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The sciatic nerve is the longest in the human body. Starting from the base of the lower spine and going all the way down to your legs, one on each side. Pain in this nerve is commonly referred to as “Sciatica”. But how can you tell if the pain is sciatica or normal lower back pain? Well! Sciatic pain is different from regular pain as it has a sharp and burning sensation to it. When suffering from Sciatica, you will feel the pain radiating from the lower spine and buttocks into your legs.

Leading medical research has found that conservative treatments for sciatica such as using analgesic medication or physical therapies do not improve the natural course of the ailment but only help in managing pain. This is where performing surgery for sciatica becomes necessary.

You may also want to read: Surgical vs non-surgical treatments for back pain

The following sections explain the causes of Sciatica, its diagnosis & symptoms, and how you can go about treating it using surgery for sciatica. Reading through this article will clear your doubts and will help you explain your condition to your doctor in a better way.

What Causes Sciatic pain?

The reason for the occurrence of sciatic pain is mainly compression of spinal nerves (also known as pinched nerve) which can be a result of;

• Herniated disc
• Degenerative disc
• Bulging disc
• Narrowing of the spinal canal (Spinal stenosis)

Diagnosis and Symptoms of Sciatic Pain

Diagnosis for any kind of spinal cord injury normally starts with a physical exam in which the doctor tries to observe the apparent symptoms. It includes;

• Making the patient walk to see how the spine is carrying the weight.
• Have the patient do specific stretches to identify where it hurts.
• Straight leg raise (SLR) is one of the most common physical tests for a sciatica diagnosis. In this test, the person lays down on the floor and lifts both legs one at a time while keeping the other one grounded. Pain during this activity is an indication of sciatica.

If the doctor finds indications of sciatic nerve pain in a physical exam, he/she will ask you for imaging tests. Following are some of the most commonly used imaging tests for diagnosing sciatica;

X-ray – X-ray scans are commonly conducted to identify fractures along the spine, locate tumors and infections, and find disc problems. These scans are helpful to see if any spinal injuries like the ones mentioned above are pinching a nerve. Pictures taken through X-ray scans are not detailed and thus it is hard to conclude the injury. For that, we use MRI or CT scans.

MRI/CT Scans – CT scans are useful to reveal disc herniation and deformities in the spinal canal. It can also be used to examine problems in blood vessels and point out vascular conditions that can be causing sciatica. MRI uses magnetic and radio fields to give a more detailed picture of internal organs. It is considered to be the safest and the most sophisticated technology to diagnose spinal injuries.

Surgery for Sciatica

Once the doctor has established that you suffer from sciatica, he/she will devise a treatment plan for you. Depending upon the condition’s severity, you can be advised surgical or non-surgical treatment to relieve sciatic pain. The doctor first tries to treat the ailment with conservative methods. If such methods do not improve the condition, it leaves patients with no choice but to undergo surgery for sciatica. In the discussion to follow, you will learn how surgery for sciatica is carried out and how much time it takes to recover after surgery.

Procedure

Two surgical procedures are followed to treat sciatic nerve pain. Both relieve the pressure of the pinched nerves causing sciatic pain but targeting different parts of the spine.

1. Laminectomy surgery for Sciatica
   Your spinal canal is protected by a layer of bones known as Lamina located at the back of your vertebrae. Laminectomy involves the removal of a part of the lamina or all of it to create space in the spinal canal. Creating space relieves the pressure from the pinched nerves causing sciatica. As explained, Laminectomy is performed if the problem is found in the back of vertebrae. For problems related to vertebral discs, discectomy is performed.
2. Discectomy surgery for Sciatica
   In this surgical procedure, the surgeon only removes the part of herniated disc or bone spur that is pressing the nerve. It can be performed with minimally invasive techniques using endoscopic instruments.

Both procedures are proven to be effective in relieving pain in most sciatica cases. The success of surgery depends a lot on the experience and skills of the doctor performing it.

Recovery after Sciatica Surgery

The recovery period can be tough for some people as it requires a lot of patience and discipline. Depending upon the condition of the patient, the recovery period can take anywhere between 3 to 6 weeks. If it was a minimally invasive spine surgery, the rate of recovery is faster but in the case of open surgery involving multiple discs, more time goes into the recovery.

Most of the patients can walk the next day of surgery and are discharged within 3 days. It is recommended that you see a physiotherapist and follow a rehabilitation program to avoid any post-surgical complications.

Surgery for Sciatica: See a Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles

Consulting a doctor is very crucial before you jump to any conclusion about cases as sensitive as sciatica. If you feel that you are suffering from sciatic pain, you can see Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery. She is a well-renowned neurosurgeon in Los Angeles who has been treating patients with spine You can read reviews about her on platforms like Yelp and Healthgrades. You can easily schedule an appointment by filling out the contact form or calling us at (213) 369-4583.

Your spine has a bundle of nerves that are responsible for the communication between your brain and the rest of the body. Simply put, whatever you see, hear, smell, feel, and sense the information is communicated back and forth between your body and brain via these spinal nerves. Things get complicated when some of these nerves get compressed due to an injury to the spine that can cause pain (a condition known as spinal cord compression) and other serious medical implications. To treat such a condition, a common surgical procedure – Spinal decompression surgery is performed.

In the discussion to follow, you will read about the causes of spinal cord compression, its symptoms, and how spinal decompression surgery is carried out to treat it.

Consult a Doctor Now: See a spine surgeon in Los Angeles for the treatment of Spinal Cord Compression

What Causes Spinal Cord Compression?

Spinal cord compression occurs when pressure is exerted on the spine due to an abnormal growth of a mass inside it. This mass can be a tumor, bone fragment, or just a swelling. A patient can experience compression anywhere between the cervical spine (neck) and lumbar spine (lower back). Given below are some of the commonly observed causes of Spinal Cord Compression;

• With age, spinal bones can deteriorate due to wear and tear that results in the erosion of the cartilage. In the absence of cartilage, friction between the joints increases leading to the development of bone spurs. A person gets a pinched nerve when this bone spurs press against the wall of the spinal cord.
• People suffering from cancer also develop tumors near the spinal cord that can put pressure on the neighboring nerves.
• Any injury that can cause swelling around the area of the spinal cord.
• A ruptured or damaged disc due to an accident can also cause compression in the spinal cord.

What are the Symptoms of Spinal Cord Compression?

The symptoms of spinal cord compression can develop quickly or it can also take some time, depending on the severity and type of the cause. A direct injury due to an accident can make the symptoms appear immediately while tumors and wear and tear of the spine take some time to cause the symptoms.

Related readings: How spinal cord injuries are diagnosed and treated?

The most commonly observed symptoms of spinal cord compression are as follows;

• Radiating pain that travels down the legs or into the arms
• Weakness and pain in legs
• Numbness in arms, hands, and legs
• Sciatica pain
• Stiff neck or lower back
• Losing control over bowel or bladder movement

What are the Treatment Options for Spinal Cord Compression?

If the symptoms are not severe, your doctor will try conservative methods to treat spinal cord compression. These methods involve medications and physical therapies. However, in case of emergency or extreme symptoms, the patient is given surgical treatment right away. Surgical treatment for spinal cord compression is commonly referred to as spinal decompression surgery.

