Each year, for every 1,000 adults, there are approximately 5 to 20 cases of disc herniation. Also known as a slipped disc, a herniated disc is a prevalent spinal disorder that develops when the interior core of an intervertebral disc burst out through the damaged disc exterior.
Although a slipped disc can typically be managed with non-invasive methods, there are cases that require surgery. Here, we’ll discuss slipped disc surgery, when it’s needed, and what it entails.
The spinal discs act as cushions in the spine. Located in between each vertebra, the discs absorb impact and reduce the stress imparted on the spinal bones.
Unfortunately, age-related degeneration, repetitive movements, and sudden trauma to the spine can damage the spinal discs. A disc is considered herniated when the tough disc exterior becomes cracked and the soft disc interior extends outward.
When this injury occurs, fluid from within the disc can leak into the spinal canal. Here, it can disrupt the spinal nerve function.
A slipped disc in the spine is often the final stage in the process of disc degeneration. This process typically begins with a bulging disc, which occurs when the disc exterior weakens and the disc bulges out to one side. This may progress to a protruding disc before the disc finally ruptures. Although the name may be misleading, a “slipped disc” has not actually shifted position.
Symptoms of a slipped disc can vary depending on the location of the damaged disc and the severity of the rupture. If a slipped disc doesn’t impart pressure on a nerve, it may be entirely unnoticeable to the patient. However, if a slipped disc does press on adjacent nerves, it may cause pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling.
A slipped disc in the neck, which is known as a slipped cervical disc, may trigger symptoms in the shoulders, arms, or chest. A slipped disc in the lower back, which is known as a slipped lumbar disc, may cause sciatica. This refers to pain that radiates downward from the lower back, causing nerve pain in the buttocks, legs, and feet.
The most prevalent causes of slipped discs are:
As people age, the spinal discs naturally become drier and weaker. This, along with accumulated wear and tear on the spine over the course of many years, can lead to a slipped disc. Disc herniated most commonly occurs in patients between the ages of 35 and 50.
Improperly lifting heavy objects and exercising with improper bodily mechanics are examples of activities that may cause a slipped disc. Athletes in sports that place significant stress on the spine, including football and weightlifting, are often at a heightened risk of disc herniation.
Smoking, excess body weight and a sedentary lifestyle also increase the risk of developing a slipped disc. Sudden trauma to the spine, (which may occur during an automobile accident, for example) may cause a slipped disc, although it’s rare.
Treatments for slipped disc include:
Slipped disc treatment without surgery typically involves physical therapy. Targeted slipped disc exercises and PT can alleviate tension, improve your posture, and strengthen the muscles that support the spine.
Additionally, physical therapy can help reduce the pressure of the damaged disc on your spinal nerves. Your physical therapist may recommend alternative therapies such as massage, acupuncture, and electrostimulation to further enhance your recovery process.
Certain medications can be used to manage pain and inflammation from a slipped disc. Over-the-counter options are available, as well as prescription medications from your doctor. Always consult your doctor before starting a new medication.
In some cases, surgery for slipped discs is required for the patient to make a full recovery.
As we’ve already mentioned, slipped discs rarely require surgery and heal with non-invasive methods. However, a slipped disc may require surgery if:
Before undergoing an invasive procedure, patients must talk to their doctors and learn about the slipped disc surgery risks.
Decompression surgery is most commonly performed for a slipped disc. This surgical method involves alleviating pressure on the spinal nerves by removing spinal tissue. There are different types of spinal decompression surgery, including discectomy, laminectomy, corpectomy, and foraminotomy.
Spinal fusion back surgery is often performed in conjunction with surgery for a slipped disc. The fusion stabilizes the spine but eliminates the natural independent motion of the newly-fused vertebrae.
Today, many patients are choosing the TOPS™ (Total Posterior Spine) System as an alternative to spinal fusion surgery. The TOPS™ solution provides better clinical outcomes and preserves the independent motion of the vertebrae. This is just one of the medical advancements bringing new, improved therapies to patients worldwide.
Spinal fusion surgery for a slipped disc involves an extensive recovery period. The procedure itself generally takes 4 to 6 hours to complete, and patients typically remain in the hospital for 2 to 4 days. The complete slipped disc surgery recovery time with spinal fusion may take anywhere from 6 months to a year.
With the TOPS™ system, the slipped disc surgery recovery period is much less involved than that of spinal fusion. The procedure is considered minimally invasive and typically only lasts for 60 to 120 minutes.
Patients can generally walk and move around just one day after TOPS™ surgery. After 4 to 6 weeks, patients reach their expected level of mobility. This recovery time for slipped disc surgery can be further aided by physical therapy and a nutrient-dense diet.
