It is a common belief that surgery will fix back pain. But will it fix or can it cure back pain? The answer is most definitely not all the time.
What people need to understand is that surgery changes normal human anatomy. And there are always differences in this anatomy from person to person anyway. Plus over time as the body ages, changes (in the spine) happen that are normal. But too often these “changes” are sold as THE PROBLEM and not what they are. Which are just wrinkles on the inside.
Just know, there will be consequences for changing human anatomy at some point down the road.
Consequences? Yes. When normal anatomy is changed, added stress or strain is placed on other structures in the body (spine). This added stress may eventually cause additional issues…which could lead to more surgery down the road. This is why past back surgery is the #1 predictor for future back surgery.
What we know is that surgery on the back is not advised for local back pain anyway. For individuals with back plus radiating leg pain/weakness surgery could be helpful but no guarantee. AND all other means of conservative care should be attempted 1st. This means actually putting in the time and effort with rehab to learn if it can work to reduce the pain. Because data shows that given time, the body will heal itself. This time frame could be weeks to months.
When is surgery advised for back pain then?
There are a few instances/circumstances where surgery is the best option.
#1 A person experiences new onset of bowel or bladder issues associated with back pain. This is a case where action should be taken sooner than later.
#2 Development of foot drop or marked leg weakness. This is not quite as serious as #1 but close monitoring should be done and action taken if deemed necessary by surgeon.
Those are the two main reasons for surgery to be done on the spine. Outside of that, again, conservative care is #1.
So…we know that surgery will not fix most back pain successfully. This means other avenues of treatment should be explored. Curious what those options might be? If so, then click the following LINK to set up a phone call to discuss potential options. On this call your questions will be answered and options for the best path to success will be revealed.