Spinal Decompression Surgeries

Depending on the location of the injury, spinal decompression surgery can be performed anywhere along the spine from the cervical (neck) to the lumbar (lower back). There are different types of spinal decompression surgeries performed by doctors depending on the type and severity of the injury. Some of the most commonly followed spinal decompression surgical procedures are;

1. Laminectomy and Laminotomy

Laminotomy is a little different from Laminectomy surgical procedure. Both have the word ‘Lamina’ which is the thin layer covering the back of the vertebrae and giving protection to the spinal cord lying inside. However, the word ‘ectomy’ means to remove whereas the word ‘otomy’ means to make an incision. And this is how we differentiate between these two spinal decompression procedures. In Laminectomy, the whole vertebrae or part of it is removed, whereas Laminotomy involves the creation of an opening in the Lamina through an incision. The objectives of both procedures are the same i.e., decompress the spinal nerves and relieve the patient of pain.

2. Discectomy

A herniated disc can also cause spinal cord compression in which the pressure is built due to a bulge. In such a case, surgeons perform a spinal discectomy and remove the herniated part of the disc.

3. Laminoplasty

It is performed only on the cervical part of the spine (neck). This procedure involves the usage of a metal plate which is placed to bridge the gap in the spine created to provide space for the compressed spinal nerves.

4. Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

As an alternative to open spine surgery, minimally invasive decompression surgery is used. It is a faster and safer surgical procedure to treat compressed spinal nerves. The recovery period is also quite small for minimally invasive surgeries as compared to conventional open spine surgery. In this procedure, a small incision is made through which a guiding instrument is inserted into the body. The doctor reaches the point of surgery with the help of a video camera inserted inside the body and removes the bone spur causing compression with the help of sophisticated equipment.

In most cases, spine surgery is followed by a spinal fusion procedure to provide stability to the spine. When a part of the vertebra is removed, the overall structure of the spine gets disturbed. It can result in a condition known as adjacent segment syndrome. To avoid it or any other complications, doctors fuse the vertebrae to fill the gap created due to the surgery.

How much time does it take to recover after Spinal Decompression Surgery?

The severity of the condition and symptoms before the operation are different for every patient, and so is the recovery period. Most of the patients are discharged after 3 to 6 days of the surgery. It takes 4 to 6 weeks for the patient to reach a certain level of mobility. The complete rehabilitation after spine surgery takes even longer, 6 months to one and a half years. During the recovery period, it is recommended that you visit a physiotherapist regularly and follow a customized recovery plan chalked out for you.

Get treatment for Spinal Cord Compression in Los Angeles

Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery is a trusted name for spine treatments in Los Angeles. We have a team of expert doctors led by Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe who has been featured as the best neurosurgeon in Los Angeles in 2021 by findatopdoc.com. You can schedule an appointment by filling out the contact form or calling us at (213) 369-4583.

The cervical spine is the top area of the human spine. It consists of the first seven (C1 – C7) out of the total 33 vertebrae, separated by intervertebral discs. Any injury in this part causes pain around the neck region. However, not all kinds of neck pain necessarily mean that there is a cervical spine injury as the symptoms of such pain are quite different. An injury to the cervical spine is generally treated with cervical spine surgery. This article will cover both sides – symptoms, and treatments of cervical spine injury. In addition to this, you will also get to know about the rehabilitation process after the surgery. By the time you finish reading, you will be in a better position to understand if you are suffering from cervical spine injury and how you can go about treating it.

Visit Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery and see Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe: A top spine surgeon in Los Angeles. Schedule an appointment now!

Symptoms of Cervical Spine Injury

The following symptoms indicate that the neck pain one experiences is due to an injury or deformity in the Cervical Spine.

• Dull or sharp neck pain that radiates from the neck down to the arms, hands, and fingers. The pain is usually accompanied by numbness and tingling in the shoulder or arm.
• Like with any other spine injury, loss of bladder and bowel control, difficulty breathing, and impaired balance are also observed in people with a cervical spine injury.
• Pain that worsens when you bend forward or twist your neck
• Pain that worsens with coughing or sneezing
• Sensitivity to touch in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
• Tenderness and/or loss of range of motion in one or both arms and/or legs

Causes of Cervical Spine Injury

According to the National Library of Medicine, causes of Cervical Spine Injuries can be classified into two types; Traumatic and Nontraumatic.

Traumatic Injuries
Trauma is one of the most common causes of injury to the spinal cord. A traumatic injury occurs due to a motor accident, falling, sport-related injuries, etc. Acute cervical spine trauma can cause grave injuries to the muscles, ligaments, and spinal cord. In some cases, spine discs get ruptured or displaced causing radiating pain and tingling in the arms and shoulders.

Nontraumatic Injuries
Over time, spine discs get degenerated due to wear and tear. Such damage to the spinal discs is nontraumatic however, it can cause a great deal of pain. Non-Traumatic causes of cervical spine damage also include osteoporosis, arthritis, or inflammation of the spinal cord.

Diagnosing Cervical Spine Injury

There are different tests doctors use to diagnose spinal cord injuries:

• Sensory Examination – Ability to sense hot, cold, pressure, touch, and pain near the affected area.
• Motor Examination – This examination includes testing of a range of motion under no, little, and high resistance. The doctor grades the patient according to his/her situation.
• Reflex Examination – In these tests, doctors check how well the autonomic system of the body is behaving.
• Imaging Tests – After finding the symptoms of spinal injury, the doctor will have you go for scans like an X-ray or MRI. These imaging tests help confirm the injury to the spinal cord and spot the cause.

Treatments for Cervical Spine Injury

Depending upon the severity of the damage, patient’s age, overall health condition, preference, and some other factors, the doctor will recommend surgical or nonsurgical treatments.

Nonsurgical Treatments for Cervical Spine Injury

Most spine injuries, if not traumatic, can be treated with nonsurgical procedures. For example, neck pain due to cervical disc herniation can be cured with conservative treatments and surgery can be avoided. These methods include;

• To go on a brief bed rest
• Reducing physical activities that put stress on the cervical spine
• Physical therapy and massage
• Medication to reduce pain and inflammation
• Use of spinal braces or soft cervical collar to keep the spine in shape
• Exercises to improve the range of motion

Surgical Treatments for Cervical Spine Injury

If patients do not show any improvement after being given nonsurgical treatments, the doctors prepare them for surgery. Depending upon the specifics of each case, the doctors can utilize different surgical procedures for treatment. Nevertheless, whichever surgical method is used, the goals are the same;

• Relieving neck pain
• Stabilizing the spine
• Improving range of motion
• Correcting spine alignment
• Remove compression from the spinal cord or nerves

Generally, surgeons would use three types of procedures to fix cervical spine deformities;

1. Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Cervical discectomy can be performed using two approaches; Anterior and Posterior. Both approaches are quite similar except for the fact that in Anterior Discectomy, the surgeon approaches the cervical spine from the front i.e., throat, and in Posterior discectomy, an incision is made at the back of the neck. In both surgical procedures, herniated or degenerative discs are removed. The approach to be used is determined by the surgeon based on the condition of the case.
Once the damaged part of the disc is removed, it is followed by spinal fusion to stabilize the spine. The basic idea of spinal fusion is to fill the gap created as a result of disc removal. For spinal fusion, surgeons use some bone material known as a bone graft. This material serves as a support to the vertebrae.

2. Cervical Laminectomy

Laminectomy is different from discectomy in a way that it is performed when the back of the vertebrae is damaged. So, in a laminectomy procedure the bony part covering the spinal cord is removed, whereas, in discectomy, part of the herniated or degenerative disc is removed. Laminectomy is commonly used to treat bone spurs of the spine associated with arthritis. During the operation, the surgeon removes the lamina relieving the pressure from the spinal cord and nerves. It is also followed by a cervical spinal fusion surgery that fills the gap created due to the removal of bone and makes the spine stable.

3. Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery

In Cervical Disc Replacement surgery, unlike Spinal Fusion in which vertebrae are fused, doctors replace the damaged disc with an artificial one. No bone graft is used, instead, the surgeon puts a new disc in place of the old one. It is considered to be a better procedure than fusion surgery as it preserves the mobility and motion of the spine.

Risks and Complications Involved

Surgical spine treatments are to be carried out with extreme care and skill. According to research published by NIH, there are more than 10 risks associated with Cervical Spine Injury. These include; Adjacent Segment Disease, Leakage of Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), Infection, Dysphagia, and Hematoma. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a senior and expert neurosurgeon when it comes to getting invasive spine treatment. Discussed below are the details of some of the common risks involved in Cervical Spine Surgery;

Adjacent Segment Disease – In some cases of cervical spinal fusion surgery, patients can develop adjacent segment disease after the surgery. It is because in cervical fusion, two or more vertebrae are fused and this can influence the natural stability of the spine. As a result, discs adjacent to the fused vertebrae can be under greater stress to keep the spine together. This condition is known as adjacent segment disease. It can be normally treated with conservative procedures but in some cases, a second surgery might be needed to fix the problem.

Cervical Spine Infection – Mostly, infections occur at the surgical site within two to three days of the surgery. Infection is caused due to the bacteria that spreads to vertebrae from the blood. Experiencing chronic neck pain, fever, and dysphagia after the surgery are some common symptoms of post-surgical infection.

Hematoma – This is when blood accumulates in the tissues of the body and can be caused by bleeding within the spinal column or from any other injury on the spine. Hematomas can occur after any type of spinal surgery and are more likely to happen if there was any previous damage to the discs or nerves in your back before surgery.

Post-operative Care of Cervical Spine Surgery

Post-operative care of cervical spine surgery is essential to maintain the healing process and prevent complications. The surgical site should be kept clean, dry, and covered with a sterile dressing after surgery.

Rest – The patient should rest comfortably in the prone position until they can turn over and sit up without assistance.
Diet – They should drink plenty of water, eat nutritious meals and take pain medication according to their prescribed regimen.
If they have undergone a cervical fusion with hardware, then traction may be required for several weeks following surgery to help prevent contracture of the fused vertebrae.
Activity – Patients should be encouraged to sit up and start moving their necks slowly within a few days after surgery. This will help prevent stiffness in the neck muscles and reduce pain because it helps warm up the tissues around the area of treatment.

The most important thing is to follow all of the advice given by the medical staff. This will ensure that you get the best possible results from your operation. If there are any questions or concerns about your case, then you must speak to your surgeon about them as soon as possible so that they can advise on any further treatment required.

Recovery after Cervical Spine Surgery

Rehabilitation after a spine surgery requires great discipline in terms of staying physically active and following the doctor’s instructions. The goal of rehabilitation is to regain full strength in your neck muscles so that you can perform daily activities without pain.

• After spine surgery, you will need to take it easy for a few weeks or months. This is the time when your body heals itself and starts to recover from the effects of the surgery.
• Start with mild physical activities like walking and then slowly progress towards strenuous exercises.
• Once the incisions have healed, massage can be a great rehabilitation option after spine surgery
• We would also suggest seeing physical therapists for a comfortable recovery. They will put you on programs that include special exercises targeting the muscles around your neck.

See a Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles for Cervical Spine Surgery

Spine diseases are not to be taken lightly. You need only the best of the best spine surgeons for any problem related to your back.
If you happen to be in Los Angeles and suffering from any spine condition, you can visit Southern California Brain & Spine surgery. We have the reputation of being the best spine treatment medical facility in Los Angeles. Doctors and staff here provide dedicated care to patients suffering from spine and brain problems. You get specialized care with a holistic approach from diagnosis to recovery. Schedule your appointment by filling out the contact form or calling us at 213-369-4583.

Back pain is one of the most prevalent medical conditions in the United States. Despite being so common, most back pain treatments tend to be ineffective and thus fail to relieve the patient of pain. It is due to the fact that the human spine is a complex structure; treating back pain due to a spinal deformity entails careful diagnosis and appropriate remedial action.  This is exactly what we provide at Southern California Brain and Spine Surgery (SCBASS).

Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery is dedicated to providing the highest quality spine treatment in Los Angeles since 2015. Our team of highly trained neurosurgeons have helped hundreds of patients recover from spinal injuries and live healthier lives.

There are a number of factors that make Southern California Brain and Spine Surgery one of the best medical facilities for spine treatment in Los Angeles.

1. Experienced Neurosurgeon

First things first, a medical facility is as good as the quality of its healthcare providers. One can have the best equipment and a well-designed building but, at the end of the day, it all comes to how competent the doctors are.

Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe

Here at SCBASS, Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe is the leading neurosurgeon providing surgical treatments to patients suffering from spine and brain conditions. She always empathizes with the patients she treats. Her love for medicine developed at a very young age when she used to volunteer at local hospitals with her mother who was a pharmacist there. She has studied at some of the renowned medical schools in the US including Dartmouth Medical School and Harvard Medical School. You can read more about her education and experience on our website. 

Top Neurosurgeon in Los Angeles by Top Doctors

Dr. Moksha has been featured as the best neurosurgeon in Los Angeles for three consecutive years (2019-21) by findatopdoc.com. 

Affiliations

Dr. Moksha has an affiliation with some of the most esteemed global neurological associations like;

• Congress of Neurological Surgeons 
• Women in Neurosurgery
• American Association of Neurological Surgeons

2. State-of-the-art medical Facility and Equipment

A bad back is enough to make one’s life uncomfortable and the last thing one would want is to visit a medical facility that lacks modern medical equipment and relies on obsolete remedial procedures. However, that’s not the case at SCBASS. It is one of the most up-to-date neurological medical facilities you will find for spine treatment in Los Angeles.

• Doctors here treat the patients with the most advanced methods using the latest equipment. Whether you are recommended an open spine surgery or a minimally invasive one, you can fully rely on our surgeons for the best possible treatment. 
• The purpose-built building makes the overall ambiance of the facility very soothing and relaxing.
• The staff at SCBASS is extremely cautious of hygiene and spare no effort to keep the facility sanitized and aseptic.

3. Nursing Excellence

A smooth treatment and recovery rely heavily on pre and post-treatment care. This is where the role of the nursing staff comes into play. They are responsible for preparing the patients for treatment, assisting doctors during surgery, and helping patients recover comfortably after the surgery. 

• Our staff adheres to the industry best practices and complies with all the recommended guidelines to achieve excellence. 
• People who work for us are certified and practically experienced to cater to the needs of neurosurgical patients. They also attend training sessions frequently so the patients are treated with up-to-date procedures.

4. Conditions Treated

Chronic spinal pain or a throbbing headache might make you visit the nearest medical facility for timely treatment. However, it won’t be a pleasant situation to be told that you have a certain neurological condition that they don’t provide the treatment for. Now you stand there wondering, “Why did I come here in the first place?”

