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Looking for a "Quick Fix" In
our fast-paced society, we often are impatient and look for the "quick
fix" solution - a pill to take, a pop of the back or surgery
- to take care of the problem. However, spine related disorders
are akin to cardiac conditions in that both are often chronic
diseases requiring considerable patient motivation as well as
physician guidance and treatment for an optimal outcome. While
a cardiac stent or bypass may alleviate chest pain and hear damage,
patient are often called up to reduce weight and blood pressure,
to exercise and to lower their cholesterol to control hear disease.
Cardiac stenting or bypass without lifestyle changes lead to
a less optimal result.
Spine Care Requires a Lifestyle Commitment Similarly,
spine care requires a lifestyle commitment. While a spinal
injection, procedure or surgery can be beneficial, not maintaining
spinal muscle strength and flexibility, or use of good body mechanics
can increase your likelihood of future problems. It is well-known
that one spinal surgery increases your likelihood of having
a second spinal surgery. A single disc herniation will have a five
to 15 percent risk of re-herniation. A spinal fusion at one level
will result in a 40 percent risk for another surgery in ten years.
Improving spinal muscle strength and flexibility will allow you
to improve your function for daily and recreational activities.
As your endurance improves your pain level can also improve. Increased
muscle strength can better support an area of the spine that is
injured or developing degenerative changes. What to Expect at Your Appointment Your physician will assess your condition, order and review needed studies, recommend medications, physical therapy, exercise, spinal injections, and when necessary suggest surgery to find an optimal outcome for you. Treatment will often require a comprehensive approach encompassing many of these elements including the development of and following an independent exercise program. Adhering to your specific program developed in physical therapy will allow you to actively control and improve your spinal health and function over the long term.
Medical Disclaimer This information and advice published or made available through the SPINEABILENE web site is not intended to replace the services of a physician, nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. For the treatment or diagnosis of any medical condition, consultation with a licensed health care professional is strongly recommended.
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