Surgery for slipped discs involving spinal fusion can improve back pain and symptoms at a rate of anywhere from 60% to 90%, depending on the study. For TLIF surgery with spinal fusion, studies have shown that the procedure improves patients’ pain by 60% to 70%, with an 80% satisfaction rate among patients.
With that said, it’s difficult to determine the success rate of slipped disc surgery with fusion without considering the risks. Patients may lose a significant degree of mobility in this procedure, which can diminish their quality of life.
Additionally, the risk of increased degeneration around the fused segment, which is known as adjacent segment disease, must be taken into account. The prevalence of adjacent segment disease in patients who undergo lumbar spinal fusion ranges from 2% to 14%.
To evaluate the success rate of the TOPS™ System for slipped disc surgery, we can consider the results of a 7-year follow-up study. The study evaluated 10 patients suffering from spinal stenosis with degenerative spondylolisthesis who underwent spinal decompression with TOPS™.
Although spinal surgery for a slipped disc is widely considered to be a last resort, it can help patients achieve pain relief, improved mobility, and a higher quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms of disc herniation, schedule an appointment with your doctor for an evaluation.
Lower back pain has long been a prevalent health concern around the world. In 2017, the prevalence of lower back pain was estimated to be approximately 7.5% of the world’s population. This totals about 577 million people.
There are numerous causes of lower back pain, as well as countless treatments that can help relieve it. Lumbar spinal decompression is one treatment strategy for alleviating lower back pain caused by a pinched nerve.
This article will discuss lumbar spinal decompression, when it’s implemented, and what patients can expect from the procedure.
Imagine if the branches of a tree were as large at the top as they are at the bottom. Now, imagine that a heavy load is placed on the ends of the very highest branches. This would put an enormous amount of stress on the lower portion of the tree trunk.
This is comparable to what we experience as humans with our spinal columns. The human spinal column is like the trunk of a tree, but we’re as large on the top of the trunk as we are at the bottom. This puts a high amount of stress on the lower back, which is also called the lumbar region of the spine.
The strain of lifting objects and twisting the spine over the course of a lifetime is exacerbated by degenerative spinal changes that occur with age. So, it’s not surprising that most of the back problems that bring patients to spinal specialists are centered in the lower, or lumbar, region of the spine.
The stresses discussed above, along with disease and/or injury, can result in a host of spinal disorders. Bulging or herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis are among the most common.
A bulging disc is a spinal disorder that occurs when the exterior of an intervertebral disc weakens, typically from the natural aging process. This can cause the disc to bulge out into one side of the spinal canal.
A herniated disc is essentially one step further than a bulging disc. It occurs when the soft interior of the disc protrudes out through a crack in the weakened disc exterior.
Spinal stenosis can result from a bulging or herniated disc, as well as a range of other factors. It’s a spinal condition characterized by an abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal.
Reduced space in the spinal canal can place stress on the spinal nerves or the spinal cord. But, decompression for lumbar spinal stenosis can effectively alleviate this stress.
Spondylolisthesis is a condition that develops when one of the vertebrae is unstable and slips out of its regular position. The displaced vertebra settles on the vertebra beneath it.
These disorders can place unnatural pressure on the nerves that emanate from the spinal column. This may cause pain, restricted mobility, and other symptoms of a pinched nerve.
Spinal decompression is a method of easing pressure on impinged spinal nerves. It can be performed either non-surgically or surgically. Lumbar spine decompression simply refers to decompression procedures performed on the lower portion of the spine.
The surgical solution for a lumbar pinched nerve involves removing a small amount of tissue from vertebrae in the lumbar region. The surgeon will remove the tissue that’s impinging, or putting pressure, on a nerve. This process is referred to as lumbar spinal decompression surgery.
There are various types of lumbar decompression surgery that may be implemented for different spinal disorders. The most common forms of surgical lumbar decompression include:
Laminectomy and laminotomy are two surgical methods of lumbar decompression that involve the lamina. The lamina acts like the roof of the spinal canal and protects the spinal cord.
Laminoplasty is a procedure that involves making two cuts in the lamina so that it swings outward, like a door. After creating a hinge with the lamina of the affected vertebra, the spinal surgeon will position small bone wedges to keep the “door” from closing. Commonly referred to as open-door laminoplasty, this procedure can effectively alleviate pressure on the spinal nerves without removing the lamina.
In foraminotomy, the surgeon creates more space around the area where nerve roots exit the spinal canal. This area is known as the intervertebral foramen. It acts as a passageway, linking the spinal canal to the periphery.
By opening up the intervertebral foramen in foraminotomy, the spinal surgeon can alleviate pressure on the spinal nerves.
Discectomy is a spinal decompression procedure that involves removing damaged intervertebral disc tissue. The spinal surgeon may remove some or all of the damaged disc, depending on the patient’s needs.