You can completely avoid such a scenario if you visit SCBASS in Los Angele. Over the years, we have tried to be the leading healthcare service provider in neurosurgery. Doctors working here provide medical treatment for several different neurological diseases. Following are some of the conditions we provide the treatment for;

• Back And Neck Pain
• Degenerative Spine (spondylosis And Spondylolisthesis)
• Arthritis
• Scoliosis
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Cauda Equina Syndrome
• Stroke and related conditions
• Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)
• Intracranial Stenosis
• Cerebrovascular Disease
• Spinal Arteriovenous Malformation
• Brachial Plexus Injury
• Postherpetic Neuralgia
• Brachial Neuritis
• Cervical, Thoracic, Or Lumbar Disc Herniation
• Huntington’s Disease
• Dystonia
• Intracranial Hypotension
• Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak
• Cerebrospinal Fluid Diverting Shunts

5. Let’s hear it from the Patients

While there are numerous reasons to visit southern california brain and spine surgery for your spine treatment, perhaps the biggest one is our satisfied clients. You can check patients’ reviews about SCBASS on all popular platforms like Yelp, Healthgrades, health.usnews, and many more. Moreover, you can also check online local social profiles for spine treatment in Los Angeles and read about patients’ experiences with SCBASS.

6. Not Just a Business

We operate with a patient-centered approach and prioritize patients’ wellness over everything. It ensures that a collaborative relationship is established among doctors, patients, and their families. Our system works in a way to align decisions with the preference and needs of our patients. Following are the principles we follow;

• Inform and educate patients – Patients are normally not completely aware of the medical condition they suffer from. Our doctors communicate with them and help them understand the situation better.
• Provide patients with physical comfort – It includes pain management and offering help to do routine activities after surgery.
• Give emotional support – Staff at SCBASS empathizes with patients to alleviate their anxiety and fear of the illness or remedial procedure.
• Get the family and friends involved – At all times, it is ensured that family and caregivers are permitted to be with the patient as much as possible.
• Provide Postoperative Care – Our doctors allow follow-up visits and stay in touch with patients during their recovery process after spine surgery.

How Can You Get to us?

If you are looking for spine treatment in Los Angeles, you can simply fill out a contact form available on our website. After receiving the details, someone from the office will reach out and let you know the schedule for your appointment. You can also call us at (213) 369-4583 and schedule your appointment right away.

Back pain can be extremely uncomfortable for anyone at any age. Routine activities like walking, standing, sleeping, and sitting feel like strenuous tasks for someone with back pain. If such a situation is due to a spinal injury like a slipped disc or a damaged vertebra, it leaves the patient with no choice but to undergo surgical treatments for pain relief. Patients expect to get normal and have their painless lives back after a spinal surgery however, getting surgical treatment is just a first step to complete rehabilitation from back pain. The quality of life after spine surgery depends a lot on how you approach the recovery process. In what follows, we will discuss what to expect and how you can sustain the quality of life after spine surgery.

You might also want to read: Road to Recovery from Spinal Fusion Surgery

Lifestyle Changes

The lifestyle change after spine surgery is not difficult, but it does require some adjustments. Changing the way you do routine tasks is the cornerstone of the recovery process.

Modifying Routine Activities

• The first thing that you need to do is learn how to walk again. If this is difficult for you, try using a walker or wheelchair until you get more used to walking on your own feet again. This will help speed up the process of regaining normal strength and mobility in your spine as well as improving your overall health and well-being. It will also improve your self-esteem because having control over one’s own body means much more than just being able to walk again.
• It is recommended to use support equipment for getting in and out of bed. These pieces of equipment will keep you safe from injuries by transferring any extra stress on your spine. Using ergonomic furniture is also a good idea to keep your spine straight.

Related readings: Home Remedies for Lower Back Pain 

Eating Habits 

• Getting a balanced diet can have a great impact on the rate of recovery after spine surgery. Eating nutritious food is extremely important as it will supply the body with all the essentials required for healing quickly as well as allow you to maintain a healthy weight. Having small meals 5 to 6 times a day instead of eating three big meals is also a good practice as it eases the digestion process. 
• Smoking and using alcohol can be a bad idea as they impede the healing process.
• Keep yourself hydrated by increasing your water intake. Drinking water not only helps with overall nutrition but also reduces the risk of constipation.

Keeping a Positive Attitude

The importance of keeping a positive attitude during recovery after spine surgery is often overlooked. Many patients view the process as one that will take months, or even years, to recover from. The reality is that most individuals can return to their normal day-to-day activities in only a few weeks.

If you want to stay active throughout your recovery period and keep yourself busy, then try some of these activities:

• Spending time with family & friends – This is a great way to divert one’s mind from an ailment. Talking to family and friends boosts morale and makes you feel that you are not alone.
• Go out and meet new people – Socializing is also an effective way to be more confident in life. When you meet new people, you learn from them and it helps you broaden your perspective on life. Try to join rehabilitation communities where you can meet people who are going through the same problems as you.

Post-surgery Risk Factors

Like any other surgery, spinal surgery also poses some risk factors that can make the recovery process uncomfortable. Following are some of the common and major risk factors that can occur after you have undergone spine surgery.

1. Adjacent Segment Syndrome

The spine works in quite an interesting way in which all the spinal discs come together to support body movement. For a spine to function best, the whole spine must be healthy. If a part of the spine is weaker or not functioning properly, the neighboring parts bear more stress and thus become more prone to injuries. This is what happens after you undergo a back surgery like spinal fusion. It puts extra stress on the parts near the area where surgery was performed. You can avoid it from happening by following these guidelines; 

• Give the required time to your wounds for healing.
• Ask your doctor how long you should be on bed rest.
• Seek the doctor’s approval before engaging in physical activities like walking and sitting.

2. Infection at Surgical Site

Developing an infection at the incision site is one of the most common complications after spine surgery. This can occur because of several factors, including:

• Infection due to a foreign object left in your incision by the surgeon. 
• Infection due to bacteria that have entered through open surgical wounds 
• Infection due to contamination from your body fluids

3. Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

One of the most common complaints by the patients is experiencing persistent back pain after spine surgery. A normal and short-term pain after surgery is expected and is quite normal. It can be managed using medications and therapies. However, if the patient experiences persistent chronic back pain even a month after the surgery, it can be a sign of an unsuccessful surgical procedure and leads to a condition known as failed back syndrome. This is where one should seek expert medical advice immediately. 

Get the Best Spine Treatment in Los Angeles

If you are in Los Angeles and looking for an experienced neurosurgeon for spinal treatment, you can visit us at Southern California Brain & Spine surgery. Here, Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe provides top-quality treatment to patients suffering from brain and spine diseases. The team at our medical facility provides undivided attention to the patients and makes the treatment as well as recovery extremely comfortable. You can call us at  (213) 369-4583 or fill out the contact form to schedule an appointment.

As with all kinds of back pain, diagnosing the cause of pain in thoracic spine can be a little tricky. Thoracic back pain is felt in the upper and middle parts of the spine. Reasons can vary from a minor sprain to a major vertebral fracture. In what follows, we will be explaining the causes of pain in thoracic spine and their possible treatments.

Where is the Thoracic Spine Located?

A human spine has 24 vertebrae in total. The thoracic region is the middle part of the spine and it is made up of 12 vertebrae labeled from T1 through T12. It is located at the back of the chest, just between the cervical and lumbar spine. 

Causes of Pain in Thoracic Spine

Research shows that the thoracic part of the spine is relatively safer than the cervical and lumbar as it bears less stress. This makes it the least vulnerable spinal area to injuries. Having said that, discussed below are some of the factors that can cause pain in thoracic spine.

1. Muscle Inflammation

One of the most common causes of pain in thoracic spine is muscle inflammation which is the result of overuse or strain on one’s spine. There are a lot of things that cause muscle inflammation including poor posture, weight lifting, carrying heavy backpacks regularly, sitting at a computer for long hours, etc. Muscle inflammation causes muscle spasms and pressure on surrounding structures such as ligaments, tendons, joints, and disks. As a result, the patient experiences pain, joint stiffness, and tenderness in the body.

