Spinal Cord Stimulation Eases Pain, Boosts Function for People With Prosthetic Legs

Spinal Cord Stimulation Eases Pain, Boosts Function for People With Prosthetic Legs

People who’ve lost a leg due to injury or disease are often plagued by what’s known as phantom limb pain — discomfort arising in the area, despite the absence of the limb.

Now, researchers report that people who wear a prosthetic leg after amputation may have that pain eased, as well as improved sensation in their new foot, using spinal cord stimulation.

“We are using electrodes and stimulation devices that are already frequently used in the clinic and that physicians know how to implant,” said study senior author Lee Fisher, of the University of Pittsburgh. “We are leveraging those technologies to produce meaningful improvement in function and reduction of pain. That’s exciting and we’ve been building it for a while.”

The technology involves special pressure sensors that are placed on the prosthetic’s foot. These sensors trigger signals that are sent to the person’s spinal cord. The technology appears to ease pain and help users walk better, the research team said.

If proven successful, the spinal stimulation technology might help a wide range of people dealing with an amputation — those whose leg was amputated due to trauma, as well as those who fell prey to the nerve damage of advanced diabetes.

“We are able to produce sensations as long as the spinal cord is intact,” said Fisher, an associate professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Pitt. “Our approach has the potential to become an important intervention for lower-limb amputation.”

According to background information in a Pitt news release, over 1.5 million Americans now live with a lower-limb amputation. About eight of every 10 say they suffer from phantom limb pain in the missing leg and/or foot. Most of this pain does not respond to medication.

As well, many prosthetics don’t include the kind of sensory feedback functionality used by Fisher’s group. That makes balance more difficult when using a prosthetic.

The new technology essentially replaces severed connections between the spinal cord and the foot with the new cord-stimulation technology.

“A pair of thin electrode strands implanted over the top of the spinal cord in the lower back was connected to a cell phone-sized stimulation device delivering electric pulses of varying amplitude and frequency,” the researchers said.

Using this technology, Fisher’s team was able to help study participants walk or stand in real time over the three-month course of the study.

The participants appeared to gain real improvement in balance control, Fisher’s team reported Dec. 14 in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering. That was true even under challenging conditions — for example, standing with eyes closed on an unstable, moving platform.

As a welcome bonus, participants also reported an average 70% reduction in their phantom limb pain, the investigators said.

How soon until patients everywhere might benefit? According to Fisher, with “proper support from industry partners, [this could be] translated into the clinic in the next five years.”

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Chicago collaborated on this research.

More information

Find out more about phantom limb pain at the Cleveland Clinic.

SOURCE: University of Pittsburgh, news release, Dec. 14, 2023

Copyright ©2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
What Are Back Spasms, and Can They Be Treated?

What Are Back Spasms, and Can They Be Treated?

“Oh, my aching back!” Everyone has uttered these words at some point, in response to the sharp, sudden pain that comes with back spasms.

This article will explore the causes of back spasms, their symptoms and, most importantly, effective treatments. Whether you’re experiencing your first spasm or seeking ways to prevent future episodes, understanding the triggers and what to do is key.

What is a back spasm?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, back spasms can range from tiny twinges to crippling contractions that leave you unable to move. They occur when the muscles in your back contract involuntarily and intensely. The sensation can vary widely from person to person. For some, it may come on as a mild, dull ache or an occasional twitch; for others, it can escalate into sharp, excruciating pain that becomes debilitating.

What causes back spasms?

Many factors can contribute to these sudden and often painful muscle contractions. Understanding the underlying triggers is essential in both preventing and addressing back spasms.

The Cleveland Clinic provides this list of common back spasm causes.

  • Insufficient muscle usage — Prolonged periods of sitting, poor posture, lack of exercise and underutilizing back and abdominal muscles can result in weakness, making the muscles prone to spasms and discomfort.
  • Overexertion and excessive use of muscles — Athletes and individuals involved in heavy lifting activities may experience spasms due to muscle strain, which involves small tears in the muscle fibers, causing inflammation.
  • Dietary factors — Inadequate water, potassium and calcium intake can contribute to back spasms. These essential nutrients are vital for maintaining proper muscle function and preventing imbalances that can trigger spasms.
  • Mental and emotional well-being — Anxiety and stress can lead to muscle tightness, potentially resulting in spasms and discomfort.
  • Traumatic incidents such as falls or car accidents — The sudden impact or force applied to the back can strain the muscles, ligaments or even the spine itself, causing pain and spasms as a protective response.

