People suffering from chronic back pain or abnormality in the spine often consider spine surgery as their last option. But how do you know when your condition is really in need of surgery? They encourage people to explore other options first before even considering surgery, such as physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes. Here is a list of signs that suggest there may be a need for spine surgery.
1. Persistent or Worsening Pain
One of the most common indications for spine surgery is chronic pain that has not improved with non-operative treatment. If you have lived with chronic back or neck pain for months, and conservative treatments—medication, physical therapy or injections—are ineffective, surgery may be indicated.
2. Numbness or Weakness in Limbs
If the issue at hand is in the spine but has causal effects on nerves, this could lead to numbness, tingling, or weakness of your arms, legs, and/or feet. These symptoms occur when other structures compress the spinal cord or nerve roots — as in the case of a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. An increasing amount of numbness or weakness, or continuing numbness, usually indicates it should be surgically treated to prevent permanent nerve injury.
3. Loss of Mobility
If back or neck pain is causing enough disruption to your daily life that you are compromising the quality of your life, then surgery becomes an option. Losing the ability to move is likely one of the most serious issues that can significantly affect your quality of life. when nonsurgical treatment is not effective, surgery may be necessary to improve motion and reduce pain.
4. Failed Previous Surgeries or Treatments
However, the patients may have previously experienced their spine, number of surgeries, or numerous treatments in vain. In such a case, further interventions are usually recommended to treat the source of the pain and reduce short- and long-term effects.
5. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control
Spinal problems are rare, but they can affect the use of your bladder or bowel very badly. It represents a surgical emergency, and immediate surgery is needed in some cases to avoid irreversible nerve damage or paralysis.
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, schedule an appointment with a spine specialist who will diagnose your condition properly. Diagnostic tests, such as MRI scans or CT scans, will confirm your specific pain cause. Your doctor will consider all treatment options with you and surgery is only recommended if conservative treatments have not worked.
Spine surgery can be an incredible assistance for seconds, however it isn't right for everybody. A specialist examination will ensure that you receive the appropriate therapy for your condition.
(- Dr. Vuppu Ravikanth, Consultant Neuro and Spine Surgeon, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada)
