Why Your Common Back Pain Might Not Be So Common
Most people will endure some sort of back pain at least a few times in their life. After all, the back might just be the most centrally important part of your skeletal system, and it bears a lot of weight and stress on a day-to-day basis. Every once in a while, this pain might be enough to justify visiting your doctor, and sometimes it seems to last for far longer than it should. In these cases, spine surgery might be an option that your GP will advise, and here is why.
The Red Flag
Spine surgery is reserved for serious problems with the vertebrae, nerves, and discs that make up your spinal column and ones that are resistant to physiotherapy. When you first go to your GP, they will likely suggest physiotherapy, but that may not be the case if you mention that you have pain radiating in the lower half of your body. This pain can be general and not very powerful, but if you do have it, tell your primary healthcare provider immediately. It can be the tell-tale sign of a bulging disk that is pinching your nerve.
What Does A Bulging Disk Mean?
A bulging disk can occur due to many different causes. It can be sustained through constant pressure at the gym or at work, and it can come from a sudden jolt like a car crash or a fall. What it means is that the disc that is meant to cushion your vertebrae actually is moved out of position and begins to pinch or interfere with the nerves that are located along the same route. These nerves are vital for information to get to your legs and lower body, and if the problem is left for too long, it can cause paralysis. Luckily, there is a solution.
Spine Surgery
Spine surgery can be done to repair this misalignment and remove the bulging disc from occupying the same space as the nerves. It is a relatively simple procedure that doesn't take too long and has a very good recovery rate. Your doctor will refer you to a specialist who will be able to examine you and determine exactly where the problem area is. Then, once your spine surgery is done, you will probably need ongoing physiotherapy to get your full range of motion back. If caught early enough, as almost all bulging discs are because they are quite painful, there is little risk of permanent damage when you have spine surgery.