Removing tissue in lumbar decompression surgery can lead to spinal instability. So, historically, spinal fusion back surgery has been performed in conjunction with lumbar decompression surgery to stabilize the spine.
In spinal fusion, the surgeon places bone graft material in between the affected vertebrae. As weeks and months pass after the procedure, the vertebrae will fuse, forming a singular bone. By completely preventing motion in this segment, fusion effectively prevents instability following spinal decompression surgery.
Unfortunately, lumbar decompression and fusion can have certain negative effects on the body, including:
The key downside of spinal fusion is that it prevents all motion in the fused segment. This eliminates the patient’s ability to flex, twist, and bend the spine normally. As a result, patients may no longer be able to partake in their favorite sports and activities after spinal fusion surgery.
The spinal segments that are adjacent to the fused vertebrae must undergo additional stress to compensate for the fusion. This can lead to a complication known as adjacent segment disease (ASD), with which the adjacent vertebrae deteriorate at a more rapid rate. ASD can lead to lower back pain, radiating pain, difficulty walking or standing, and neurological symptoms.
Today, the TOPS™ (Total Posterior Spine) System provides an alternative to spinal fusion that preserves the spine’s natural full range of motion. This advanced spinal implant has been shown to provide better outcomes than fusion in clinical studies performed around the world.
The TOPS™ System provides an important additional treatment option for individuals with moderate to severe pinched nerve symptoms. It can provide a major improvement in lower back pain for patients who don’t respond to non-surgical lumbar spinal decompression therapy.
The recovery period for lumbar decompression surgery can vary depending on the exact procedure and whether or not spinal fusion is performed. However, patients can generally expect to wait four to six weeks before reaching their expected degree of mobility and returning to work.
Spinal fusion prolongs the recovery process for lumbar decompression surgery. It can take up to a year to fully recover from fusion. With this in mind, the TOPS™ System can significantly reduce the lumbar decompression surgery recovery time, allowing patients to return to physical activity much sooner.
Lumbar decompression surgery is an invasive procedure. So, as with any surgical procedure, it comes with certain risks.
With that said, lumbar decompression is widely performed and considered safe. Advancements in medical technology have even made minimally-invasive lumbar decompression surgery possible. This allows for greater safety and a lower risk of complications.
If you have symptoms of a pinched nerve, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about the complete scope of treatment options available to you.
In our previous blog we discussed the tremendous stresses borne by the lumbar, or lower portion of the spine comprising the five lowest vertebrae. In fact, lumbar back pain is a significant health issue, affecting about 70 to 85 percent of Americans at some point in their lives, according the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Among the most common causes of lumbar spinal problems is the degeneration of bones and tissue in the spine that occur as a normal part of aging. But one doesn’t have to be older to have lumbar spinal problems. Back pain is the most frequent cause of activity limitation in people under the age of 45, according to the NIH. Trauma or injury, poor posture and biomechanics, genetics, obesity and poor muscle tone can all result in lumbar spinal problems that cause pain, limit mobility, and have other serious health consequences. These conditions include spinal stenosis, bulging disc, herniated disc, slipped disc, radiculopathy and spondylolisthesis.
A variety of treatment options are available for individuals affected by conditions causing lumbar back pain. Individuals with moderate to severe cases of these conditions who do not respond to conservative treatment options such as medication, physical therapy and lifestyle changes, may opt for a surgical solution. Frequently this involves cutting away portions of a lumbar vertebra that is impinging, or putting pressure on a nerve emanating from the spinal column. Such spinal decompression surgery can have a dramatic impact on relieving pain and restoring mobility. However, removing bony elements also weakens and destabilizes the spine, so historically a procedure known as lumbar fusion, or lumbar spinal fusion has been performed in conjunction with spinal decompression back surgery of the lower spine. In this procedure the vertebra from which tissue was removed is fused to an adjacent vertebra. This stabilizes and strengthens the spine, but lumbar fusion eliminates the natural flexion and independent motion of the fused vertebrae. Today lumbar decompression surgery patients have an alternative to lumbar fusion: the TOPS™ (Total Posterior Spine) System. TOPS preserves the full range of the spine’s natural motion, and has been shown to provide better outcomes than fusion in clinical studies performed around the world. If you are considering surgery for a lumbar spinal problem, ask your physician about all your surgical options.
Spinal fusion is often performed in conjunction with spinal decompression surgery for various spinal conditions. Decompression surgery alleviates pressure on pinched nerves that extend from the spine. This process reduces pain and restricted mobility stemming from nerve compression.
Unfortunately, spinal decompression also involves removing portions of the vertebrae. This makes the spine weaker and less stable at the affected segment. To prevent further injury, spine specialists commonly use spinal fusion to stabilize the spine after decompression.
Spinal fusion involves fusing two or more adjacent vertebrae into a single bone with a bone graft. As a major surgery, spinal fusion requires extensive preparation and recovery to achieve the best possible results.