2. Injuries

A sudden injury for example during a car accident can also damage the thoracic spine. Injuries can break one of the spinal discs or make them slip (a condition known as a herniated disc). This leads to extreme pain around the injured area. People who play combat sports are more prone to such injuries.

3. Wear and Tear

Over time, the human spine degenerates due to age-related wear and tear. Some factors can increase this process of degeneration for example family history, smoking, and Obesity. Degenerated discs cause back pain, numbness, tingling, and other similar problems.

4. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that is characterized by the weakening of the bones in a body. It can make the vertebrae fragile and soft, increasing the chances of spinal fractures. Osteoporosis itself is not painful but under severe conditions, it can lead to cracks in the bones resulting in pain.

5. Poor Posture

Poor posture is found to be one of the most important causes of pain in thoracic spine. Nowadays, people spend a lot of time working on their laptops which can cause structural damage to the spine if proper care is not taken.

Treatments of Thoracic Spinal Pain

The treatment for pain in thoracic spine varies depending on the cause and severity. In most cases, the first step is evaluating the patient and determining which type of pain he/she is experiencing. Then, the doctor decides on a treatment plan that helps in managing symptoms and preventing further injury. Following are some of the treatments given to treat pain in thoracic spine;

1. Physical Therapy

Physical therapies can be very handy in treating thoracic spinal pain as such pain is mostly due to a spasm or a muscle pull. Therapies can improve mobility by working on the limited range of motion. Consistent physical therapies considerably reduce the pain in thoracic spine and help patients rehabilitate from the condition. 

2. Medication

Medication is used if the pain in thoracic spine is due to a muscle spasm or other minor reasons. The most common type of medication used to treat pain in the thoracic spine is an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug). NSAID blocks certain chemicals from being released from body cells, which reduces inflammation and allows you to heal more quickly. To avoid the adverse effects, you are advised to only take the prescribed medicines.

3. Surgical Treatments

If the pain in thoracic spine is due to an injury or damage, your healthcare proivder will recommend you surgical treatments. The doctor will run diagnostic tests to look for a spinal injury and will come up with the appropriate surgical treatment accordingly.

4. Lifestyle Changes

Modifying your habits cannot only help you treat pain in thoracic spine but also prevent you from getting it in the first place. To help you out with your thoracic spinal pain, we recommend making the following changes. 

• Sleeping Position – Sleeping in an improper position is one of the major reasons for back pain. You can adjust your sleeping position with a little effort. Use a comfortable mattress and the right pillow for sleeping.
• Exercise – Stretching and exercises can also improve your posture and overall health. In case of thoracic spinal pain, you can engage in dedicated exercises to improve your condition
• Posture maintenance – Always use ergonomic furniture for your office work. Sitting in a comfortable chair allows appropriate alignment of the shoulders, spine, and hips.
• Other Activities – Bend your knees whenever you are to lift anything heavy. Similarly, avoid carrying heavy backpacks when you go on vacation trips. Last but not least, whatever you do, always remember that a straight spine keeps you fine.

Talk to a Neurosurgeon Now!

If you have been experiencing pain in thoracic spine and don’t know what is causing it, we would recommend you consult a specialist. Here at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe provides medical treatment to patients suffering from spinal diseases. She is an experienced neurosurgeon who has treated hundreds of patients over the years. You can read her patients’ reviews on Yelp and Healthgrades. To schedule an appointment, you can fill out the contact form or call us at (213) 369-4583. 

You might have been experiencing some pain in your back lately and are not sure how bad it is and what back pain treatment you need to go for. Treating back pain can be a little tricky as there could be various reasons for its occurrence. These reasons can be as minor as pulling a muscle to as serious as rupturing a spinal disc. Depending on the cause of back pain, there are different back pain treatments one can use.

In this article, we will educate you on some of the most effective back pain treatments available (both surgical and non-surgical) that would put you in a better position to decide which spine treatment is better for you.

Surgical Back Pain Treatments

Surgical back pain treatments involve the usage of invasive techniques to treat severe back-related issues. Medical professionals who perform these surgeries are normally Neurosurgeons with a specialty in spinal surgeries.

Who Qualifies for Surgical Spine Treatments?

In general, patients who have chronic severe pain or a serious disability from their back condition qualify for surgical treatment. The type of surgery you might need depends on what type of back problem you have, how severe your symptoms are, and how long they’ve been present. Following conditions are treated using surgical spine treatments;

• Herniated Disc
• Degenerative disc
• Spinal stenosis
• Scoliosis
• Spinal Deformities

Types of Surgical Spinal treatments

Choosing surgery as a back pain treatment option can be a major decision. In addition to the benefits and risks of the surgery, there are several factors that affect the decision to have surgery. Your surgeon will help you decide which treatment is best for your particular situation. Given below are some of the most common surgical back pain treatments;

Spinal Fusion Surgery

Spinal fusion surgery is a surgical procedure in which the bones of the spine (vertebrae) are moved together and joined with a bone graft. It is one of very few back pain treatments which have a high success ratio. In this procedure, a damaged disc is removed and replaced with bone graft material. The bone graft material is taken from a part of the patient’s body or the bone bank. It is then placed where the fusion is required. The new bone grows and joins the vertebrae together.

Benefits of spinal fusion surgery include:

• Minimizing pain and disability
• Preventing further injury to the spine
• Removing pressure on nerves and blood vessels in the back
• Reducing the risk of complications from further degeneration

Read in-depth: All You Need to Know About Spinal Fusion

After 2 to 3 days of the surgery, doctors will discharge you. However, complete recovery after spinal fusion surgery will take 3 to 6 months. During this time, you will visit physiotherapists regularly, have the prescribed medicine, and take all the precautionary measures to ensure a smooth recovery.

Lumbar Laminectomy

It is a surgical spine treatment that is used to treat conditions like spinal stenosis or narrowing of the spinal canal. Such a condition is normally caused by a herniated or bulging disc in the lower back area which puts pressure on the spinal nerves causing pain to the person. What the surgeon does is that he/she makes an incision near your lower back and removes the thin lamina to make space for the spinal nerves. It takes off the pressure from the nerves and relieves pain.

After Lumbar Laminectomy you can expect;

• Pressure relief from spinal nerves
• Improvement in the functionality of the lower back and legs
• Reduction in the pain
• Less numbness and tingling in the legs
• Recovery of strength

Read more: Lumbar Laminectomy Surgery: Procedure, Risks and Recovery

It can take a couple of months before you can go back to your normal routine. The recovery period requires special attention for a complete and comfortable rehabilitation. Patients are advised to regularly visit their doctors to ensure a smooth recovery.

Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

As the name suggests, artificial disc replacement surgery is the process of replacing a damaged or degenerated disc with an artificial one. The discs we have in our spine might get damaged due to an accident or wear and tear over the years. A damaged disc causes pain and extreme discomfort to a person. The surgeon makes an incision in the back and replaces the damaged disc with an artificial disc.
Artificial disc replacement is preferred over other surgeries because it allows the person to move, bends, twist, and flex his spine like before.

Read more: Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery: All You Need to Know!

The patient can resume desk work after one week of the surgery, however, to go back to the same life as before, it might take 3 months, give or take a few days. Physical therapies and regular visits to the doctor’s office are recommended.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Minimally invasive spine surgery involves the usage of endoscopic instruments for surgeries. In this method, the surgeon makes a very small incision through which an endoscopic instrument can pass into the body. Once the instrument is in, the rest of the surgery is performed with the help of a camera and micro tools it carries inside. The surgeon views the interior of the body on a computer screen.