Back spasm symptoms

Back spasm symptoms are like a distress signal from your body, alerting you to underlying issues. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial in addressing and managing back spasms effectively.

The Mayo Clinic lists these symptoms:

  • Back pain ranging from a muscle aching to a shooting, burning or stabbing sensation.
  • Pain can radiate down a leg.
  • Bending, twisting, lifting, standing or walking can make it worse.

Generally, back pain will subside after rest and home care. However, you should consult your doctor or health care provider if the pain:

  • Lasts longer than a few weeks.
  • Is severe and doesn’t improve with rest.
  • Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain goes below the knee.
  • Causes weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs.
  • Is paired with unexplained weight loss.

Seek medical attention immediately if pain causes new bowel or bladder problems, is accompanied by a fever or follows a fall, blow to the back or other injury.

Back spasm treatment

Various treatments can help alleviate the discomfort and promote healing. The Mayo Clinic notes that treatment options for back spasms may include:

  • Applying ice or heat — The application of ice packs or heating pads can help reduce inflammation and soothe muscles. Cold therapy is generally recommended within the first 48 hours of a spasm, while heat therapy can be beneficial for relaxing tense muscles in the days that follow.
  • Over-the-counter pain medications — Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, can temporarily relieve back spasms by reducing pain and inflammation.
  • Prescription medications — In some cases, muscle relaxants may be prescribed to help alleviate muscle tension and provide relief from severe spasms.
  • Physical therapy — A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the back muscles, improve flexibility and correct posture. A therapist may also utilize massage, manual therapy and electrical stimulation techniques to help manage pain and reduce spasms.
  • Alternative therapies —Complementary treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care and yoga have shown promise in relieving back spasms for some individuals. These approaches focus on improving overall well-being, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension. However, according to the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, there’s low- or moderate-quality evidence that these practices may be helpful for chronic low-back pain.

How to stop back spasms

When back spasms strike, finding quick and effective ways to stop them becomes a top priority. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to get on track to a pain-free day.

  • Stretch it out — Gentle stretching exercises can help relax muscles and relieve tension, potentially easing back spasms, according to Alberta Health Services.
  • Apply heat or cold therapy — The Mayo Clinic notes that heat helps reduce pain by relaxing and loosening tense muscles, which can help speed healing. Further, alternating between heat and cold packs can help reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area, providing temporary relief.
  • Practice good posture — Maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing and lifting can alleviate strain on back muscles, reducing the likelihood of spasms.
  • Stay active — Regular exercise, particularly activities that strengthen the core and promote flexibility, can aid in preventing future back spasms by improving muscle strength and stability.

Back spasms can be managed and alleviated

Back spasms can be a disruptive and painful experience, but they can be effectively managed and alleviated with the right approaches. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options for back spasms empowers individuals to take control of their well-being and find relief.

From applying heat or cold therapy to practicing good posture and engaging in targeted exercises, there are various strategies available. Remember, if back spasms persist or worsen, it is important to seek professional medical advice to receive personalized guidance and ensure the most appropriate course of action for your specific condition.

Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Sciatica: What Is It, and How Can You Ease the Pain?

Sciatica: What Is It, and How Can You Ease the Pain?

If you have had a sharp pain shooting down one leg, you may be experiencing a condition called sciatica.

Here is what you need to know about sciatica, including what it is, its causes, symptoms and treatments. Plus, learn about medications, self-care and stretches that may provide relief.

What is sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve travels from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. The pain may be severe but usually clears up in a few weeks.

Sciatica nerve pain causes and risk factors

Causes of sciatic nerve pain include anything that affects the sciatic nerve, according to Penn Medicine:

  • Slipped or herniated disk
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Piriformis syndrome
  • Pelvic injury or fracture
  • Tumors
  • Spondylolisthesis

The Cleveland Clinic notes that risk factors include:

  • A current or previous injury
  • Normal wear and tear
  • Excess weight or obesity
  • Insufficient core strength
  • Your job
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Physical inactivity
  • Improper form when lifting
  • Tobacco use

Sciatica symptoms

Penn Medicine further reports sciatica pain can vary from mild tingling to a dull ache or a burning sensation. Typically, the pain affects one side of the body. It may worsen:

  • After standing or sitting
  • At night
  • When sneezing, coughing or laughing
  • When bending backwards or walking a few yards
  • When straining or holding your breath

Sciatica treatment

Sciatic nerve pain will typically improve on its own, although the following treatments may provide relief:

  • Medications including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen, steroids, antidepressants, seizure medications and opioids.
  • Applying heat or cold to the sore muscles and ensuring that you are moving may also help.

