Understanding the Many Potential Problems of Invasive Spinal Surgeries

Back surgery is a last resort for many people suffering from unbearable chronic pain. As with any surgery, going under the knife isn’t something most people want to do, but it comes as a necessary evil for dealing with the larger problem.

Unfortunately, what most don’t realize is that among surgical procedures, spine surgeries rank high in complications. Many patients report no true resolution to their pain and still more end up with new ailments that cause them new grief. The fact is, spinal surgery is complex and difficult, without any shining examples to justify it in most cases.

At Ideal Spine, we always strive for a non-invasive solution to back pain – one that doesn’t end in surgery. Using a Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) regimen, we strive to personalize care in such a way that our patients experience real, lasting relief whenever possible, no matter the ailment.

Surgical complications

What exactly can go wrong when you go under the knife for an invasive spinal surgery? There’s a laundry list of potential side effects, disruptors, and other problems you might walk away with. Let’s take a look at a few of the most common:

• Addiction: Any surgical procedure will be followed by a period of intense recovery. With this recovery comes discomfort and pain, which are often managed via prescription painkillers. It’s estimated that roughly 30 percent of people prescribed an opioid painkiller will eventually abuse it, with as many as 12 percent of those people going on to become addicts. The opioid epidemic is real and unfortunately, it often starts with a valid prescription.
• Failure to relieve pain: An estimated 20 percent of people who opt for back surgery experience no relief after the fact. This staggering number is so large that it has warranted its own moniker: failed back surgery syndrome.” Ask yourself, is going under the knife worth the 1 in 5 chance of walking away no better than you were before? For many, that answer is no.
• Pedicle screw complications: Pedicle screws are used to anchor vertebrae and provide stability in many spinal fusion surgeries. While strong, made of surgical-grade steel, these screws can sometimes break after the fact if the spine is subject to trauma or overexertion. Damaged pedicle screws need to be fixed right away, prompting another surgery with its own set of complications.
• Nerve damage: Surgery on the spine puts a surgeon up close and personal with your central nervous system. If absolutely anything isn’t precise throughout the surgery, there’s a high risk of bringing harm to the nerves. Nerve damage is permanent and cannot be restored. A scalpel cut too far or displacement of the nerves could leave you with pain, numbness, or tremors.

Rates of spinal surgery complications vary among individuals. For example, someone who smokes may be more prone to complications, just like age or general health factor in.

Worth the risk?

Spinal surgery is invasive, there’s no getting around it. For some, it’s their only option for relief and if it’s your last hope, it’s one worth taking. However, when you stack up the potential complications you’re facing, it’s important to try all other avenues for relief first, including a CBP chiropractic relief plan. At Ideal Spine, we recommend the path of least resistance.

Chiropractic BioPhysics® corrective care trained Chiropractors are located throughout the United States and in several international locations. CBP providers have helped thousands of people throughout the world realign their spine back to health, and eliminate a source of chronic back pain, chronic neck pain, chronic headaches and migraines, fibromyalgia, and a wide range of other health conditions. If you are serious about your health and the health of your loved ones, contact a CBP trained provider today to see if you qualify for care. The exam and consultation are often FREE. See www.CBPpatient.com for providers in your area.