1. Know Your Doctor Will Recommend It Only as a Last Resort
Unless you have had back pain for several months that is severe enough to greatly restrict your daily living skills, your doctor is unlikely to offer surgery as a method of pain relief. In fact, physicians rarely suggest surgical intervention unless the nerves are so compromised that they affect muscular function, or disrupt the function of the bowels and bladder. Otherwise, you will likely be given a regime of stretches and pain medications, or even a referral to a physical therapist for more conservative treatment. There are risks associated with spinal surgery, such as nerve damage and chronic pain, that often outweigh the benefits.
2. Understand There Are Two Main Approaches
Most degenerative disc surgeries are either fusions or disc replacements. In spinal fusions, the involved vertebrae are permanently joined to eliminate nerve trapping or irritation during spinal movement. In disc replacements, the spongy cushions between the vertebrae are removed and replaced with implants. This is far more risky and complicated than a simple fusion, and was only recently approved in the United States. While fusions and replacements account for the majority of degenerative disc surgeries, there are other options. Sometimes, a surgeon will remove bone from around the degenerated disc to allow greater room for movement, which may be enough to provide adequate pain relief.
3. Keep in Mind After Surgery You May Still Have Pain
Following degenerative disc surgery, inflammation around the surgical site can cause nerve irritation and may be present for several weeks. Muscle weakness due to disuse is another source of post-operative discomfort, especially if you have had degenerative disc disease for some time. For some, the formation of scar tissue around the incision site may add to discomfort, especially if tissue forms close to nerve roots.
4. Some People Have Better Results Than Others
People who have other medical complications or certain habits have less favorable results after spinal surgery. These include excess weight, poor nutritional habits and smoking. Also, because degenerative disc disease is not a reversible condition, the spine's stability may continue to change over time. Surgeries on discs at other spinal levels may be necessary for relief in the future.
5. Keep In Mind It May Be Months Before You Feel Better
Because your back is active in almost every posture, it may continue to ache even after post-operative swelling and discomfort has faded. Simply standing for long periods of time can be uncomfortable after degenerative disc surgery. Some surgeons will restrict post-operative activity and may even prescribe a supportive brace to be worn for several weeks or months. While one of the most difficult things following spinal surgery may be to stay upright, it is important to rebuild spinal stability with an exercise regime from either a therapist or your physician. It will keep you more stable in the future.
