3 doctors about to perform spine surgery

3 Compelling Signs That You Might Need Back Surgery

If you’re having trouble with your back and are unsure whether or not you should undergo surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional. They can help determine whether or not your condition requires intervention by way of surgery or other methods—and they’ll be able to guide you through the process so that you feel prepared for whatever comes next!


Back pain is so common in the United States that it’s become almost a part of life for many people. It can be debilitating, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right treatment, most cases of back pain can be resolved within a few months.

 

Some types of back pain can be treated without surgery. Taking over-the-counter pain medications and engaging in physical therapy can help most people get relief. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to resolve a particular issue.

 

If you believe you might need back surgery, here are some signs to watch out for.

Man having trouble walking due to leg pain

1. Pain Moves to Your Arms and Legs

Are you tired of feeling the constant ache in your arms and legs that just won’t seem to disappear? It could be a sign that your back is in need of some TLC. A pinched nerve in the spine could be the culprit, but don’t fret, surgery can provide the relief you need.

 

Sometimes, back pain requires a more significant solution. The formation of bone spurs due to arthritis can put pressure on nerves and cause discomfort. Think of it like two gears grinding against each other, as the cartilage in spinal bone joints wears away, the bones begin to rub creating spurs that can press against nerve roots and cause pain. If this sounds familiar, it may be time to consider surgery as an option for relief.

 

Do you know the feeling of a pinched nerve in your spine? That’s what a disk herniation can feel like. It’s when the soft, jelly-like material inside your spine decides to make an escape through the protective outer layer of the disk. This puts pressure on the nerve roots, causing pain and other symptoms also known as radiculopathy. It’s like having a kink in a hose, the water flow (nerve impulses) gets blocked, and you feel the pain. Understanding what’s going on inside your body can help you to take the right steps to alleviate the pain.

Car accident lead to severe back trauma

2. Severe Back Trauma

Imagine being involved in a severe accident, leaving your back in shambles. The spine may have suffered a fracture or dislocation, or the discs between the vertebrae may be herniated. These types of injuries can be debilitating and require immediate medical attention. In such cases, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the spine and reduce the pain.


But the trauma doesn’t stop there, sometimes it can even damage the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or loss of feeling. In these dire cases, surgery may be the only way to repair the damage and give the patient the best chance of recovery.

 

Take Cauda Equina for example, it’s a serious medical condition that can cause permanent paralysis if not treated immediately. It’s usually caused by an infection, an injury, a tumor, or long-term pressure on the nerves in the lower back. Symptoms such as intense lower back pain, loss of sexual function, loss of bladder or bowel control, and weakness or numbness in the lower body are a telltale sign of Cauda Equina. It’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage.

Cauda equina is a bundle of nerve roots located at the lower end of the spinal cord. These nerves provide motor and sensory function to the lower extremities, including the legs, feet, and pelvic organs. Cauda equina syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when the nerve roots in the cauda equina become compressed, often as a result of a herniated disk or spinal tumor. Symptoms include lower back pain, leg weakness, and loss of bladder or bowel control. It is considered a medical emergency and prompt diagnosis and treatment is essential to prevent permanent nerve damage.
Woman taking meds to calm her pain

3. Constant Pain

Constant pain is like an unwelcome guest that never leaves, especially when it comes to back trauma. The pain can range from a dull ache to an intense burning sensation. Inflammation of the spine or muscles and the buildup of scar tissue from an injury are the usual suspects. It can be incredibly frustrating, especially when the discomfort has been lingering for a long time, and it seems to be getting worse instead of better.

 

But don’t lose hope, managing the pain is possible. Medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as proper posture and exercise can help. Sometimes, surgery may be the best option to address the underlying cause of the pain. It’s like performing an operation on the root of a tree, it may be painful and difficult, but it’s necessary to see improvement in the long run. Don’t let constant pain control your life, seek help and take the steps to manage it.

Do you think you might need back surgery?

Constant pain in the back is a red flag, it could be an indication of a severe medical condition. It’s like a warning signal from your body, telling you to pay attention. If you’re experiencing this symptom, don’t wait, seek medical attention as soon as possible. It’s vital to determine the cause to receive the appropriate treatment.


When it comes to treating back pain, Long Island Neuro is here to help. We’re the top pain management doctors on Long Island, who are dedicated to assessing your spine and back health. Think of us as your personal spine detective, we’ll work with you to find the root of the problem and provide the best treatment possible. Don’t let constant back pain control your life, contact us today and start your journey towards a pain-free life.