The process of preparing for spinal fusion surgery is similar to preparing for any other spinal operation. However, there are a few specifics to be aware of.
Firstly, be prepared to undergo a thorough examination before the surgery. This is essential for your physicians to plan every aspect of the operation. Radiograph assessments for spinal stability, electromyography (EMG) for nerve function, and an MRI, CAT, or other imaging tests to identify nerve compression are often performed.
Your doctors will also assess your overall physical condition to ensure that you’re in sufficient health to undergo the rigors of the surgery. You’ll need to discuss all pre-existing medical conditions with your physicians. These conditions may need to be further evaluated before proceeding with spinal fusion surgery.
With this in mind, one of the most important ways to prepare for spinal fusion is to get into the best possible physical condition. This may involve quitting smoking, improving your diet, and increasing your physical fitness (while following all of your doctor’s instructions). Being in good physical condition translates into fewer complications during surgery and a faster recovery afterward.
Most patients are cleared to return home two to four days after spinal fusion. Make sure to plan ahead and have someone drive you home from the hospital. Typically, patients aren’t allowed to drive for a few weeks after lumbar fusion.
There are several ways to equip your home for smooth spinal surgery recovery. Our best tips include:
The results of spinal fusion are permanent. This means that the affected vertebrae are permanently fused and can’t be separated. However, there are some instances in which patients require revision surgery, including:
Fusion failure occurs when the targeted vertebrae fail to combine into a single bone after the procedure. When this occurs, the patient will continue to experience back pain and neurological symptoms. Patients who have used corticosteroids are at a higher risk of fusion failure, as are patients who underwent fusion without fusion hardware.
Hardware is often used during spinal fusion to stabilize the bone graft. Rarely, this hardware may become damaged or malfunction after the procedure. In these cases, the hardware may move around and irritate the neighboring tissue, leading to pain.
Adjacent segment disease can develop when the vertebrae adjacent the fused segment break down at a faster-than-usual rate. Since the fusion eliminates all motion at the fused segment, the adjacent vertebrae must undergo added strain. Adjacent segment disease can lead to back pain and neurological symptoms, creating the need for revision surgery.
The body produces scar tissue during its natural healing process. Generally, scar tissue doesn’t cause any problems. However, after spinal procedures like spinal fusion, scar tissue may irritate or constrict a nerve root, which can cause neurological symptoms.
In a perfect world, spinal fusion surgery would rid all patients of chronic back pain without future complications. But, in reality, spinal fusion creates the risk of various complications later in life.
Future complications that may result from spinal fusion surgery include:
Alongside chronic pain, poor mobility is a major concern among patients facing spinal fusion. Without the ability to bend, flex, or twist at the fused segment, many patients lose the mobility required for their favorite activities. Some patients may always need a reacher device to pick up items off of the floor.
With these possible complications in mind, spinal surgery of any kind, including spinal fusion should only be considered a last resort. Physicians only recommended it if more conservative treatments have proven ineffective.
Considering the prominent downsides of spinal fusion, it’s unsurprising that many patients with spinal conditions seek out alternative treatments. Now, patients undergoing spinal decompression have an alternative procedure to consider.
The TOPS (Total Posterior Solution) System has long been used in Europe and Australia, with better outcomes than spinal fusion. Now, it’s being used across many states in the U.S. and has earned the FDA breakthrough designation.
TOPS is a non-fusion lumbar spine implant that stabilizes the spine without eliminating the independent motion of the individual vertebrae. With TOPS, patients recover with far fewer restrictions and in a much shorter time frame than with spinal fusion.
One of the best ways to prepare for spinal fusion is to discover if an alternative solution like the TOPS System from Premia Spine makes more sense than spinal fusion for you or a loved one. Contact your spinal specialist to learn more about all of the treatment options available today.
In our last blog we began addressing the topic of preparing for spinal fusion back surgery. We touched upon tests that may be performed, and the need to prepare physically through a conditioning regimen so your body is ready for the rigors of surgery. Here are additional points anyone considering spinal fusion should remember:
One potential complication of spinal fusion surgery is excessive bleeding. Several commonly used medications can increase bleeding, including aspirin, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs, as can anticoagulants such as warfarin. You will need to discontinue use of any such medications. Should your physician or surgeon be concerned about the risk of excessive blood loss during your spinal fusion operation, you may bank your own blood, called an autologous blood donation, before the surgery.
Be sure to discuss all the medications you are taking with your physicians, and they will advise you when (and if) you should stop taking them. Some medications could cause adverse affects in combination with the anesthetics or other medications used during the operation, and anti-inflammatory medication such as cortisone and chemotherapy can compromise the body’s ability to heal.
