Not all back problems require spinal surgery. In fact, given the risks associated with any surgery, it’s often better to try conservative treatments first. So, how do you know when it might be time to think about back surgery, and is spinal surgery worth it?
While there’s no single “right” answer, here are three common signs you might need back surgery.
1. Conservative Treatment Has Failed
Sometimes, nonsurgical treatments like physiotherapy, nerve blocks, and anti-inflammatory medications are enough to control your back pain, especially if you have a chronic condition like kyphosis or spondylolisthesis. Acute conditions, such as disc herniations, also often respond well to conservative management.
However, if your pain doesn’t settle within a few months or it’s affecting your quality of life, you might consider back surgery. It may also be worth discussing back surgery if you have a degenerative condition such as spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease.
2. You Suffer a Traumatic Injury
If you’re injured in an accident, there’s a chance you may have sustained a spinal injury, which can cause serious complications if left untreated. Signs of a spinal injury include:
- Neck or back pain
- Point tenderness
- Muscle spasms
- Weakness, numbness, or tingling
Not all injuries require surgery, but it’s important to speak with a doctor as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
3. You Have Serious Spinal Pathology
While many back problems are extremely painful, pain doesn’t always mean there’s a serious problem in your spine. However, there’s a good chance you’ll require back surgery if you have a condition such as:
- Spinal infection
- Cauda equina syndrome
- Spinal tumor
Contact your doctor immediately if you have back pain along with any of the following “red flag” symptoms:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Severe pain at night
- Night sweats or fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Numbness or weakness in the leg or arm
- Difficulty lifting your toes and the front part of your foot
- Numbness or loss of sensation around your genitals, buttocks, anus, or inner thighs
Don’t ignore these symptoms—they could lead to permanent spinal nerve damage if left untreated.
Is Back Surgery Worth It?
It can be, depending on your condition.
All surgery involves some degree of risk, so in many cases it’s best to try conservative treatment options first. However, if you suffer from chronic pain or your symptoms significantly affect your quality of life over the long term, it may be time to discuss back surgery with your doctor.
If it’s a medical emergency, surgery may be the only way to prevent permanent damage to your spine and nearby nerve roots. In these cases, the benefits of surgery often outweigh the risks.
How to Know When It’s Time for Back Surgery
Do you think you might need spinal surgery? The Interventional Spine & Surgery Group offers a range of non-surgical and surgical treatment options to help manage acute and chronic back problems.
If you’re in New Jersey and considering back surgery, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help.