Back pain can be debilitating and significantly impact your quality of life. Sometimes, conservative reliefs work, such as short-term bed rest, stretching, and physical therapy. Other times, more intense treatments are required to help relieve chronic pain or restore mobility. That’s where back surgery comes in.
Before you make any decisions about it, there are three things you should know:
1. There Are Many Types Of Back Surgeries
First, understand the types of back surgeries available for your condition. Different procedures address different causes of symptoms. Here are some examples:
Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is a procedure that can help with conditions like disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis. During spinal fusion, the surgeon fuses two or more vertebrae together to help reduce pain and increase stability.
Discectomy
Discectomy is another typical back procedure. This surgery removes a herniated disc from the spine, relieving pain and allowing for better mobility. A doctor may recommend this procedure if you have sciatica or nerve root impingement caused by a herniated disc.
Laminectomy
Laminectomy is a procedure that removes part of a vertebra’s lamina or roof. This surgery opens up space in the spine and releases pressure on the spinal cord. Laminectomy may help if you have a herniated disc, a bone spur, swelling, a tumor, or a bulging disc.
Artificial Disc Replacement
This procedure replaces a herniated, damaged, or diseased disc with an artificial one, allowing for better movement and reducing pain.
These are just some of the common back surgeries that can help you. Your provider can recommend the best procedure for your condition and needs.
2. You Should Learn About The Risks And Benefits
Before any surgical procedure, it’s vital to understand the risks and benefits. With back surgery, you should be aware of the potential complications, including the following:
- Nerve damage
- Bleeding
- Infection
In addition, not all surgeries will be successful in pain relief and mobility restoration. Talk with your doctor about the risk of failure and the likelihood of it occurring with the specific procedure they recommend. You should also understand the potential benefits of back surgery, such as pain relief and improved mobility.
Your doctor can provide more information on the success rate of the procedure. They will help you weigh the risks and benefits of the surgery to help you make an informed decision.
3. Recovery Time Is Different For Everyone
Finally, you should understand that recovery time varies for different people and types of procedures. Generally, back surgery requires anywhere from four to eight weeks of rest.
You will likely need to do these things to facilitate your recovery:
- Attend physical therapy sessions
- Perform stretching and strengthening exercises
- Limit physical activities, such as lifting heavy objects or running
- Take pain medications as prescribed
- Refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol to promote healing
- Eat a balanced diet
- Observe healthy sleeping hygiene
- Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider
During this time, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to have the best possible outcome. Contact your provider if you observe any unusual symptoms, such as severe pain, signs of infection, or worsening mobility.
It’s also important to remember that healing takes time. It won’t happen overnight. Be patient and give your body the time it needs to recover from surgery.
Back Surgery In Colorado Springs, CO
Do you need back surgery in Colorado Springs, CO? Look no further than Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery. Our highly trained, experienced, and dedicated team of surgeons is here to help you. Call our friendly staff at (303) 790-1800 to learn about our comprehensive services and make an appointment. You can also book a consultation by filling out our secure online request form.
We look forward to helping you live your best life!
