NEUROSURGERY INTERNATIONAL
Chronic back pain – that persistent ache that refuses to go away – can have a significant impact on your daily life. Simple activities such as walking, sitting, or even sleeping can become a challenge. You are not alone. Many people struggle with ongoing back pain, and while conservative treatments like pain relief medication and physiotherapy often help, they are not always sufficient. When this happens, consulting a neurosurgeon may be the next step.
What Causes Chronic Back Pain?
Chronic back pain can result from various issues affecting the spine. Think of your spine as a complex structure of bones, discs (which act as cushions between the bones), and nerves. Problems in any of these areas can lead to discomfort.
Common causes include:
- Herniated Discs: Imagine a jelly doughnut. A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel-like substance bulges out, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain.
- Spinal Stenosis: This refers to the narrowing of the spaces within the spine, often due to bone spurs, leading to pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Think of it as a crowded corridor where movement becomes restricted.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, spinal discs lose their cushioning and become thinner, leading to stiffness, pain, and nerve compression.
A common factor in these conditions is nerve compression. When nerves are pinched or irritated, they send pain signals to the brain, resulting in persistent and often debilitating discomfort.
When Should You See a Neurosurgeon?
If you have been undergoing conservative treatments for chronic back pain for several months without relief, it may be time to consult a neurosurgeon. These specialists focus on surgical solutions for conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nerves.
Surgical intervention may be recommended if:
- Your pain is severe and significantly affects your quality of life.
- You experience weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs or feet.
- MRI or CT scans reveal a clear structural problem, such as a herniated disc pressing on a nerve.
- Non-surgical treatments have failed to provide lasting relief.
Surgical Options for Chronic Back Pain
Advancements in neurosurgery have made spinal procedures safer and more effective. Some common surgical treatments include:
- Spinal Injections: Procedures such as nerve root blocks, radiofrequency ablation of facet joints, and nucleoplasty are minimally invasive day surgery options that effectively manage chronic pain.
- Discectomy: A minimally invasive surgery that removes the damaged portion of a herniated disc, relieving pressure on the nerve.
- Laminectomy: This procedure creates more space within the spinal canal, reducing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Spinal Fusion: This technique stabilises the spine by permanently joining two or more vertebrae together, reducing pain caused by movement.
- Artificial Disc Replacement: In some cases, a damaged disc can be replaced with an artificial one to preserve spinal movement while alleviating pain.
Many of these procedures can now be performed using minimally invasive techniques, resulting in smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery times.
Recovery and Rehabilitation: Getting Back on Your Feet
Recovery after spinal surgery varies depending on the procedure performed. You will likely work with a physiotherapist to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. Following your neurosurgeon’s guidance is crucial for a smooth recovery. Long-term pain management may involve continued physiotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, medication.
Take Control of Your Health
Chronic back pain does not have to define your life. If conventional treatments have not provided relief, consulting a neurosurgeon can help you explore surgical options tailored to your needs. Don’t let pain hold you back – seek expert advice and take the first step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle.
At Orthopaedics International, our team of specialists provides expert diagnosis and personalised treatment plans to help you manage and overcome chronic back pain. Schedule a consultation with Dr James Tan, our Neurosurgeon Specialist today and take the first step towards lasting relief.
