goes think about surgery. The decision shouldn’t be taken without the advice of a qualified doctor.
Surgery Not Needed
Did you know most back surgeries do not require surgery? Some of the treatments such as applying ice packs, heat packs, physical therapy, spinal injections, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) medications may help. Studies also reveal that regular exercise can help ease back pain and even prevent it from coming back.
Reasons to Back Surgery
1. The Last Option
The spine surgeon will suggest back surgery only under certain conditions. Unless he sees a serious spinal cord injury, you will be recommended treatments comprising of medications and therapies. Surgery comes only once you have tried all of the other treatments first.
2. Treating Unstable Spine
Surgery can treat an unstable spine (inability of spinal column to maintain its natural alignment under normal usage conditions). Unstable spine cannot offer ample structure, protection, and support for the body. It is unable to hold together the spinal muscles, ligaments, bones, and disc. Spinal fractures, spondylolisthesis, and serious disc injury can lead to unstable spine. Surgery can help relieve symptoms such as neurologic issues (resulting from pinched nerve), stubborn leg pain, and back pain.
3. Remove Pressure on Nerves
In some conditions, a spinal stenosis or disc herniation compress the nerves of the spinal column resulting in pain and other symptoms such as muscle weakness, tingling, and numbness. Spinal surgery is required here to avoid permanent impairment.
4. Realignment of Crooked Spine
The natural curvature of spine can be affected by certain conditions such as kyphosis, scoliosis, and flat-back syndrome. The surgery is suggested only when curvature of spine exceeds a certain degree.