If your condition persists, your health care provider may recommend surgery.

Sciatica stretches

Stretches may help alleviate the pain caused by sciatica. It is always important to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen. These stretches are from Brian Jones, a physical therapist at HSS Rehabilitation and Performance in New York. If you find that any of these stretches increase your pain, stop immediately. Ideally, the stretches can be done daily, with a minimum of twice a week.

Glute bridge

  • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart. Allow your arms to rest straight at your sides, palms down.
  • Tighten your core, drawing in your belly button toward your spine.
  • Press your arms into the floor for support and push through your heels, raising your hips toward the ceiling and squeezing your glutes. The goal is for your body to form a straight line from head to knees, with very little arch in the lower back.
  • Hold 5 to 30 seconds. Lower slowly.

Clamshell

  • Lie on your side with both knees bent. Tuck your bottom arm under your head to support it.
  • Engage your core, drawing in your belly button toward your spine.
  • Keeping your feet together, slowly raise your top knee, opening your legs like a clamshell opens. Use your top arm to help steady yourself so you don’t roll toward your back.
  • Hold 5 to 30 seconds. Lower slowly.

Bird-dog

  • Start on all fours. Be sure your hands are directly below your shoulders and your knees are directly below your hips.
  • Engage your core, drawing in your belly button toward your spine. Gaze forward and slightly down (about a foot in front of your hands) to avoid putting stress on your neck.
  • Lift your left arm straight in front of you and extend your right leg straight behind you. (You can do this at the same time or one and then the other.) Be sure they are in a straight line with your back. (Doing this next to a mirror can make it easier to check your form.)
  • Pause, then lower your hand and leg. Check that your back is still straight, not sagging or hunched. Readjust your gaze if your neck is bothering you.
  • Repeat with the other leg and arm.

Living with sciatica

“Most cases of sciatica resolve in less than 4 to 6 weeks with no long-term complications even if no medical therapy is sought,” Dr. David Davis of Orange Park Medical Center in Jacksonville, Fla., writes in StatPearls. “In more severe cases or cases where the neurologic deficit is present, the patient may have a more prolonged course of recovery. However, recovery is still excellent.”

Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising if possible, and completing your stretching exercises may help improve your pain and prevent future recurrences. Seek medical help if your condition does not improve, or if it worsens. If you have bowel or bladder issues, or are unable to move your leg, it is time to seek immediate care.

Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Upper Back Pain: Causes and How to Treat It

Upper Back Pain: Causes and How to Treat It

If you suffer from upper back pain, it’s time to reclaim your comfort and regain control of your daily life. Relief from this debilitating condition is within reach.

Here, you will learn about the causes of upper back pain and strategies to alleviate your discomfort.

What is upper back pain?

Imagine discomfort that takes residence between your shoulder blades, affecting your daily life, and keeping you from doing many of the things you love. That’s just what upper back pain entails — a sensation of pain or discomfort from the base of your neck to the bottom of your ribcage. According to Dignity Health, this form of back pain can vary in intensity, ranging from a mild annoyance to a debilitating ache, and it can either be persistent or surface only during certain activities.

While back pain is widespread, upper left back pain and upper right back pain are less common than their counterparts in the lower back. The bones in your upper and middle back form a sturdy connection with your ribcage, limiting their mobility compared to the more flexible bones in your neck and lower back. This unique skeletal structure contributes to the distinctive nature of upper back pain, requiring specific attention and care.

What is causing my upper back pain?

