Do I need back surgery?

Back surgery is not for everyone. Surgery is most effective when performed to correct anatomical defects that have been clearly identified and diagnosed. For example, scoliosis is a spinal deformity which can be successfully treated through modern surgical techniques. On the other hand, back pain in general may not be successfully resolved with orthopedic spine surgery, even though the surgery itself is performed successfully.

At Hunt Spine, we never rush our patients into spine surgery. It is important to understand that in non-emergency situations, spine surgery is considered an elective surgery. Back pain can sometimes be addressed just as effectively through physical therapy and other alternative treatments as through spine surgery. It is considered a beneficial practice to undergo 6 months of alternative therapy before considering orthopedic spine surgery.

Specific conditions that often require spine surgery are:

• Disc degeneration
• Bone spurs
• Spinal stenosis
• Scoliosis
• Kyphosis
• Certain spinal cord tumors
• Certain cases of spinal instability

If your symptoms include leg and arm numbness or tingling, orthopedic spine surgery may be a viable option as these often indicate pressure around the spinal cord which can be resolved through surgery. Back pain by itself is not always caused by damage to the spine or pressure on the spinal cord, and therefore does not necessarily require surgery.

To learn more about what’s causing your back condition and what can be done about it, the next step is a personal consultation with the doctors at Hunt Spine. During this time, they will determine the underlying cause of your back symptoms and answer any questions you may have. By ensuring you are well informed through every step of treatment, our surgeons have developed a reputation for being the most compassionate surgeons, delivering some of the best orthopedic spine surgery results. Please call us at (310) 423-9834 to schedule your appointment today.