Will Discectomy Help Lower Back Pain?

For millions of people around the world, living with lower back pain can be debilitating, impacting every facet of life. For those suffering from pain caused by a herniated disc, discectomy surgery may be a viable option. In this article you will learn the intricacies of discectomy and its effectiveness in alleviating lower back pain.

Understanding Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is a prevalent condition, often stemming from various factors such as poor posture, muscle strain, injury, or underlying medical issues such as herniated discs. It manifests differently for each individual, ranging from a dull ache to sharp, shooting pains.

The lumbar spine, consisting of five vertebrae and intervertebral discs, bears much of the body’s weight and facilitates movement. When one or more lumbar discs become damaged or displaced, they can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

The Role of Discectomy

Discectomy, a surgical procedure that removes all or a portion of a herniated disc pressing on nerve roots, is a potential solution for severe cases of lower back pain. It is often recommended when conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief. The primary goal of discectomy is to alleviate pressure on the nerves, reduce pain, and restore mobility and function.

How Discectomy Works

During a lumbar discectomy, the surgeon accesses the affected disc through a small incision in the back. Using specialized tools, the surgeon carefully removes the herniated portion. Depending on the extent of the herniation, the surgeon may perform a traditional open discectomy or a minimally invasive procedure.

Minimally invasive techniques, such as microdiscectomy and endoscopic discectomy, offer several advantages, including smaller incisions, less tissue damage, reduced blood loss, and quicker recovery times. These approaches can be particularly beneficial for patients seeking a faster return to normal activities.

Evaluating Effectiveness

Studies have shown discectomy can offer significant relief for individuals suffering from lower back pain caused by herniated discs. Many patients experience a noticeable reduction in pain and an improvement in overall quality of life following the procedure. However, the success of a discectomy depends on various factors, including the severity of the herniation, the patient’s overall health, and his or her commitment to postoperative rehabilitation.

In a systematic review published in the journal Spine, researchers found discectomy provided both short- and long-term pain relief for the majority of patients with herniated lumbar discs. However, the study also highlighted the importance of patient selection and the need for careful consideration of surgical indications to optimize outcomes.

Considerations before Surgery

While discectomy can be highly effective, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and limitations. Factors such as general health, the extent of the herniation, and the presence of other spinal issues should be carefully considered before opting for surgery. Additionally, patients should have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes of discectomy and be aware of the potential risks, including infection, nerve damage, and recurrent disc herniation.

Preoperative evaluation typically involves a comprehensive assessment by a spine specialist, including a review of the patient’s medical history, a physical examination, imaging studies (such as MRI or CT scans), and discussions about treatment options. Patients should actively participate in the decision-making process and discuss any concerns or preferences with their healthcare providers.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from discectomy varies from person to person but typically involves a period of rest followed by gradually increasing activity levels. Physical therapy and targeted exercises may be prescribed to aid in rehabilitation and prevent future recurrences of lower back pain. It is essential for patients to follow their surgeons’ postoperative instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Physical therapy exercises focus on strengthening the muscles supporting the spine, increasing flexibility, and promoting proper posture and body mechanics. Common exercises may include pelvic tilts, bridging, lumbar stabilization exercises, and aerobic conditioning activities such as walking or swimming.

Exploring Alternatives

For those hesitant about undergoing surgery, alternative treatments such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, and epidural steroid injections may provide relief. These options offer noninvasive approaches to managing lower back pain and can be explored before committing to surgery. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before pursuing any alternative therapies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Chiropractic care focuses on spinal manipulation and manual therapy techniques to improve spinal alignment, reduce pain, and enhance function. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerve pathways and promote natural healing processes. Epidural steroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medications directly into the epidural space around the spinal nerves to reduce pain and inflammation associated with herniated discs.

The Importance of Lifestyle Changes

Regardless of the chosen treatment path, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can play a crucial role in managing lower back pain. Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, practicing proper posture, and managing stress can all contribute to overall spinal health and reduce the likelihood of recurring pain.

A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides essential nutrients for bone health and tissue repair. Regular exercise strengthens the muscles supporting the spine, increases flexibility, and promotes circulation. Practicing proper posture and body mechanics can prevent unnecessary strain on the spine and reduce the risk of injury.

Seeking Professional Guidance

Ultimately, the decision to undergo discectomy or pursue alternative treatments should be made in consultation with qualified medical professionals. They can assess individual circumstances, provide personalized recommendations, and guide patients toward the most appropriate courses of action. Open and honest communication between patients and healthcare providers is essential for establishing realistic treatment goals and expectations.

Discectomy offers a promising option for individuals struggling with debilitating lower back pain caused by herniated discs. While it may not be suitable for everyone, its proven effectiveness in relieving pain and improving function can significantly enhance quality of life for many patients. By carefully weighing the benefits, considering alternative treatments, and implementing lifestyle changes, individuals can take proactive steps toward managing their lower back pain and reclaiming their health and wellbeing.

Although discectomy surgery is generally a very successful procedure, patients with a larger hole in the outer ring of the disc have a significantly higher risk of reherniation following surgery. Often, the surgeon will not know the size of the hole until he or she begins surgery. A new treatment, Barricaid, which is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, was specifically designed to close the large hole often left in the spinal disc after discectomy. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital. In a large-scale study, 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in the 2-year study timeframe. 

If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment or how to get access to Barricaid, ask your doctor or contact us today.

For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.