Back problems are one of the most debilitating health issues that reduce a person’s quality of life. There are a variety of ways doctors treat back problems. One of them is spinal fusion. Spinal fusion, also known as Spondylosis, is a surgical procedure used to treat a variety of back-related problems. This surgical procedure involves bone grafting or using bone-like pieces to bridge the gap between two vertebral segments. This results in a single, sold bone. If you have a back problem, spinal fusion may be able to help reduce your pain and help you heal. Let’s take a look at what kinds of conditions spinal fusions can treat.
Conditions Treated by Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusions are done to restore stability in the spine. The back is made up of numerous bones called vertebrae and discs that fit together neatly in the spine. When an issue happens in a vertebrae or disc, patients experience pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility. Spinal fusions help correct issues of the spine by fixing the position of vertebrae and discs that have moved out of place due to a variety of reasons. Some of the conditions spinal fusions correct are spondylolisthesis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, scoliosis, and spinal fractures.
Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra) Spondylolisthesis refers to degenerative changes in the vertebrae or discs in the spine. Examples include bone spurs or degenerating discs. When these issues happen, the pieces that make up the spine begin to change shape and slip out of place. Spinal fusions work to correct these unwanted movements.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis Two of the most common disorders treated through spinal fusion are rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. These conditions cause inflammation between the vertebrae due to degeneration of bones. This results in back pain and limited mobility.
Scoliosis Another condition commonly treated through spinal fusion is scoliosis. Scoliosis occurs when the spine or the backbone curves sideways, in a C or S-shape. This form in the spine results in uneven shoulders and hips, causes leaning on one side, and is often painful.
Spinal Fractures Spinal fractures are often treated using spinal fusion. When a spinal fracture happens, a bone in the spine has cracked or broken into multiple pieces. This often happens in serious car accidents in which the spine faces significant trauma. Spinal fusion helps bridge the broken bones together in order to restore their function and reduce pain from the fracture.
If you suffer from back pain or have a health condition that affects your back, it’s important to have a team of reputable and skilled doctors by your side. The experts at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery are happy to help you get better from any back related problem you have through state-of-the-art treatments like spinal fusions. Our team of board-certified surgeons specializes in neurological and spine surgery and can be trusted with any issue you may have. Call us today to schedule a consultation at (303) 790-1800, or request an appointment online.