If you are experiencing upper back pain, you want to understand what is causing it. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that upper back pain emerges from diverse medical conditions and injuries, each with its unique set of triggers. Here are the most common causes:

  • Strains and sprains — Among the leading causes of upper back pain, strains occur when muscles, tendons or ligaments are subjected to excessive stress. Poor lifting techniques or attempting to lift objects beyond your capacity can result in these injuries.
  • Poor posture — Many individuals with upper back pain struggle to maintain an upright stance. Their posture may become compromised, causing them to stand askew or hunched, with their torso deviating from proper alignment with the spine.
  • Disk problems — Disks in the spine tend to slip or “bulge,” exerting pressure on nearby nerves. They can also experience tears, commonly referred to as herniated disks, further contributing to upper back pain.
  • Fractures — Accidents, such as car crashes or falls, can lead to fractures in the bones of the spine, which invariably generate intense upper back pain.
  • Arthritis — Osteoarthritis, a widespread form of arthritis, can instigate upper back pain as it affects the joints and cartilage, causing inflammation and discomfort.

What are the symptoms of upper back pain?

Back pain is one of those things that can creep up on folks, catching people off guard. NewYork-Presbyterian says you may experience these upper back pain symptoms:

  • Sharp pain — Often described as a burning sensation or akin to the piercing thrust of a knife, this sharp pain can be localized to a specific spot or radiate, traveling along a nerve pathway to affect other areas.
  • General achiness — Starting in one particular region, a sense of overall achiness may gradually extend to neighboring areas, contributing to a pervasive discomfort.
  • Stiffness — Reduced mobility in your back, brought on by pain or achiness, can lead to stiffness, limiting your range of motion and making it harder to move.
  • Tingling, numbness or weakness — These sensations, reminiscent of pins and needles, numbness or weakness, can be a sign of the compression or impingement of nerves in the affected area.

How to relieve upper back pain

There are so many variables when it comes to back pain,” said Dr. James Dowdell, a spine surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York City. “How it can be treated depends on what’s causing it. Ultimately, some types of back pain can be helped with surgery, and some can’t.”

That said, tailoring your treatment approach to your upper back pain’s specific causes and symptoms is critical. For individuals experiencing mild to moderate discomfort, home management strategies are worth considering. Here are some options for upper back pain relief from the Cleveland Clinic:

  • Over-the-counter pain medications — Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain or inflammation.
  • Heating pad — Applying a heating pad to the affected area can help ease pain and alleviate stiffness, promoting relaxation and improved mobility.
  • Ice pack — To address pain and swelling, consider using an ice pack or a cold compress. This can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary relief.
  • Medical massage — A professional trained in medical massage can target specific muscles and promote relaxation, potentially reducing pain and tension.
  • Adequate rest — Prioritize sufficient rest to allow your body time to heal and recover. Adequate sleep and moments of relaxation can help you manage your symptoms.

Consider stretches for upper back pain as well. HSS recommends stretches such as a trunk rotation, a slouch overcorrection stretch, and a standing lumbar extension. And never underestimate the power of self-care to help alleviate upper back pain. The Mayo Clinic reiterates the importance of being active in your daily routine and performing low-impact exercises like walking.

The path to recovery: Navigating the challenges of upper back pain

Upper back pain can take an immense toll on your everyday life. The throbbing discomfort, the limitations it imposes and the frustrations it breeds are all too familiar. But you are not alone in this journey toward relief and recovery. With proper understanding, tailored care and a compassionate support system, you can triumph over the silent suffering of upper back pain and embrace a life filled with all those activities and experiences you have been missing.

Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Getting Rid of Neck Pain: 6 Ways to Feel Better

Getting Rid of Neck Pain: 6 Ways to Feel Better

The phrase “pain in the neck” is a tongue-in-cheek way to describe annoying situations or people that test our patience, but for those who experience genuine neck pain, it’s no laughing matter.

Neck pain can be a debilitating condition that affects daily life and leaves sufferers longing for relief. This article will explore some practical strategies to alleviate neck pain and provide self-care tips, neck pain exercises and other helpful treatments to try.

Neck pain causes

Neck pain, also called cervicalgia, is the discomfort experienced in or around the spinal area beneath the head. The Cleveland Clinic says neck pain is common, affecting 10% to 20% of adults.

And it should come as no surprise that your neck, medically known as the cervical spine, plays a crucial role in supporting the weight of your head and facilitating its movements. But various injuries and medical conditions can give rise to neck pain. Left untreated, neck pain can become a persistent hindrance, interfering with your daily activities and diminishing your overall quality of life.

