Research Notes on Back Surgery
Although back pain is extremely common, surgery is rarely effective in treating it.1 Back surgery is typically only used in situations in which there is a pinched nerve, a compression of the spinal cord, or if there is too much movement between the spinal bones.1 Some physicians will suggest back surgery if there are symptoms of nerve damage.1
Fast Facts:
- Individuals with sciatica may find relief with back surgery.2
- Back surgery is typically less effective for those with degenerative disc disease.2
- Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, vertebral fractures and discogenic low back pain may all indicate the need for back surgery.2
Top Resources on Back Surgery
- Mayo Clinic: Back Surgery: When Is It A Good Idea? | Spinal Fusion
- Spine-Health: Back Surgery And Neck Surgery
- False Creek Surgical Center: Back Surgery
- WebMD: Surgery Often Won't Cure Back Pain (Feb. 25, 2005)
- eMedTV: Back Surgery
- ABC News: Back Surgery Not Always The Cure For Pain (May 23, 2006)
- Wikipedia: Failed Back Syndrome
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Research Notes References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Mayo Clinic: Back Surgery: When it is a Good Idea?
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 eMedTV: Back Surgery
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About this WisdomCard
- Contributor: SScroggins
- Reviewer: Nicole Kinsey
- Supervised by: The OrganizedWisdom Physician Review Team
- Last update: Oct. 1, 2008
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