After unsuccessful attempts at physical therapy, you might consider back surgery as a last resort. However, back surgery is not always the best option for everyone. This is information to think about when deciding whether back surgery might be right for you. If you have tried other methods or have been living with back surgery for an extended period of time, then you should understand the risks involved and the long-term consequences. There are numerous risks that can come from back surgery, including infection, disc herniation, and reoccurring pain and disability.
Spinal fusion, which involves fusion of one vertebra with another in the hopes of correcting a spinal abnormality that has left you with back pain, may be a common surgery. Spinal fusion can produce very favorable results for many patients. Spinal fusion (or verubescence), like laminectomy, is one of the most common surgery options used for treating back pain and spinal fusion is considered relatively safe. In order for your doctor to determine the likely success of spinal fusion, he or she will need to perform an evaluation and review your medical history, perform a physical examination, take x-rays, and generate a diagnostic report. If the doctor determines that spinal fusion is a suitable treatment option, he or she will likely discuss it with you and ask you to make sure you understand the complications and risks associated with the procedure.
If you find that your doctor is unable to convince you that back surgery is the best option, or even that it is a viable treatment option, then you should try to research other forms of treatment, such as acupuncture, exercise, physical therapy, and massage therapy. Chiropractors are particularly qualified to treat patients who do not respond favorably to standard back surgery or those who have suffered significant weakness, numbness, and/or paralysis from their back pain. There are several qualified chiropractors in your area that can help you find relief from your back pain and restore your mobility.