Sunday, December 21, 2014

Should i undergo back surgery?



I have degenerative lumbar spine disease and my surgeon says I should undergo back surgery. What do you think?

Degeneration of the spine is common problem in society. The degeneration leads to narrowing of the spinal canal and impingement of nerve(s). For many years, surgeons have been performing various type of back surgery procedure to relieve the nerve impingement. So far data from most clinical trials show that the results of back surgery are marginal at best.  In fact the most common theme is that it does not work. Most people who undergo back surgery are in a worse shape afterwards. My best advice is that before you decide to undergo back surgery, get a referral to a reputable surgeon. And then ask patients about the surgeon’s results. The majority of back surgeons have mediocre surgical skills (but know how to talk big)- meaning that they can charm you with BS but can also mess you up for life. Best advice, stick to your pain pills and physical therapy. Surgery on the back is for suckers who are unable to judge CRAPPY healthcare professionals and have money to waste.

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