Back pain is one of the most common medical problems in the United States, affecting 8 out of 10 people at some point in their life. It can be caused by various things, including injury, disease, or even stress.
If back pain impacts your quality of life, you may want to consider speaking with a surgeon to see if they can improve your quality of life and reduce your pain with surgery. This blog will discuss the top five surgeries used to relieve pain in the back.
Spinal fusion surgery
Spinal fusion surgery is a procedure that fuses, or joins, two or more vertebrae in your spine and is performed to correct problems with the bones and ligaments. These problems can include:
- Back pain
- Misalignment of the spine
- Compressed or “pinched” spinal cord or nerves
Spinal fusion surgery aims to stop motion between vertebrae that may be causing pain, instability, or misalignment or problems with strength. Spinal fusion may be performed using metal rods, screws, cages, or other devices to hold the vertebrae together while they heal into one solid bone. Recovery times may vary for specific conditions.
Discectomy surgery for back pain
Discectomy surgery is a type of back surgery that involves removing herniated or damaged disc material from the spine. This surgery is performed to relieve sciatica caused by a herniated disc. Discectomy can be done using open or minimally invasive techniques. Recovery from this type of surgery usually takes several weeks, and most people experience significant improvements.
Laminectomy surgery
Laminectomy is a back surgery to relieve spinal cord or nerve pressure. The lamina is a thin layer of bone that covers the spinal cord. Laminectomy surgery involves removing a portion of the lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
Laminectomy surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day as your surgery. The surgery usually takes about two hours, and you will likely experience some pain and discomfort after the surgery. However, this pain can be managed with medication.
Foraminotomy
A foraminotomy is a surgical procedure that enlarges the foramen, the small openings between the bones in your spine. These openings allow the nerves to exit your spine and travel to other body parts. If they become narrow or blocked, they can pressure the nerves and cause pain. A foraminotomy can relieve this pressure and help reduce back pain.
Disc replacement surgery
Disc replacement is a spinal surgery used to relieve pain and restore movement in people with degenerative disc disease. The surgery aims to remove the damaged disc and replace it with an artificial one. This can help relieve pain by restoring the normal alignment and motion of the spine.
End your back pain today with our proven treatment methods
If you’re one of the millions of people suffering from pain in your back, don’t worry. There are many surgical options available to help you get your life back.
At GNS Surgery Center, we offer various procedures that have been proven to fix back pain for good. With our team of experienced surgeons and support staff, you can be on your way to a pain-free life in no time. Don’t wait any longer – schedule a consultation with us today.
