Don’t Wait Till You Need Back Surgery

Most people who are experiencing unrelenting back pain can’t stand the thought of getting surgery.  They will exhaust all non-surgical options first, and if the problem persists, will wait it out hoping that the condition will eventually resolve.

While chiropractic, physical therapy, and a preventive program of back exercises can spare the need for surgery there are some conditions where surgery is the only viable option left.  These include:

• disc prolapse– where the inner nuclear material of a disc has ejected into the spinal canal and is pressing against the spinal cord and/or a nerve root causing symptoms (tingling, weakness) down the legs;
• severe degenerative disc disease, where one or more discs has lost most of its fluid content, has developed painful fissures, and is allowing the surfaces of adjacent vertebra (vertebral bodies) to come into contact with each other;
• spinal stenosis– a condition where the spinal canal narrows from bone spurring/ degeneration and obstructs the spinal cord.

In each of the above cases, a physical element deep within the spine is precipitating the pain to the point where manual therapies and exercises alone cannot reverse.  These patients are referred to an orthopedic surgeon specializing in spinal surgery.  The surgeon will usually order an MRI to assess the severity.  Then, a consultation will be scheduled where the patient will be informed of his options, and what to expect.

So the question becomes, is there anything one can do to avoid developing back problems that require surgery?  The answer is yes.  Here’s how:

1.  Lose the weight (if this applies to you).  Carrying those extra pounds over the years will place additional stress on your lower back, potentially weakening your discs over time.

2.  Stop smoking.  Smoking is known to interfere with proper tissue regeneration.  If you strain your back and you’re a pack a day smoker, it may not heal properly. increasing your risk for future injury.

3.  When at work, avoid prolonged sitting.  Get up and stretch a couple of times each hour to decompress your back and exercise your spinal joints.

4.  Lift properly:  kneel down, hold object close to your body, use your leg muscles, and try not to twist your back while carrying something heavy.

5.  Strengthen your core.  Your core consists of your abdominals (front and side) and lower back muscles.  The significance of these muscles is that they support your lower spine from the front and the back, much like a tent pole is supported by opposing wires.  If one set is weak, you will be more prone to developing back problems.

6.  Watch the activities that require repetitious jumping:  weekend basketball, badminton, volleyball, dancing, improper running.  Only do in moderation.

7.  Get a good mattress.    Don’t skimp on your mattress; you are spending a good amount of your life on a mattress.  Get one that provides excellent support.  TempurPedic is the one I recommend (I also sell them at my clinic as a Professional distributor).

And, consider getting regular chiropractic check ups.  Over time, the pelvis can get unbalanced and vertebrae can get locked together.  Spinal adjustments can restore movement, which will help keep your spine healthy.