DR. WAKKMAN

Chronic back pain is one of the most common reasons patients consult a neurosurgeon. However, surgery is rarely the first step. In over 80% of cases, physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments are highly effective.

When is Surgery Indicated?

Spine surgery is usually recommended when conservative treatments fail to provide relief and there is evidence of progressive nerve damage. Common surgical conditions include:

• Herniated Discs: When the soft gel inside a spinal disc leaks out and severely compresses a nerve root.
• Spinal Stenosis: The narrowing of the spinal canal, placing pressure on the spinal cord and causing numbness or pain when walking.
• Spondylolisthesis: A spinal vertebra slips forward over another, causing instability and severe chronic pain.

Neurological Red Flags

If you experience any of the following symptoms, surgery may be urgently necessary to prevent permanent paralysis:

• Loss of bowel or bladder control (Cauda Equina Syndrome).
• Progressive weakness in the legs or feet (e.g., foot drop).
• Inability to stand or walk due to severe shooting pain.