Read more: Getting A Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery In Los Angeles

Minimally invasive spine treatments have many benefits;

• The recovery rate is faster
• The patient doesn’t have to go through a lot of pain
• A small incision means little
• Fewer complications
• Less postoperative care required

Nonsurgical Back Pain Treatments

At times, treatments for back pain do not require the patient to go through an invasive surgical procedure. If the back pain is due to a muscle pull, strain, or sprain, it is recommended that you try nonsurgical back pain treatments. However, you need to make sure that the pain is not due to a major spinal injury. You can do that by conducting diagnostic tests for spine injury. We have discussed some of the most effective nonsurgical back pain treatments below.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help strengthen muscles around the spine, improve flexibility and range of motion, and ease nerve pain. You can seek the help of a physical therapist for guidance. A physical therapist’s job is to help you get back on track. They’ll work with you to develop a routine that will improve your overall health and well-being. A physical therapist will also teach you exercises that can help control pain and prevent injury.

Other than physical therapies, you can also treat your back pain with the help of heat and ice therapies.

Heat & Ice Therapies

• Heat therapy is often used as a back pain treatment. This type of treatment involves applying heat to the sore or injured area to help it recover faster and reduce pain. Heat therapy can be used alone or in combination with other back pain treatments.
• Ice therapy is another treatment option that can be used to relieve symptoms of back pain. You can place ice packs directly on the painful area to reduce swelling and inflammation, as well as ease pain by relieving stiffness and pressure. Ice packs can be applied for 15 minutes at a time for 10 to 15 minutes on each side of the body every hour or every other hour as needed, depending on your specific needs and aches and pains.

Back Pain Treatment with Massage

Massage is another useful nonsurgical back pain treatment. It is extremely helpful to reduce inflammation in your back and relieve muscle tension; it also improves blood flow to the affected area of your back. If you have severe lower back pain or osteoarthritis, massage may be able to reduce some symptoms of those conditions as well. It is better to have a person help you with massage but no worries if you don’t have anyone available. Self-massage tools are easily available online.

Exercises for Back Pain Treatment

Regular exercise can help prevent or relieve chronic lower back pain by strengthening muscles around your spine and improving flexibility in your hips and shoulders. Exercises such as walking, swimming, biking, or dancing are all examples of low-impact activities you can perform at home without equipment or special shoes.

Many forms of yoga are also effective forms of exercise to improve your overall health while reducing symptoms of chronic back pain. There are different yoga positions you can try to target your back muscles. For example;

• Cat/Cow
• Planks
• Sphinx
• Bridges
• Lateral stretches
• Forward fold

Changing Lifestyle for Back Pain Treatment

Back pain is often due to poor posture and a lack of movement. This is one of the most overlooked causes of back pain. Before trying any other nonsurgical back pain treatments, it makes sense to make sure that you are doing the following things right;

• Maintain a good posture (standing up straight and keeping your shoulders back) and get some exercise throughout the day, even if it’s just walking around your office building.
• If you’re overweight, losing weight can help reduce pain and improve your overall health.
• Try to avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine — all of these substances can make your symptoms worse.
• Avoid sleeping in the same position all night long. If you sleep on your stomach, try sleeping on your side instead. You can also use a pillow between your legs or elevate them off the mattress to help alleviate any pressure on your lower back while sleeping.

Medication for Back Pain Treatment

Medication is also one of the nonsurgical back pain treatments that doctors often recommend. In case the back pain becomes unbearable, you can try some over-the-counter medicines. It is highly recommended that you use only the prescribed medication for the reason that self-medication can be dangerous when used to cure back pain. Generally, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce inflammation in your back and may help relieve some of the pain you feel from an injury or from chronic back pain. If NSAIDs don’t provide enough relief, you may want to try medications that have stronger anti-inflammatory effects such as COX-2 inhibitors or acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Deciding between Surgical and Nonsurgical Back Pain Treatments

Diagnosing the cause of back pain should precede the decision of choosing the suitable spine treatment. Surgical back pain treatments are preferred when the spine is damaged due to an injury that resulted in the deformation of spinal bones. In such a situation, there is no point in using nonsurgical back pain treatments as it will only worsen the situation by lingering. On the other hand, nonsurgical treatments are effective to cure mild back pain arising out of muscle pull and stress.

See an Expert for Back Pain Treatment

We hope this article helped you understand what surgical and nonsurgical treatments are and which treatment is preferred in a given situation. However, in order to reach the decision about choosing the right back pain treatment, it is vital that you consult a doctor.
Here at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, we have Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe who is one of the best spine surgeon in Los Angeles. You can read her patients’ reviews on Yelp and Healthgrades. In order schedule an appointment, fill out the contact form or call at (213) 369-4583.

The lower back is a complex system that supports all of your body’s movements. It consists of several bones, ligaments, and muscles that work together to support your spine and keep it in good alignment. If you have lower back pain, it can be difficult to know exactly what is causing it and how to treat it. You may have tried several over-the-counter pain relievers or even visited your doctor’s office only to be told that scans don’t show any signs of injury or damage to your back. In such a situation, you wonder if there are any home remedies for lower back pain you can try.

Fortunately, there are many home remedies for lower back pain that can help reduce discomfort and help you with your back healing.

Ice and Heat Therapy

Using heat or ice therapy is one of the most effective home remedies for lower back pain only if you know how to do it appropriately. Ice and heat therapies are given for the following lower back conditions;

• Back pain due to Injury
• Soreness in Back Muscles
• Stiff Back
• Back Spasm

Ice therapy

It is recommended to apply ice therapy first to reduce swelling and inflammation. Ice also creates a numbing effect that alleviates the pain and gives relief to the patient. Ice applications are usually done in the form of an ice pack wrapped in a towel or cloth, which you place directly onto your skin for 30 minutes at a time. You can also use an ice bag or ice pack made specifically for this purpose.

Heat Therapy

Once the inflammation and swelling are gone, now is the time to use heat. Heating the injured area can increase blood circulation and expedite the healing process. You can visit any drugstore to get therapeutic heating pads that contain either water-filled gel packs or electric heaters that are powered by battery packs. These pads typically cost less than $20 each and can be used on any part of your body except your head and face since they may burn these areas if left on too long.

Exercises for Lower Back Pain

In most cases of normal back pain, your spine is safe and the cause of pain is excessive stress on the back muscles. This causes strains and sprains that can be recovered with specific back exercises. Following are some of the exercises you can perform at home without anyone’s assistance to get rid of your back pain;

Bridges – Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Slowly raise your hips off the floor while keeping the abdominal muscle tight until your hips are aligned with your knees and shoulders. Hold the position for 15 to 25 seconds.

Chair Exercises – There are a lot of exercises you can do while sitting in a chair to help you with lower back pain.

1. Fold Forward – Sit in the chair and just pretend that you are tying your shoelaces. Keep your back straight while you do it.
2. Seated Twists – Sit in a chair with your thighs crossed over one another. Gently twist from left to right.
3. Knee to Chest – Sit in a chair with both feet placed on the floor. Grab your knee and move it as close to your chest as possible.

Other Exercises
A healthy spine lies in a healthy body. You can swim, walk, jog, run, or do any cardiovascular exercise to keep your body in shape. Engaging in physical activity automatically works your back and keeps the pain away. Just make sure you keep a proper form while performing any exercise.

Massage and Yoga

Despite being extremely effective, massage is one of the most overlooked home remedies for lower back pain. Massages can do wonders when it comes to treating back pain. It is possible to do a little back massage yourself, however, having someone help you can be a great advantage.