Failure of the bone graft to heal, called pseudarthrosis, is one of spinal fusion’s most problematic post-surgical complications. Smoking is associated with this complication, and nicotine has been shown to compromise the ability of bone cells to grow. It is imperative that smokers stop smoking prior to the surgery, and not smoke before their recovery is complete.
Before resigning yourself to spinal fusion surgery, remember that spinal problems often respond to more conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and healthy lifestyle changes. Alternative surgical procedures may also be available. For example, many candidates for spinal fusion can choose the TOPSTM(Total Posterior Solution) System instead. The TOPS System not only preserves all the natural flexion of individual vertebrae, unlike spinal fusion, but it has also been shown to have better outcomes in clinical trials around the world. Indeed, investigating alternative options is another productive way to prepare for a spinal fusion operation.
We’ve addressed preparations for back surgery in recent blogs and specifically the surgery for spinal stenosis and fusion operations. Yet, the recovery process is just as necessary as the back surgery itself to your long-term health, so prepare well for postoperative routines and realities before the surgery is performed.
Among the first questions patients often ask about the spinal fusion back surgery recovery process is how soon they will get out of bed following the operation. Patients typically get out of bed the day after their surgery – with the help of attendants, who will assist you in sitting up, getting your legs over the side of the bed, standing up, and walking. You’ll be glad that you spent time getting in shape before your operation. The preparation pays off at times like this, as being in good health will help throughout your healing and recovery, as the body responds to the trauma of surgery and works to repair itself.
All surgeries involve certain risks in one way or another, such as infection, bleeding, or nerve damage. E.g., if you suffer from osteochondrosis, problems with other discs may occur. In most cases, such complications are associated with the rigid spinal fusion structure, where the load on the vertebrae is unevenly distributed. Therefore, people may feel unable to do some movements. Joints perform a dual function that leads to degenerative changes.
On the other hand, a spinal stenosis surgery implant is a more effective treatment for certain spine diseases. But the healing process can take several months, especially if the patient is overweight or has poor muscle tone. At the stage of preparation for surgery, you’d change your lifestyle and take the following steps:
Getting out of bed after back surgery will go smoothly, and you’ll be able to get up and walk unaided in a few days and soon even go home to recover. Some elderly or debilitated patients may consider visiting a rehabilitation center for about a week. That will help strengthen a back and learn how to move safely.
The hospital regimen in the first days after the operation provides instructions on how to get around, as flexibility will be limited. Patients often receive pain relievers and wear a brace to maintain the correct spine position. By the way, prescription opioids shouldn’t be consumed with alcohol. You can also replace them with more traditional methods – e.g., cold or heat wraps for 15-20 minutes with a break of 2 hours between procedures. A separate topic is the resumption of a diet consisting of solid food. Also, general anesthesia requires fasting for at least 8 hours before the intervention. On the day of surgery, only a sip of water is allowed to take medicine.
When you’re in better physical condition before surgery, healing time can be shortened, e.g., doing all kinds of exercises recommended by doctors, physical therapy, undergoing a course of massages, etc. This is how you can strengthen your back muscles. Subsequently, they’ll better support the spine, and you won’t wonder how to get in and out of bed after back surgery. In any case, a sedentary lifestyle puts a greater risk of wear and tear on the vertebrae located above and below the immobilized part.
Anything that was inconvenient or seemed impossible before the operation became available. Postoperative care is directly related to the initial preparation phase, namely the layout of your home. Oddly enough, but it’s essential to have a spacious bathroom with a shower and a rug so as not to slip, a firm mattress so that the process of getting in and out of bed after back surgery is as painless and gentle as possible for the operated area. Consider placing a portable small refrigerator and cooler in the room, as well as blankets and other supplies so that you can easily access them. You can also utilize a grabber to lift items off the ground and shelves (find them in pharmacies or specialized stores). For elderly patients who have difficulty walking, sticks or walkers are recommended. A soft lounge chair, unlike a regular chair, can reduce the load on the lumbar region. In general, you need to take care of preventing falls: remove objects through which there is a possibility of tripping, install handrails as required (e.g., in the shower, on the stairs). This way, you can recover in a safe environment. Household chores after discharge are also best left to family members, a home care aide, or a caregiver.
Here are some tips on how to get out of bed after back surgery faster.
For recovery to take place as quickly as possible and for the load on the spine to be optimal, it’s necessary to take short walks every 30 minutes. For example, if you sit for most of the day, you’d learn the most ergonomic position. Use supports with a low back or unique chairs that allow you to maintain correct posture.
Please note that after surgery, you’d avoid long car trips.
Sitting with knees higher than hips has a negative effect on the spine. Therefore, try to get up slowly: move to the edge of the seat and utilize the armrests to push upward. Focus on your feet.