In an article, Dr. Zacharia Isaac, medical director of the Comprehensive Spine Care Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and director of interventional physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School, writes that neck pain usually builds over time.

“Neck pain rarely starts overnight,” he writes in a school web page. “It usually evolves over time. And it may be spurred by arthritis or degenerative disc disease, and accentuated by poor posture, declining muscle strength, stress, and even a lack of sleep.”

Fortunately, most neck pain causes are not severe and can be effectively addressed through conservative treatments. The Mayo Clinic provides this list of common neck pain causes:

  • Muscle strain — Activities like prolonged computer or smartphone use and seemingly minor actions such as reading in bed can strain the neck muscles due to overuse.
  • Worn joints — Like other joints, the neck joints can experience wear and tear over time. This can lead to the development of bone spurs, affecting joint motion and triggering pain.
  • Nerve compression — Chronic neck pain can be attributed to the compression of nerves caused by bone spurs or herniated disks within the vertebrae of the neck. As these structures exert pressure on the nerves branching out from the spinal cord, it can lead to persistent discomfort.
  • Injuries — Rear-end auto collisions often cause whiplash injuries, where the head is forcefully jerked backward and forward, straining the neck’s soft tissues.
  • Diseases — Certain medical conditions, such as meningitis, rheumatoid arthritis or cancer, can potentially have neck pain as a symptom.

Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that pain that may come on quickly or slowly and that lingers for weeks, three months or more is considered chronic. Chronic neck pain is less common than acute pain.

Neck pain symptoms

Recognizing and understanding the symptoms associated with neck pain is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. By being aware of these telltale signs, you can gain insights into the nature of your discomfort and take appropriate measures to alleviate it.

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons says that in addition to neck pain, pressure on a nerve root or the spinal cord by a herniated disc or a bone spur may result in the following neck pain symptoms:

  • Pain in the arm
  • Numbness or weakness in the arm or forearm
  • Tingling in the fingers or hand
  • Difficulty with balance and walking
  • Weakness in the arms or legs

Neck pain on the left side commonly stems from non-serious factors like muscle strain due to an uncomfortable sleeping position or inflammation. Occasionally, there may be serious underlying causes such as tumors or arthritis.

Similarly, pain on the right side of the neck is typically attributed to causes like muscle strain, poor sleeping posture or improper alignment. If the pain persists for an extended period, it is advisable to consult a doctor for guidance on medical treatments and potential home remedies.

Overall, neck pain is not something to ignore. Keck Medicine of USC says headache, a fever and a stiff neck may be signs of meningitis.

How to get rid of neck pain

Harvard Health offers these six strategies for neck pain relief:

  1. Avoid prolonged static positions: To prevent your neck from getting stuck in an unhealthy position, it’s important to avoid staying in one posture for too long. Regularly moving and changing positions can help alleviate strain.
  2. Optimize your workspace ergonomics: Adjust your computer monitor to eye level, use hands-free options for phone calls and consider wearing a headset. When using a tablet, prop it on a pillow at a 45-degree angle instead of keeping it flat on your lap.
  3. Keep your eyeglasses updated: “When your eyewear prescription is not up to date, you tend to lean your head back to see better,” Isaac said.
  4. Limit pillows while sleeping: Sleeping with excessive pillows under your head can limit your neck’s range of motion. It is advisable to use a supportive pillow that promotes proper spinal alignment.
  5. Respect your physical limits: Before attempting any strenuous activities that may strain your neck and back, such as moving heavy furniture, consider the potential impact and seek assistance if needed.
  6. Make quality sleep a priority: Sleep disturbances have been associated with an increased risk of various conditions, including musculoskeletal pain. Establishing healthy sleep habits can contribute to overall well-being, including neck pain management.

Exercises can also help you manage neck pain. Scotland’s NHS Inform recommends movement and stretching exercises. Performing neck stretches involves simple and controlled movements. One option for a movement exercise is to start by facing forward and gradually turn your head to one side until you feel a gentle stretch on the opposite side of your neck. Hold for two seconds, then return to the starting position before repeating the stretch on the other side.

The Mayo Clinic also recommends pain relievers for acute neck pain relief. Pain relievers might include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). Be sure to follow all dosage recommendations and take only as directed.