Yoga

Yoga is also one of the home remedies for lower back pain you can rely on. These exercises are designed to help you build strength and flexibility in your body, which will help improve your posture and reduce your chances of injury.

1. Side Plank
Lie on your side with your top leg stacked on top of your bottom leg. Flex your top arm and extend it toward the ceiling, stretching to touch your toes. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides and repeat for a minute total.

2. Cat/Cow

Place your hands on the floor under your shoulder and feet under your hips. For cow pose, drop your belly and look upwards while stretching your back. For cat pose, push your hands into the floor and try to see between your thighs while bending your torso.

3. Sphinx Pose
Lie down flat on your belly with hands resting on the floor making an angle of 90 degrees with your elbows. Slowly push the floor lifting your torso and head upwards while keeping your back straight. Do as many reps as you can in 2 minutes.

Posture Maintenance

Poor posture is observed to be one of the primary causes of back pain. If you don’t maintain your posture, the pain is never going to leave and there are chances of it developing into a serious back issue. Before trying the home remedies for lower back pain mentioned above, consider the following guidelines to fix your posture;

• Always sit upright with your shoulders relaxed and your back resting against the chair.
• Stand with your weight evenly distributed on both feet and your hips tucked in.
• Always bend your knees and not back when lifting anything off the ground.
• Use ergonomic furniture at your office for maximum comfort and support for your body.

Related readings: How to Prevent Lower Back Pain?

Home remedies for lower back pain might not be effective in all situations. Sometimes, the back pain is due to a spine injury that requires immediate medical treatment. In such a situation, it is better to see a doctor and get yourself checked so you can get timely treatment.

Consult Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe

If you are in Los Angeles, you can see Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery for your back pain. She is one of the best neurosurgeons in Los Angeles who has been treating patients with brain and spine related disorders for years. You can schedule an appointment by filling out the contact form or calling (213) 369-4583.

Spinal Fusion Surgery is the process of connecting two or more vertebrae of a spine. It is carried out to stabilize your spine or treat back issues like scoliosis. Since it’s major surgery, it has a lengthy recovery period that requires the patient to follow strict guidelines for complete rehabilitation. In what follows, we will walk you through the complete process of recovery from Spinal Fusion Surgery.

Learn about how Spinal Fusion is Carried out: All You Need to Know About Spinal Fusion

Road to Recovery from Spinal Fusion Surgery

Complete recovery from spinal fusion surgery means that the bone graft placed has fused into the spine and has become a part of it. It takes between 4 to 6 months to fully recover. The process can be divided into three stages based on the time following the surgery.

1st Stage of Recovery from Spinal Fusion Surgery

When the patient wakes up after the surgery, he/she experiences pain and drowsiness that lasts for a couple of days. You will also find it hard to sit and adjust your posture due to pain. The doctor encourages patients to walk after a couple of hours of surgery so they can see the signs of any complications.
The doctor will administer pain medication regularly to manage the pain. These medications are normally given with an injection into the arm or leg. Sometimes, patients are also given a PCA pump with which they can control the quantity of pain medication going into their bodies. Blood samples are also taken after regular intervals to make sure that the oxygen level in the blood is well-maintained. You can expect to be discharged from the hospital within 2-4 days of your surgery.

Early Mobilization

Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will be required to see a physiotherapist immediately to learn how you can perform routine activities like getting dressed, getting in and out of the bed, sleeping, sitting, etc. These activities must be performed according to the guidelines given by the physical therapist so as not to put any amount of stress on your spine while it heals.

Diet

Patients are not given anything to eat for the first 24 hours of the surgery. This period can be prolonged to 48 hours if needed. You will slowly switch from liquids to solid food when your stomach is ready.

Medications

The pain during the first few days is extremely intense and therefore the doctor will have you take high potency painkillers and sleeping pills.

2nd Stage of Recovery from Spinal Fusion Surgery

The initial period of recovery from Spinal Fusion entails the most care and precaution. A couple of weeks following your surgery, your doctor will allow you to walk without any aid but will restrict you from bending, lifting weights, and standing for a long time. For a smooth second stage of recovery from spinal fusion, you are recommended to take the following measures;

• Keep an eye for any infection that might arise in the incision site. If you suffer from fever, increase in pack pain, and redness at the incision site, contact your doctor immediately.
• Following two weeks of surgery, your surgeon will remove the stitches and staples. If the wound is properly healed, you will be allowed to take a full bath.
• You can also expect to switch from opioids to relatively safe and effective painkillers like Acetaminophen.

3rd Stage of Recovery from Spinal Fusion Surgery

After 3 months of the surgery, you can safely say that the incision site is healed. Now you can engage in exercises to regain your back strength. It is important at this stage that you do not overdo anything that can put stress on your back. Go by the following guidelines for a smooth recovery from spinal fusion surgery;

• Vigorous exercises are discouraged even after your wounds are recovered. You are advised to see a physical therapist who can teach you exercise you can perform without harming your back
• Therapists usually put patients on a controlled and progressive exercise program that lasts 2-3 months. You will need some help in the beginning but after a couple of weeks, you can do it yourself at home.
• Only after an MRI scan will the doctor declare you a completely recovered patient. After that, you can fully go back to a normal routine and perform all the activities just as a person with a healthy spine would do.

Which factors can affect the Rate of Recovery?

Things need to go smoothly for the recovery from Spinal Fusion Surgery. Regular checkups with the doctors help ensure that you are making progress. However, there are a few things that can impede your recovery;

• Lack of Care
  A careful attitude ensures smooth recovery from spinal fusion surgery. The incision site needs to be cleaned carefully to avoid any infection. Similarly, putting extra pressure on the spine before it is completely recovered can slow down the recovery process.
• Smoking
  There is extant literature available that shows a negative effect of smoking the rate of recovery from Spinal Fusion surgery.
• Bending and Twisting
  Bending and twisting pose a great threat to the recovery process as they can displace the screws that are placed to keep the spine in place.
• Staying Immobile
  This is one of the most common reasons for a slow rate of recovery from spinal fusion surgery. Patients are often seen to not follow the therapies prescribed to them which slows down the healing process.

Book an Appointment with Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe

Here at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, we provide top-quality healthcare services to patients suffering from spine and brain diseases. You can get in touch with our Neurosurgeon Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe who is a well-known spine surgeon in Los Angeles with years of experience. You can read her patients’ reviews on Yelp and Healthgrades. Book an appointment right away by filling out the contact form or calling (213) 369-4583.

Back pain is a common ailment that many of us have experienced at some point in our lives. In most cases, it can be effectively managed using a combination of over-the-counter or prescription medications, physical therapies such as chiropractic treatments, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and proper posture. However, there are instances where back pain is caused by an injury or degeneration of the spine, and in these cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address the underlying issue and provide relief. Since you have searched for Spinal Fusion Los Angeles, it means you also find yourself in the similar situation.

Spinal Fusion Los Angeles: See Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe

If you happen to be in Los Angeles and need a second opinion on getting Spinal Fusion surgery, you can see Dr. Ranasinghe at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery. We have been treating patients with spine disorders for a decade and are recognized as the most reliable spine care facility for Spinal Fusion in Los Angeles. You can schedule an appointment with our spine surgeon by filling out the contact form or giving us a call at (213) 369-4583.

Spinal Fusion is a surgical procedure that involves the fusion of two or more vertebrae in the spine. This procedure is usually recommended for individuals suffering from chronic back pain caused by conditions such as degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, herniated disc, spondylolisthesis and trauma-related injuries. The objective of the surgery is to provide pain relief and improve the stability of the spine by preventing movement between the fused vertebrae. The decision to proceed with the surgery is made after a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition including physical examination, imaging studies, and a review of the patient’s medical history.