Bending, lifting, twisting, and driving – all these activities are prohibited in the early stages of recovery. For example, flexion at the knees and hips is perfectly acceptable, but not the spine. Remember: don’t lift anything that weighs more than a gallon of milk (about 8 pounds)! It’d also be borne in mind that due to drowsiness, impaired judgment, and poor coordination – side effects of prescription opioid pain relievers, driving is prohibited during the recovery period.
Sleep is critical to the body’s recovery – the immune system is involved in reducing inflammation. Of course, it can be difficult to fall asleep at times, especially since now you have to consider the new rules of rest.
So, utilize the log technique – keep your knees together and keep your back straight. Remember how geisha slept in ancient Japan? They rested their necks on wooden supports while the load was transferred to the upper spine and shoulders. You have to do something similar in everyday life: sleep with your head in the pillow, with a rolled-up blanket under your knees. So your legs will be slightly bent, so there will be no intense pressure on the operated area.
It would be best if you did manipulations to cleanse the wound daily. In addition, it’s worth checking it for infection. If you notice signs of suppuration, redness, swelling, or palpation of the wound that causes too painful sensations, you’d urgently consult your doctor. Occasionally, an infection may cause fever and chills. Don’t take a bath; take a shower instead and use a soft sponge only.
Today, many candidates for spinal fusion surgery can opt for the TOPS (Total Posterior Solution) System instead. The TOPS™ implant has been shown to have better clinical outcomes and fewer post-surgical complications than spinal fusion. And unlike spine fusion procedures, the TOPS™ device preserves the full range of each vertebra’s motion. Patients concerned about how soon they can get out of bed following spine fusion back surgery should make sure they’re familiar with all their surgical options, as the choices they make can also affect their recovery.
Your caregivers will have plenty of valuable tips for helping ensure a smooth, steady recovery from spinal fusion. For example, such simple tips will help you rehabilitate more quickly and with less discomfort:
But it’s essential to take care of your physical condition even before the operation since the timing of your recovery depends on it.
Failed back surgery syndrome (also called FBSS, or failed back syndrome) is a generalized term used to describe ongoing pain after back surgery. After going through a spinal surgical procedure, of course, both you and your surgeon desire your complete painlessness. However, even with the best spinal surgeon and the best indications for spinal surgery success, there is always a small chance that back pain may continue after surgery and recovery (studies report continued back pain after 5% of all spinal surgeries).
There are many reasons why a back surgery might not result in a completely pain-free existence, partially owing to the fact that spine surgery is only able to accomplish stabilizing a painful joint and decompressing a pinched nerve. If your back condition involves more than these two pain-causing situations, your spine surgeon will need to continue your care and explore additional solutions to your back pain condition.
It should be understood that back surgery is not guaranteed to reduce a person’s pain levels and is primarily a procedure to improve the condition of your spine and prevent any further damage in the future.
Back surgery is reported to be 95% successful at changing anatomy that causes pain and correcting the physical results of a back injury. But it’s also important to realize that back surgery isn’t a cure-all for every type of back pain-causing condition. Since the spine is a very complex part of your anatomy, with many vertebrae, nerves, and cushioning between your discs, it can be a complex process to get to the root of what’s truly causing you pain.
Your back surgeon will thoroughly assess your back pain condition and use top technology to diagnose your back pain causes, but it’s important for you to have realistic expectations of what back surgery can and cannot accomplish for you. If you experience Failed Back Surgery Syndrome, your skilled physician will then conduct additional tests and map out a plan of action to remedy as much of your back pain as possible. All valuable things take time, so don’t set yourself up for possible disappointment by expecting a quick fix to any back pain. It may take an extra procedure or extra treatment after your back surgery to get you feeling much better.
If you do have great success after your back surgery, then you’re in that fortunate 95% of back pain patients whose symptoms lessen and whose lifestyle will very soon be active and more comfortable again.
Discectomy/ Microdiscectomy – To remove a herniated lumbar disc that causes back or leg pain. This operation has a high success rate when treating leg pain and the outcome is very predictable, however, the chances of success are significantly lower for back pain.
Spinal Fusion Surgery – Surgery to provide stability to the spine by fusing vertebrae together using a bone graft, in addition to metal pins, rods, and sometimes a plate. This is often the solution for a person suffering from spondylolisthesis. Although improved stability is usually guaranteed, the likelihood of reduced pain levels is much lower.
In some cases, this procedure could result in fusion and/ or implant failure where the body effectively rejects the foreign materials. Spinal fusion surgery could also lead to a transfer lesion, this is when one of the vertebrae next to the problem area is damaged, leading to the degeneration of what was previously a healthy bone.
Lumbar Decompression Surgery – Lumbar decompression surgery also offers no guarantees, with some chance that spinal stenosis or disc herniation could recur. It is also possible that the decompression of the nerve root was not sufficient enough, or that the damaged nerves do not heal correctly following the procedure. The surgery may even cause additional damage to the nerve roots, potentially worsening the pain.
