Surgery is often the last resort to treating back pain. Often painkillers can do the job quite efficiently. Even if you go for surgery, sometimes they are not successful in relieving back pain.
However, there are times when back surgery is the only option to treat severe nerve compression or musculoskeletal injuries. An expert pain management specialist will assist you in deciding when back surgery is the right option after ensuring that you have gone through all the other choices.
So, when should you consider going for surgery?
According to some studies, these conditions might require surgical treatment:
Damage to spinal disks as a person ages is known as degenerative disk disease.
Vertebrae fractures happen due to osteoporosis or by injury to the bones in the spine.
When one or multiple bones in the spine slip out of their place, then this causes spondylolisthesis.
When the spinal column narrows, it is known as spinal stenosis-this condition puts pressure on the nerves and spinal cord.
Ruptured or herniated disks. In this condition, one or multiple disks that cushion the spine’s bones get damaged.
In some rare scenarios, back pain can also occur by a nerve root problem, an infection, or a tumor. Surgery should be opted to prevent further issues and relieve the pain.
Now, let’s check out the benefits of back surgery. People who opt for back surgery when there is no better option available for them often find their life much easier after the whole procedure.
They can go back to work and become more productive there.
They do not need to take painkillers.
Consider watching this video to know more about what is back pain…
Overall, their mood improves, which is healthy for the immune system.
They are now more physically fit and can exercise after some time.
There is less risk of getting into more trouble and back pain.
Although the benefits of back surgery outweigh the disadvantages, there are some complications and risks worth taking a look at:
Some people can have an allergic or adverse reaction to drugs like anesthesia.
Nerve damage is another complication, which leads to loss of bowel or bladder control, sexual dysfunction, pain, weakness, and paralysis.
Getting a herniated disk is another risk that surgeons inform the patients before they begin a back surgery.
Heart attack, stroke, blood clots in the lungs or legs, infections, and bleeding are other complications after or during the surgery.
The chances of something going wrong mainly depend on the health condition of the patient. Your surgeon’s job is to carefully assess your case and then decide what is best for you.
So, were you aware of all the risks and benefits of back surgery? Did you know that often they are not even needed? Let us know about your views in the comments below and share this video so that others can also learn the pros and cons of back surgery.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!