Neck pain relief is possible

Neck muscle pain can be a disruptive force, affecting daily activities and overall well-being. Understanding the causes, symptoms and effective treatments makes it possible to seek relief. Whether through self-care practices, targeted exercises or medical interventions, the path to a pain-free neck is within reach.

Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
The Most Common Back Surgeries, Explained

The Most Common Back Surgeries, Explained

Imagine a life where even the simplest movement becomes a painful endeavor.

Back pain, a pervasive ailment affecting millions, can turn daily routines into exhausting and painful challenges. Back surgery emerges as a potential solution when conventional treatments fall short, offering hope for those trapped in chronic pain.

What are the most common back surgery types, and how do they bring relief? This article will explore the purpose of these surgeries, their benefits, the conditions they can help address and recovery times.

Most common back surgery types

According to StatPearls, 23% of adults worldwide endure chronic low back pain. While the majority of back pain resolves naturally within three months, there are instances where back surgery can provide relief for specific types of back pain. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, back surgery is rarely necessary and should be considered only when other treatment options have been exhausted and the pain becomes debilitating.

However, a handful of different approaches can be taken for back surgery, depending on your level of pain and the severity of symptoms.

Here are the four types of back surgeries:

Diskectomy

According to the Mayo Clinic, a diskectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the damaged portion of a herniated spinal disk. It offers relief by alleviating pressure on irritated or compressed nerves. Typically, it is most effective in treating pain that radiates down the arms or legs due to nerve compression. However, if the pain is localized solely in the back or neck, diskectomy may be less beneficial than alternative treatments like weight loss, arthritis medication or physical therapy.

When nonsurgical interventions are ineffective or symptoms worsen, a health care provider may recommend a diskectomy. This procedure can be performed as a minimally invasive diskectomy, which many surgeons prefer. Utilizing small incisions, a microscope, or a tiny video camera for visualization, minimally invasive diskectomy offers a less invasive option for patients.

You could go home the day of surgery, but a short hospital stay might be needed, especially for those who have other serious medical conditions, the Mayo Clinic says. You may be able to return to work in 2 to 6 weeks, but full recovery could take 6 to 8 weeks if you have a job that includes heavy lifting or operating heavy machinery.

Laminectomy

Johns Hopkins Medicine says that a laminectomy is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on spinal nerves by removing a portion of the lamina, the bony arch covering the spinal canal. It is commonly performed for spinal stenosis, which narrows the spinal canal and compresses nerves, causing pain, numbness or weakness. Recovery time after a laminectomy varies, but it typically involves a hospital stay of a few days and several weeks to months for a full recovery.

Physical therapy may aid in restoring strength and mobility. While laminectomy carries potential risks — such as infection or nerve damage — patients should discuss benefits, risks and recovery expectations with their health care provider before deciding on surgery.

Spinal fusion surgery

Back fusion surgery is performed to join two or more vertebrae in the spine, eliminating motion between them. This surgical intervention addresses spinal instability, fractures or chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc disease.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, back fusion surgery involves placing bone grafts or artificial materials between the affected vertebrae, which eventually fuse together over time.

Dr. James Bruffey, an orthopaedic surgeon with Scripps Health in San Diego, explains a non-fusion procedure for a spinal fusion patient in this Scripps video. “A surgery done from the front of the spine gives us access to the disc spaces… because that’s where we can achieve the best effect as far as getting our fusions to heal and getting the spine realigned in its more anatomic position.”

The recovery time following spinal fusion surgery can vary. Generally, patients may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the procedure. During the initial recovery period, which can last several weeks, patients may need to wear a brace to support the spine and aid in healing. It is important to note that full recovery from spinal fusion surgery can take several months, and physical therapy may be recommended to improve strength, flexibility and overall spinal function.

Back surgery can provide relief in extreme cases

If you are experiencing back pain, it is generally recommended that you exhaust nonsurgical or more conservative treatment options before considering back surgery.

Dr. Ray Oshtory, an orthopaedic spine surgeon at California Pacific Medical Center, said in a recent article that, “Surgical methods have advanced tremendously in their ability to solve some back problems in a minimally invasive way. However, studies show that when it comes to back pain alone, without other symptoms, surgery doesn’t work any better than rehabilitation.”

Remember, the decision to undergo back surgery should always be made in close consultation with your doctor, ensuring that the chosen path is the most suitable for your specific circumstances.

Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Call Now Button