Back pain is very common among people. However, although it is common, it can be painful, depending on the condition of the spine. Trauma, aging, improper body mechanics and normal wear and tear are the major reasons for lower back pain.
Back Pain can be a result of any damage to any part of your back or any pressure on the nerves in the spine. Laser spine surgery is not the answer to your back problems. In fact, back surgery is needed in only a small percentage of cases.
Most back strains can be taken care of with conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, gentle massage, ice, heat and anti-inflammatory medication. Only when conservative treatments do not work, you can opt for lower back surgery.
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Do you need Laser Spine Surgery?
It is advised to go for a Laser Back surgery:
- If you are faced with a feeling that compresses your spinal nerves, giving you back pain or numbness along the back of your leg.
- In some severe cases of bulging or ruptured (herniated) disks
- If your bones are broken or other damage
- If you have vertebral fractures and osteoporosis.
- If all conservative measures have failed
The following conditions may require surgery if they are progressive :
- Radiculopathy, the irritation and inflammation of a nerve caused by a herniated disk
- Spinal stenosis, narrowing of the spinal canal typically from arthritis
- Kyphosis, a humpback deformity
- Spondylolisthesis, the forward slippage of a segment of the spine
- Scoliosis, a curvature of the spine
- Degenerative disc disease, the development of pain in a disk as a result of its normal wear and tear.
In addition to following the doctor’s post-surgical recommendations, such as rehabilitation and physical therapy, here are a few lifestyle changes for patients to consider:
- Anti smoking:
Nicotine interferes with the quick healing process post-back surgery. It specially applies for fusion, as nicotine is known to inhibit the bone growth that is necessary to achieve a solid fusion.
- No alcohol:
Alcohol may increase the sedation when consumed in combination of narcotic medications and muscle relaxants. Alcohol reacts badly with a few medications, so read the medication instructions carefully and consult a health care provider or pharmacist with any questions.
- Use lumbar support & ergonomics:
Ergonomic chairs and maintaining a correct posture for back support is important. Avoid placing undue strain on the structures in the back by using low back supports, ergonomic seating. Keep good posture to keep the spine in proper alignment.
Sitting for a long period of time can put a strain on the low back, simply because it is difficult for most people to maintain good posture when they do so. Prolonged sitting can be uncomfortable after surgery, and it is recommended that a person changes their position, every half hour.
- Well balanced weight:
Excess weight means extra pressure on weight-bearing structures, including the discs in the low back. Maintaining a healthy weight will help minimize loading on the spine. This is important as our back is a sensitive part, and pressurizing it would mean that not only your expenses will mount, but even your health is at risk.
About the Author:
Jasmine Bilimoria is a research writer and a contributor with Same Day Spine. Same day Spine Institute specializes in minimally invasive treatments of the spine, using latest cutting edge technologies, such as stem cells, laser discectomies, artificial discs, spinal cord stimulators, minimally invasive fusions, etc for spinal treatments.
Originally posted 2013-08-13 04:06:35.