Scar Tissue – Epidural fibrosis is the result of excessive scar tissue near a nerve root following surgery, most common following spinal surgery. The scar tissue effectively attaches itself to the nerve root and causes significant pain. Unfortunately, epidural fibrosis could even occur following a successful operation and is somewhat of unavoidable risk.
These issues may require postoperative rehabilitation to fix the secondary pain caused by an unsuccessful procedure.
Fortunately, FBSS can be managed and anyone suffering from the failed back surgery does not need to expect long-term and constant pain. There are many ways in which a person can manage their failed back surgery syndrome so they can ease pain levels and return to a normal way of life.
Physical Therapy – One of the most effective ways of managing FBSS is by employing the services of a physical therapist who can work closely with you to help strengthen your back muscles, achieve proper posture and help to manage any pain you may be experiencing.
Lifestyle Adjustments – Ensuring you are doing all you can to limit the impact of FBSS is one of the simplest ways to manage the problem. This can be as simple as sleeping in the correct position (on your back or side, as opposed to your stomach), making sure you wear appropriate footwear on certain occasions, and watching your diet to avoid weight gain.
Regularly seeing a masseuse is also a good way to reduce inflammation.
Medication – Prescribing medication for FBSS is somewhat of a controversial topic as it can be easy for a person to become overly dependent on painkillers, or possibly even addicted. This is why it is extremely important to carefully manage your medication, ensuring it is only used whenever the pain reaches significant levels. Other forms of treatment such as physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments should be the primary methods used to reduce pain.
Medication can also result in numerous side effects when taken frequently, including; depression, constipation, damage to the immune system, and deterioration to your overall health.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Devices – These devices have been gaining in popularity in recent years, especially among FBSS sufferers as they have proven successful in reducing severe pain symptoms. They work by using neurostimulation to stop pain signals from reaching and registering with the brain and are an alternative to medication and traditional treatments.
Focus on your mental health – Do not let your symptoms get you down and focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with plenty of exercises. If you feel like your mental health is deteriorating then please pay a visit to your doctor who can refer you to a specialist.
Back pain affects an estimated eight out of 10 people over the course of their lives. So, it’s no surprise that this widespread medical condition sparks many questions among patients.
One of the most prevalent questions that spine specialists receive from back pain patients is whether or not they’ll need surgery. Understandably, most patients want to avoid back surgery and the risks that it involves.
In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about back pain and back surgery. With this information, we aim to give you peace of mind in the range of treatments available for back pain today.
If you’re experiencing ongoing or severe back pain, you may be wondering if you’ll need back surgery to finally eliminate that constant backache. To answer this question and get on the path to relief from debilitating back pain, you’ll likely need to consult a spinal surgeon.
Your spinal surgeon will need to assess your back symptoms, take a full medical history, and review your general health. But, don’t start worrying about the prospect of surgery. Back surgery is generally only needed in a small percentage of back pain cases.
According to the UT Southwestern Medical Center, only 10% of back pain cases require surgery. Additionally, among back pain patients who require surgery, minimally-invasive procedures are widely successful.
So, for most patients, back pain can be resolved with a range of non-surgical options. These trusted treatments can keep you off of the operating table and quickly restore your quality of life.
When conservative treatments don’t help, your physician may recommend back surgery. This is often the case when the doctor is looking to provide relief from severe, disabling back pain that’s limiting your lifestyle, interrupting your sleep, and preventing you from being active.
The most common non-surgical treatment options available for back pain include:
In some cases, patients may benefit from epidural steroid injections, which can alleviate pain and inflammation in the spine. Unfortunately, steroid injections can also trigger tissue damage if they’re used in excess. Most physicians recommend that patients undergo no more than three to four injections per year.
Additionally, lifestyle changes are often very helpful in treating back pain without surgery. Specifically, changing your diet to lose weight can help remove pressure from the spinal nerves. This can help the irritated tissue heal and recover, as well as lessen neurological symptoms.
Your physician may recommend rest for back pain after your initial diagnosis. However, it’s important to stay active with low-impact activities to prevent stiffness and maintain strength. Once back pain and inflammation have decreased, you’ll likely be able to increase your activity level.
Exercise is beneficial for back pain because it prevents stiffness in the ligaments and tendons. It can help you maintain mobility in the back while increasing circulation to the injured tissue.
However, high-impact, strenuous exercise can do more harm than good for back pain patients. So, it’s crucial to choose your activities wisely.
Some of the best types of exercise for back pain include:
While exercising with back pain, remember to start slowly with short periods of activity. Make sure to rest in between your workouts. If you feel any pain or other concerning symptoms, such as numbness or tingling in the extremities, stop exercising and consider other activities.
