A healthy spine is central to many of the most important functions of the body. The spine supports the upper body and allows for a wide range of motion, and it protects the essential nerves that run from the brain to the rest of the body. Disruption to the spine or the spinal cord can lead to serious, permanent, and debilitating outcomes. Caring for the spine, whether after an injury or due to ongoing discomfort and pain, is absolutely essential to support your quality of life and avoid future complications. Working with a professional is important when it comes to identifying issues relating to back pain and identifying the most effective treatment plants to effectively mitigate the problems.
There are a number of noninvasive methods including pain management, physical therapy, or other interventional pain management treatments, such as chiropractic and orthopedic treatments. But when the issue persists or worsens, surgery is a logical and practical next step. 1-800-Injured is an attorney and medical referral service that can connect you with an experienced and certified professional in your area.
Consider Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery
In the past, spinal surgery left a patient with massive incisions and complications due to how invasive the procedure was. However, as medical technology and surgical practices continue to evolve, spinal surgery has become more safe and much less invasive than in years past. These types of surgeries can repair or replace damaged tissues or bones in or near the discs, facet joints, and vertebrae of the spine to help the patient move forward with their life with minimal pain and mobility issues.
When To Choose Surgery
Often, non-invasive treatment methods are the first course of action for people with spine-related back pain. They may go through a number of different treatments in an attempt to alleviate the pain while addressing the root issue. However, if these treatments prove unsuccessful, or if the initial issue is serious enough, the doctor may determine that surgical intervention is the best option.
When considering spinal surgery, regardless of age or demographic, it is essential for the patient to work with an experienced surgeon to go through all of the details of the condition to determine whether or not this is the best path forward. The patient will likely experience x-rays, a CT scan, and an MRI scan, as well as an extensive review of symptoms and medical history, before determining to move forward with the procedure.
Common Conditions Treatable With Spinal Surgery
The following are just a few of the many different conditions that are appropriate candidates for spinal surgery:
- Sciatica
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal infections
- Spinal tumors
- Vertebral compression fractures
- Herniated discs
- Spinal deformities
- Spondylolisthesis
Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list of conditions that are commonly treated with back surgery. It is essential that you connect with a medical professional who has the experience and knowledge necessary to build a clear path forward, whether through intervention treatment or surgical options.
Depending on the specifics of your injury or condition, you may enjoy benefits such as decreased pain, improved spinal alignment, more mobility, a decrease or elimination of pain medication regimens, increased productivity, and overall increased quality of life.