Chronic back pain seems to be an epidemic in the US. We all know someone who suffers from it, or maybe we do. Our spine allows us to move freely and without pain as long as the structures are not damaged. The disks between our vertebrae are a prime example. They are the cushions that keep our vertebra from touching each other and causing that pain. Unfortunately those disks can become unhealthy due to age or damage from an accident, but fortunately patients with back pain can have a disk replaced with a metal or plastic one. When should you consider an artificial disk replacement?
What Is Artificial Disk Replacement Surgery?
Spine & Scoliosis Specialists performs artificial disk replacement surgery in Greensboro & High Point, NC. During the procedure, your surgeon exchanges the damaged disk with a mechanical one that replicates the spine’s movements, restoring the patient’s range of motion and relieving them from pain, allowing normal movement.
Artificial disk replacement surgery involves a minimally invasive approach, and patients have a shorter hospital stay and a quick recovery. In addition, research shows that disk replacement decreases the likelihood of needing another surgery in the future.
Signs It’s Time to Consider a Artificial Disk Replacement
You Have Degenerative Disk Disease
While pain is the most common symptom, this can also cause numbness, weakness, or shooting pain. This disease becomes more prevalent with age as the disks experience more wear and tear.
Spine & Scoliosis Specialists will perform a thorough examination and review imaging tests like an MRI, X-rays, or CT scans to make a definitive diagnosis.
You Have a Herniated Disk
This is a condition where the outside cover of a disk becomes cracked with the soft inside spilling out. This can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, and weakness. A pinched nerve can cause pain from your spine all the way to the tips of your hands and feet. Artificial disk replacement can help.
You Have Tried Other Treatments
You have tried conservative ways to relieve your pain, but you get no relief. Now might be the time to consider an artificial disk replacement.
Maybe you have tried OTC pain medications, cortisone injections, physical therapy, muscle relaxers, and heat therapy. If you still have pain, talk to Spine & Scoliosis Specialists about an artificial disk replacement surgery.
Who Is a Candidate for Artificial Disk Replacement Surgery?
Not everyone can have an artificial disk replacement surgery.
You must meet these qualifications:
- Your chronic pain is a result of your intervertebral disks.
- You are at a healthy weight and in good condition.
- You have a healthy spine and no deformities like scoliosis.
- There is no significant compression.
- You haven’t previously had spinal surgery.
You don’t have to live with chronic back pain.
Contact Spine and Scoliosis Specialists at 336.333.6306 if you suffer from lower back pain and live in Greensboro or High Point, NC.