It is true that many cases of back pain can be resolved using conservative treatment methods, especially if the underlying cause of the pain is a sprain, strain, and other soft tissue injury. However, patients with chronic back pain who do not get relief from nonsurgical treatments may have a structural issue in the spine. In such a case, surgery may be necessary to deliver long-term relief. When a patient has chronic back pain, a doctor will diagnose the condition and attempt to use conservative treatments to bring relief when possible. When this is not an option, surgical procedures, such as spinal fusion surgery, can be the answer.
Spinal Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion surgery corrects the instability caused by a deformity in a patient’s spine. Spinal fusion surgery can treat fractures and degenerative conditions. This procedure involves the placement of a grafted bone material in between vertebrae, held in place with screws and rods, which will eventually fuse together. After fusion, the grafted material and vertebrae will become a single unit, which will correct the underlying issue and relieve symptoms. During the procedure, the surgeon may also address other issues that may be irritating nerves near your spine by removing bone as a way to allow for decompression.
Benefits of Spinal Fusion Surgery
Getting any type of surgery is a serious decision that should take expert recommendation and careful consideration into factor. Fortunately, for a patient whose quality of life has been severely affected due to a spinal problem, spinal fusion surgery can provide great results.
Pain Relief
Pain becomes all-consuming to anyone frequently suffering from it. Spinal fusion surgery can bring relief because it also allows for more space to be created around the spinal line, relieving pressure and irritation on vulnerable components of the spine. For many patients, spinal fusion surgery heavily reduces or completely eliminates pain.
Reduce Spine Deformity
Spinal fusion surgery can correct deformities of the spine that may cause more problems later on. The fusion process addresses deformities causing issues and creates a straight and stable spine, which is necessary for proper, pain-free movement.
Address Instability
Spinal fusion surgery aims to reduce the movement between vertebrae that causes instability and pain. Normally, vertebrae should move without issues, but with a vertebral deformity, vertebrae can rub against each other and irritate the surrounding nerves and soft tissues. In addition, the instability can produce more problems later on, necessitating surgical intervention in the future.
When performed successfully, spinal fusion surgery can be life-changing for patients with spine issues and pain symptoms. Today, spinal fusion surgery can be a minimally-invasive procedure, which involves less tissue damage and pain and offers a faster recovery.
Spinal Fusion Surgery in Rochester Hills, Bad Axes, and Lapeer, Michigan
If your back pain is holding you back from living your best life, the spine experts at Ahlgren Spine can diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment available. Our goal is to relieve your pain, restore your mobility, and improve your quality of life.
To schedule an appointment with a spine specialist, call Ahlgren Spine at (248) 215-8080 or submit a request now, and we will get back to you quickly.