Who Qualifies for Spinal Fusion Surgery?

People experiencing chronic back pain that last more than a month are normally considered for surgical treatments. However, your doctor will only recommend a Spinal Fusion surgery once he/she has diagnosed the source of pain. Diagnosis is conducted using scans like MRI and CT.
Given below are some of the common medical conditions that are treated with Spinal Fusion surgery;

• Degenerative Disc – Our spine has rubbery cushions (known as discs) in between the bones to safeguard us from external jerks and injuries. These discs can degenerate over time, however, an early degeneration can also happen due to an injury.
• Scoliosis – It refers to a condition in which a person’s spine is curved abnormally. It is more common in adolescents and teenagers.
• Stabilizing Spine – People who have an unstable spine due to any medical reason are recommended Spinal Fusion.

Types of Spinal Fusion

There are different kinds of Spinal Fusion surgeries that are performed by surgeons. Factors like the severity of the damage, location of damage, patient’s overall health condition, age, etc. are considered when deciding which method to follow. Generally, Spinal Fusion is classified into two types of procedures;

1. Anterior Fusion – In the Anterior approach, the surgeon reaches the infected area from the font. It means if the surgery is to be performed on the neck, the incision will be made in front of the neck (Cervical Fusion) and if the surgery is to be performed on the lower back, the incision is in the lower abdomen (Lumbar Fusion).
2. Posterior Fusion – If the doctor decides to approach the infected area directly from the back, it is referred to as posterior fusion.

Procedure

The patient is given anesthesia before the surgery to make the process less painful. The patient is also advised not to drink or eat anything 6-8 hours before the surgery. Given below is a brief procedure on how the surgery is carried out.

Incision

The surgeon will start the operation by making an incision to gain access to the damaged part. It can be done with any of the approaches mentioned above. The length of the incision for conventional spinal fusion surgery can vary depending on the number of vertebrae being fused together.

• For a single-level spinal fusion, the incision is typically smaller and can range from 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) in length.
• For a two-level spinal fusion, the incision can range from 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) in length.
• For a multi-level spinal fusion, the incision can range from 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in length.

It’s important to note that these measurements are approximate and the actual size of the incision can vary depending on the individual case, the surgeon and the type of surgery. Additionally, in some cases, the surgery may involve more than one incision, depending on the extent of the procedure.

Getting Bone Graft

All kinds of spinal fusion surgeries require some kind of bone material to make the fusion possible known as Bone Graft. The bone can be taken from any part of the body or the bone bank. In case it is decided that the bone will be taken from the patient’s body, the surgeon get it from the pelvic bone by making a small incision and then closing it afterward.

Bone Graft Fusion

The bone is then placed between the vertebrae where fusion is required. Generally, metal plates and rods are used to ensure that vertebrae keep in position while the bone heals. Sometimes, the doctor might also use some substances to expedite the bone growth and healing process.

Risks Involved in Spinal Fusion

Just like any other surgical procedure, Spinal Fusion also carries some risks that could lead to complications. Given below are some of the surgery risks that might occur due to a Spinal Fusion surgery.

• Excessive Bleeding – Minor bleeding is common in surgical procedures. However, If it is a multilevel fusion surgery, there are chances of occurrence of excessive bleeding. Damage to a major blood vessel can also cause excessive blood loss.
• Infection – Soon after the surgery is over, the doctor will give you antibiotics to prevent any infection. However, in some cases, an infection might develop near the incision that can go deeper if left untreated
• Failure to eliminate Pain – It happens when Spinal Fusion surgery does not go right. It fails to eliminate the pain leaving the patient to go through another surgical procedure.
• Dural Damage – Dura is the outermost layer of the three layers that protect the brain and spine. If damage occurs to Dura during surgery, it can cause spinal fluid to leak. Subsequent surgeries are required to repair it.
• Bone Grafting going Wrong – There are chances that the bone used for fusion does not heal and thus fails to fuse the vertebrae. Moreover, if the material that is to be used for the bone graft catches bacteria, the graft fails.

Post-operative Care

The success of Spinal Fusion surgery highly depends upon post-operative care. Following are some of the guidelines to be followed to ensure that the healing period goes right;

• Regular Check-ups – Seeing your doctor regularly is very important to identify any potential complications as early as possible.
• Exercise – Do the exercises recommended by a physiotherapist for a smooth recovery from surgery.
• Incision Care – Keep the incision dry for at least two days after the surgery. Do not cover it unless advised by the doctor. Be careful while bathing, sleeping, and moving around to not to put stress on your back.
• Medication – Only take the prescribed medication by your doctor during the healing process. The doctor will recommend some painkillers to relieve pain and antibiotics to safeguard you from infections.

You can read our in-depth article on recovery after Spinal Fusion surgery here: Road to recovery from spinal fusion

Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion

Spinal fusion can also be performed using minimally invasive techniques, which involve making smaller incisions and using specialized instruments to access the spine. In minimally invasive spinal fusion, the surgeon uses a combination of these techniques to access the spine and perform the procedure.

• Percutaneous techniques: These techniques involve making small incisions and using specialized instruments to access the spine through the skin. This can include the use of special tubes called cannulas to guide the instruments and allow the surgeon to access the spine without having to make a large incision.

• Endoscopic techniques: These techniques involve using a small camera called an endoscope to view the spine through a small incision. The surgeon can then use specialized instruments to access the spine and perform the fusion.

• Microscopic techniques: Thes techniques involve using a microscope to view the spine and perform the surgery. This allows for a more precise and delicate procedure.

• Robotic techniques: Thes techniques involve the use of robotic arms guided by a surgeon to perform the fusion.

Minimally invasive techniques have many potential benefits compared to traditional open surgery, such as smaller incisions, less blood loss, and a faster recovery time. However, not all surgeries can be carried out using minimally invasive techniques, and the surgeon will carefully evaluate each individual case to determine the best approach.

Consult Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe for Spinal Fusion Surgery

If you happen to be in Los Angeles and need a second opinion on getting Spinal Fusion surgery, you can see Dr. Ranasinghe at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery. We have been treating patients with spine disorders for a decade and are recognized as the most reliable spine care facility in Los Angeles. You can schedule an appointment with our spine surgeon by filling out the contact form or giving us a call at (213) 369-4583.

FAQs on Spinal Fusion Surgery

When can I travel after Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Typically, patients are able to travel again after their second follow-up appointment, which is usually scheduled 6-8 weeks post-surgery. However, individuals who have encountered any complications during this period may be advised to delay travel. Additionally, it’s important to note that heavy lifting and carrying heavy bags should be avoided as it may cause discomfort or strain on the affected area.

How long is the recovery time?

Recovery time after spinal fusion surgery can vary depending on the individual and the specific type of surgery that was performed. It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and any physical therapy or rehabilitation plans. Typically, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least six weeks after surgery. It’s common to need a few months before resuming normal activities.

Will I be in pain after the surgery?

Some pain and discomfort is normal after spinal fusion surgery, and your surgeon will advise you how you can manage it. Mostly, it involves taking over-the-counter pain-killers, physical therapies, and light exercises.

Why do I feel pain in my leg and buttock after spinal fusion surgery?

To experience some pain in lower limbs is quite normal after spinal fusion surgery. It should not be as severe as it was before the surgery and must go away within 3-4 weeks. If that’s not the case, it is recommended that you see your doctor and get examined.