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Having back surgery involves a lot less than it used to. In the last ten years, advances in technology, diagnosis and anesthesia have improved to the point where a patient can go home the very same day.
Minimally invasive surgical techniques are making all of this possible, says Neurosurgeon John Steck, MD of Culicchia Neurological Clinic. "We now have improved technology that allows us to operate through smaller incisions with better diagnostic accuracy to pinpoint the source of pain in the spine. Anesthesia can also be administered so that the patient can recover in the hospital after a few hours then go home," he says.
As always, surgery is the last resort after conservative treatments fail, Steck insists. It's always better to try and treat the problem conservatively then work to strengthen the spine through rehab and physical therapy.
When surgery is required, Dr. Steck says almost all disc herniations can be treated on an outpatient basis.
WHY IS THAT A GOOD THING?
"It's always better to get people out of the hospital and back home," Dr. Steck says. "They can start rehab or physical therapy at home. It means quicker recovery times."
To avoid back pain, Dr. Steck says two tips are particularly important:
• Don't smoke. Smoking decreases the blood supply to the affected disc. Research shows that smoking worsens disc degeneration.
• Exercise regularly. It's better to get into a fitness routine that supports core muscles-abdomen, legs and back. Exercise 3-4 times throughout the week rather than strictly on the weekend.
Last date this page was modified 12/07/08.
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