The Risks of Spinal Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion surgery is a common procedure recommended to patients with spinal fractures, degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, and other spine conditions. While this treatment can help some patients find relief from their condition, it does come with risks. Spinal fusions involve navigating delicate nerve structures, such as the spinal cord and nerve roots. If one of these structures is damaged during surgery, it can result in lasting nerve damage and pain that manifests as tingling, numbness, or weakness. Additionally, spinal fusions come with the risk of failed fusion – which occurs when the bones do not properly fuse.
Patients need to understand the risks of surgery when considering a spinal fusion. It is estimated that roughly 20% of spinal fusions are unsuccessful. Finding an experienced doctor is important to ensure confidence in your surgery.
BEST Health System is a modern ambulatory center offering advanced care to patients suffering from chronic pain. If you recently underwent spinal fusion surgery but continue to feel discomfort, keep reading.
Why Am I Experiencing Pain After My Spinal Fusion?
Pain after a spinal fusion procedure is a common experience as the body goes through a significant amount of trauma during the surgery. The incisions made to access the spine, the manipulation of nerves and tissues, and the insertion of screws and rods all contribute to post-operative discomfort.
Additionally, the process of bone grafting and fusion itself can cause pain as it requires time for new bone to form and stabilize. It is also not uncommon for patients to experience muscle spasms in response to the changes in their spine alignment post-surgery. While some level of pain is expected during the recovery period, it is important to communicate any excessive or debilitating pain with your healthcare provider as they may need to adjust your medication or recommend physical therapy to aid in your healing process.
Finding Relief After a Failed Spinal Fusion
If you continue to experience significant discomfort months after your spinal fusion, you might have failed back surgery syndrome. This refers to patients who underwent spine surgery and were not able to achieve relief. Monitoring your symptoms and keeping your doctor informed is integral to eventually finding relief.
Patients with failed back surgery syndrome often experience reduced mobility, aching back pain, radiating or shooting pain, and weakness. Treatment for these symptoms typically begins with various conservative therapies including physical therapy, pain medications, or injections. If these nonsurgical approaches are ineffective, patients may consider surgical intervention.
Treatment with BEST Health System
Spinal cord stimulation is a modern treatment option for patients suffering from failed back surgery syndrome. If you recently underwent a spinal fusion and do not experience relief months later, consider finding treatment with the professionals at BEST Health System.
BEST Health System offers spinal cord stimulation to those suffering from chronic pain. This is a modern, minimally-invasive, and FDA-approved surgery that involves a small implanted device that sends tiny electric impulses to mask pain signals and minimize discomfort. If you are seeking meaningful relief from your chronic pain, connect with the professionals at BEST Health System today.
