Yes. In actuality, spine surgery is only ever necessary in less than 5% of patients with a spinal problem.
Pain affects people differently, even though back pain brought on by ailments like spinal stenosis is extremely common. Surgery is sometimes the best or the only choice to treat back pain, although it is typically only used as a last resort after less invasive procedures and pain management have failed or are no longer as effective as they once were.
No matter what, you don’t need to let back discomfort compromise your quality of life or health. At Specialty Care Clinics, our physicians and pain management experts provide non-surgical pain management options based on your unique needs, way of life, and health profile.
SPINAL STENOSIS NON-SURGICAL THERAPIES
Back surgeries are performed on about 500,000 people annually because of back pain, but they are not a cure-all for the condition or a surefire way to be successful. Surgery is the best option in some circumstances, but for the majority of people, a combination of physical therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, diet and exercise, and non-surgical pain treatments is the best way to deal with the pain brought on by conditions like sciatica, spinal stenosis, and arthritis, among others.
By narrowing the spinal column, spinal stenosis raises the risk of vertebral fracture and nerve compression, which can cause pain and numbness in the back and limbs. Spinal stenosis pain can make it difficult to carry out daily tasks, affect mobility, and even impair walking depending on the severity and extent of the condition.
The following non-surgical treatments for back pain caused by spinal stenosis are the most popular ones :
Injections
An epidural injection is the sort of injection that is most frequently used to assist treat the symptoms of spinal stenosis. The region around particular nerve roots is treated with medication (often a steroid) using this form of injection (the epidural space). Inflammation and sharp pain that travels to the arms or legs are both lessened by the medicine. The usual procedure is to provide a series of three injections over a few weeks.
Taking painkillers (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or NSAIDs)
There are numerous drugs that can be used to treat pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms. Even though some medications are sold over-the-counter (OTC), it is best to avoid combining them with the prescription medicines your doctor prescribes unless specifically instructed to do so by him. OTC pharmaceuticals can have negative side effects that are as dangerous as those from prescription drugs.
Physical therapy
PT frequently mixes therapeutic exercise and inactive therapy. Heat or ice packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and massage are examples of inactive therapy. By releasing tense muscles and reducing pain or discomfort, these treatments aid in preparing the patient for active therapy. Stretching and exercises that have been specifically designed for therapeutic purposes can help stabilize the spine, develop strength and endurance, and improve flexibility.
Back support
Smoking cessation and lifestyle changes that support a healthy weight are additional typical components of a back pain management strategy.
Traditional back surgery can be replaced with Veriflex, a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Allowing space between the vertebrae relieves compression in the spine and the pain and numbness that goes along with it.
Although the technique necessitates a minor incision, you won’t endure the protracted recovery time and adverse consequences common to standard surgery. The majority of patients say their back discomfort has decreased quickly following the treatment, and the device is made to continue offering support and pain relief for several years.
WHAT IF I AM ONE OF THE 5% WHO REQUIRES SURGERY?
Surgery is a significant decision, regardless of the type. Your surgeon will give you a full explanation of your surgical alternatives. You can think about bringing a relative or acquaintance along for an extra set of “ears.”
To cure the problems brought on by spinal stenosis, a small number of people do require spine surgery. Pressure relief on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots is the aim of surgery.
An expert opinion is required to know the optimal treatment plans. To speak with a specialist at Specialty Care Clinics, call (469) 545-9983.