The most common lower back pain causes include:
Strains and sprains are the most common causes of lower back pain. Strains involve stretching or tearing of the muscles or tendons, while sprains involve stretching or tearing of the ligaments.
The causes and treatments of strains and sprains are similar. Overexerting the back while lifting a heavy object, suddenly twisting the back, or falling are possible causes. To treat lower back sprains and strains, physicians typically recommend rest and at-home care, such as heat/cold therapy.
Patients may benefit from physical therapy for sprains and strains. A physical therapist can recommend stretching and strengthening exercises to alleviate tension while improving support for the back.
The spinal structures, including the vertebrae, facet joints, and intervertebral discs, naturally degenerate with age. This degeneration can contribute to spinal conditions like a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, and osteoarthritis. All of these spinal conditions can lead to chronic lower back pain.
Lower left back pain and lower right back pain can be caused by any of the common back pain causes listed above. However, if you have one-sided back pain along with other symptoms, such as fever and/or pain while urinating, the pain could be stemming from an internal organ. So, in this case, make sure to receive a medical evaluation promptly.
Especially in young adults, participating in sports is a key risk factor for lower back pain. According to Medscape, 7% to 13% of all sports injuries in college athletes are lower back injuries. Additionally, certain sports are more likely to trigger back pain than others.
The sports that present the highest risk of lower back pain include gymnastics, soccer, and dance, according to a 2009 study published in Sports Health.
Here are the symptoms and conditions that might make back surgery an optimal solution for you:
Back injuries and conditions that compress your spinal nerves can cause debilitating back pain and/or numbness, tingling, and weakness in the legs.
With a bulging, ruptured, or herniated disc, the rubbery discs that cushion and separate the bones in your spine are injured. So, the spinal structures are subject to more impact with day-to-day movements.
A fractured vertebra typically causes back pain and spinal instability. Many vertebral fractures heal on their own, while others require surgery. or other damage to your spinal column from a back injury. A fractured disc will cause pain, and also leaves your spine unstable, often causing additional back pain.
You may also be diagnosed with a condition that causes back pain and additional progressive nerve compression:
For lower back pain relief in severe cases, spinal surgeons may recommend one of the following types of lower back surgery:
Spinal decompression is the most common lower back pain surgery. It involves alleviating pressure on the spinal nerves by removing certain spinal tissues.
Several procedures fall under the umbrella of spinal decompression, including:
During fusion surgery in the lower back, your surgeon will secure bone graft material in between one or more vertebrae. This process permanently fuses the targeted vertebrae to prevent spinal instability.
Unfortunately, lower back fusion eliminates all independent motion of the vertebrae. This significantly diminishes patients’ back flexibility and may keep them from performing certain activities. Fusion also largely prolongs the recovery time for lower back surgery.
Recent innovations in spinal surgery, such as the TOPS™ System from Premia Spine, can prevent spinal instability after decompression surgery without compromising the patient’s mobility. The TOPS™ System is a non-fusion spinal implant that moves with the spine, protects neighboring segments from degeneration, and preserves spinal mobility.
Your spinal surgeon’s primary goal is to eliminate your back pain and restore your quality of life. When a progressive condition is diagnosed through testing and examination, back surgery may certainly move to the forefront of your surgeon’s mind. It’s their job to consider the best, most individualized treatment options to eradicate back pain before it becomes worse.
Back Surgery Can Potentially Cure Your Pain
There are several different types of back surgery proving successful at resolving patients’ back pain issues, each involving the highest level of surgical technology available today, as well as the skill of a board-certified spinal surgeon. If your spinal specialist advises back surgery, you’ll embark upon a learning process about the different available back surgery procedures – guided by your physician. You always want to get your information directly from your spinal surgeon, since back surgery information online can be outdated or incorrect, and Googling back surgery topics can sometimes cause unnecessary anxiety. The best course of action for researching back surgery procedures is to prepare a list of questions for your surgeon, and request all of the back surgery literature possible that your doctor can provide you with so that you can fully understand what will be done during your surgical procedure.
Overall, back surgery can accomplish several different pain-relieving goals, including removing portions of the bone to widen the narrowed area in your vertebrae, which can cause back pain. Your spinal surgeon may remove the gel-like middle section of a ruptured disc to relieve pressure on pinched nerves in the back. And sometimes, the damage to a disc is so severe, your doctor has to remove the entire disc and then fuse together the remaining discs.
Below is a list of some of the different types of back surgery that may be the customized choice for your back damage or condition:
Since back surgery is a complex procedure, work with your spinal surgeon to explore all your options. Every situation is different and you need to feel secure that you have fully researched which type of back surgery would be best for you, and if back surgery is necessary at all. And of course, your doctor will guide you through all the information you need regarding recovering from back surgery and what you can expect for your post-surgery lifestyle.
reference: www.mayoclinic.com