Understanding the Role of an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon in Treating Back Pain.

Back pain can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of your life, from work to leisure activities. It can be frustrating and challenging to find relief. There are a number of health care providers who try to help patients with back pain. We include orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists, pain management physicians, chiropractors, physical therapists, and more. What is the role of an orthopedic spine surgeon in treating back pain? Orthopedic spine surgeons are highly specialized physicians who focus on diagnosing and treating structural or mechanical conditions of the spine, Orthopedic physicians have extensive training and experience in surgical and non-surgical treatment options, and we work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans. In this article, we'll explore the various ways in which an orthopedic spine surgeon can help.

Common Causes of Back Pain

The road to treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury (acute trauma or repetitive use injury), and aging. Muscle strain, gluteal tendinitis, lumbar facet osteoarthritis, sacroiliac dysfunction, and even hip arthritis are some of the most common causes of uncomplicated back pain. These conditions may or may not be related to structural changes in the spine and imaging including X-rays and MRI may be normal. Another common cause of back pain is inflammatory arthritis. Autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease are common culprits. Another set of conditions that can cause back pain are stress, anxiety or depression. Back pain is the new stress ulcer. In other cases, back pain may be caused by more serious conditions like tumors or infections. With all the potential causes of back pain, it can be hard to figure out what is wrong.

One of the our best tools for screening for serious conditions is the mnemonic TUNA FISH:

• Trauma

• Unexplained weight loss

• Neurologic symptoms, night sweats

• Age over 50

• Fever

• Immunocompromised, IV drug use

• Steroid Use

• History of Cancer

When to See an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

If you're experiencing back pain that is severe or long-lasting, it's always a good idea to consult with an orthopedic spine surgeon.

Diagnostic Tools Used by Orthopedic Spine Surgeons

Orthopedic spine surgeons use a variety of diagnostic tools to determine the cause of your back pain. The most important tool is taking a good history and performing a comprehensive physical exam. X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can help screen for structural issues and confirm or refute potential diagnoses during a patient’s work-up. Once a workable diagnosis is made, your orthopedic spine surgeon can recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.

Treatment Options for Back Pain

Orthopedic spine surgeons have a variety of treatment options available to help alleviate your back pain. In many cases, conservative therapies like physical therapy, non-opioid medications, and lifestyle changes can be effective in treating back pain. Anti-inflammatory medications decrease inflammation. Alternatives to traditional medications include anti-inflammatory foods. Think mustard, blueberries, and turmeric. Physical therapy and home exercise can increase mobility and conditioning, limiting pain related to deconditioning, diminished strength with aging, and overuse injury. For more persistent cases of back pain, orthopedic spine surgeons may recommend invasive treatment options like spinal injections or surgery. Spinal injections can help alleviate pain and inflammation by delivering local anesthetic and steroid medication directly to an affected area in the spine. Surgery may be recommended if conservative treatment fails and a clearly defined structural problem is causing pain and dysfunction or if there is a threat to neurologic function.

Surgical Techniques Used by Orthopedic Spine Surgeons

Orthopedic spine surgeons use a variety of surgical techniques to treat spinal conditions. These may include minimally invasive surgeries, which use smaller incisions and specialized instruments to minimize damage to surrounding tissue. Minimally invasive surgeries can be effective in treating conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, slipped vertebrae, and even scoliosis.

Sometimes, orthopedic spine surgeons may recommend more extensive surgeries. Many confusing terms are used by spine surgeons as short-hand. In general surgery is used to accomplish one or more goals:

• Remove pressure from compressed neural structure

• Re-align the spine

• Stabilize the spine

• Fuse or weld bones together if continued motion will not allow a spinal to remain stable over time

Risks and Complications of Spine Surgery

Like all surgeries, spine surgery carries risks of potential complications. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and/or complications related to anesthesia. Additionally, spine surgery may not be effective in all cases, and some patients may experience ongoing back pain even after surgery.

It's important to discuss the risks and potential complications of spine surgery with your orthopedic spine surgeon before undergoing any procedures.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After spine surgery, it's important to follow your orthopedic spine surgeon's instructions for recovery and rehabilitation. This may or may not include physical therapy. Oftentimes, patients just need to walk for exercise. Your orthopedic spine surgeon may recommend lifestyle changes like weight loss or smoking cessation to help improve your overall health and reduce the risk of complications.

Choosing an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

When choosing an orthopedic spine surgeon, pick a surgeon with whom you can build a strong relationship. People have different communication styles and personalities. Find a match that works for you. It’s never wrong to get a second opinion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthopedic Spine Surgery

Q: Is spine surgery the only treatment option for back pain?

A: No, it’s most often the last. Iin many cases, conservative therapies like oral medication and physical therapy are effective in treating back pain.

Q: How long does it take to recover from spine surgery?

A: Recovery time can vary depending on the type of surgery and individual factors like age and overall health. Your orthopedic spine surgeon can give you a better idea of what to expect. In general, it takes the body about 3 months to heal from an injury.

Q: Will I be able to return to normal activities after spine surgery?

A: In most cases, yes.

Conclusion

Back pain can be frustrating and debilitating. Thankfully, back pain is typically self-limited and it typically responds well to conservative treatments. Orthopedic spine surgeons stand ready and willing to guide treatment and to help identify and manage more concerning issues which unfortunately do sometimes occur.

Best regards,

Dr. B

Orthopedic Surgeon

Bristol Health

Disclaimer: No content on this site should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.