Back pain is a common health concern, affecting nearly everybody at some point in their lives. If you are experiencing back pain, you might realize that it takes a huge toll on your life quality, and typically becomes a burden to your everyday routine. Although most back problems are treatable with less intrusive solutions, Roswell spine surgery is sometimes the best alternative to deal with more severe back pain. This post highlights some common signs when spine surgery may be necessary for your back issue. Continue reading to learn more.
- You Have Pain That Radiates to Your Legs and Arms
Your spine comprises bones called vertebrae, and the spinal cord runs through the middle of these vertebrae. Moreover, nerves traveling between every vertebra affect various body areas. If nerves in the lower back get damaged or pinched, you will experience radiculopathy, or radiating pain to your arms and legs.
The most prevalent causes of radiculopathy are bone spurs and herniated discs. Surgery for radiculopathy is effective as it alleviates the pressure on the affected nerves. Therefore, if you experience constant radiating pain, you should consult a spine surgeon.
- You Experience Reduced Mobility
Chronic back pain affects your range of motion, which can impact your work or school performance, and your ability to engage in your beloved activities like hiking, sports, and more. Back pain accompanied by mobility issues often signifies a more serious underlying issue like arthritis or degeneration. Therefore, it is important to contact a spine center for an assessment. Spine surgery often alleviates the pain, enhances your mobility, and gives you back control of your life.
- You Have Weakness or Numbness in Your Legs
Experiencing leg weakness or numbness is not something you should dismiss. Conditions such as spinal stenosis or the narrowing of your spine may cause weakness and numbness. Spina stenosis generally happens with age, and may affect any area of your spine, but it mostly occurs in the lumbar or lower back area.
Often, you will not notice symptoms initially, but as the condition worsens, you may develop symptoms like constant leg weakness, numbness, and lost sensation in your feet. Leg weakness and numbness could also stem from tumors, disc herniation, or spine infections. Therefore, if you experience constant symptoms, consult your spine surgeon for a comprehensive assessment.
- You Have a Spinal Fracture
Serious back injuries from falls, vehicle collisions, or sporting activities can lead to a spinal fracture. While mild fractures are treatable with conservative treatment, like wearing a brace and physical therapy, serious spinal fractures may cause chronic pain, accompanied by tingling and numbness. Consult your spine surgeon immediately to explore surgical solutions for your spinal fracture.
- You Have Progressive Spinal Deformity
Spinal deformities stem from abnormal spinal rotation or curvature, and the most prevalent form of spinal deformity in adults is scoliosis. Often, scoliosis results from progressive wear and tear of the back because of previous back surgeries or age.
You might have a mild curvature that worsens with time, leading to the deterioration of the vertebrae and compressing vital organs, such as the lungs. If you have already received treatment for your scoliosis and still experience worsening symptoms of numbness, pain, back stiffness, and weakness, consult your spine specialist about your surgical alternatives.
Back pain is one of the leading reasons for disability and doctor’s appointments. In most cases, back pain is acute, implying that it lasts several days to weeks, and you will experience no loss of functionality. This back pain is manageable with solutions like anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, epidural injections, steroid shots, and lifestyle changes.
However, if back pain persists for over three months or is associated with any of the warning signs highlighted above, you should contact a spine surgeon. Whether your condition requires open or minimally invasive surgery, your specialist will advise you accordingly.
