Treating Disc Surgery

Almost everyone at some point in their lives experience some form of acute back pain.  Whilst it can be very painful and may disrupt one’s life, it does not always require surgery.  There is speculation that back surgery may be overprescribed.  In most cases, the pain goes away with time by using physical therapy, exercise and certain medical drugs.  It is advisable to start with a physical exam from a primary care physician or a chiropractor before consulting a spine surgeon.  Treating disc surgery is in many cases the best option, but should never be regarded in such a way unless one discusses his options with a medical specialist.

The Need for Treating Disc Surgery

Lower back surgery is only proficient in correcting pinched nerves or spinal instability. The disks may be damaged by injury. A sudden heavy strain or increased pressure to the lower back or repeated stimulating activities may lead to the injury. Disease or normal wear and tear caused by aging can also cause lower back pain. As people age, their vertebral discs lose some of the fluid that helps maintain flexibility. This is referred to as a herniated disk.

An imaging study is done to determine the cause of the pain. If a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan cannot identify the cause of the pain, treating disc surgery is not an option. Surgery is usually the patient’s decision and the surgeon should give the patient enough information to assist in the decision-making process. The patient should consider all the pros and cons before going ahead with treating disc surgery. It is also important to get a second opinion from an eligible person.

Treating Disc Surgery Options

There are several types of treating disc surgery. These include:

• Discectomy, sometimes called open discectomy. This entails the surgical removal of herniated disk material that is pressing on the nerve root or spinal cord. This surgery is most effective for people who have tried other non-surgical treatment unsuccessfully.
• Laminectomy and laminotomy: pressure caused by age-related changes in the spine can lead to pain. During this surgery, a portion of the vertebrae that forms a protective arch over the spinal cord is removed.
• Percutaneous discectomy: used on bulging discs, this procedure is done by using a special tool that is inserted through a small incision in the back; tissue is removed reducing the size of the disc herniation. This type of surgery is considered less effective than others.

Less invasive treating disc surgery methods are also available using new technology such as lasers. This requires minimal intrusion. This means faster recovery, less pain after surgery and smaller incisions. The age and overall health of the patient is important when considering any surgery. After all, the ability to recover fast and effectively is determined by how healthy the patient is.

After treating disc surgery, the patient may need to remain in hospital for several days depending on the severity of the procedure. Medication may be needed to relieve pain after surgery. Following a nutritious diet after surgery and maintaining an ideal weight is vital for recovery. This will help reduce unnecessary pressure on the spinal bones. Regular prescribed exercise is also recommended. This will help build muscle and strengthen the heart and lungs. Maintaining a good posture as well as lifting weights properly should be a way of life.