Why You Should Try Conservative Treatment Before Back Surgery

Back pain is something most people have or will experience to a certain degree in their life. It is also the number one cause of disability worldwide and is a huge cause for a decrease in someones activity level.

Back Pain is very frustrating to experience due to how much it can affect what used to be your normal daily routine. Back pain is probably one of the most common conditions we treat here at Align Therapy.

What is Conservative treatment for back pain? 

 

Many people don’t know that there are other options other than surgery to get rid of back pain. That is why I believe people wait years suffering until they seek professional help.

Conservative treatment such as physical therapy,  aims to strengthen and support the structures surrounding your spine and its related joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons as well as teach proper motor control or movement patterns.

Without proper muscle control and stability the spine will have increased shearing, torque or compression eventually leading to such things as vertebral degeneration, herniated discs, or other structural issues that may lead to back pain.

This is important  in helping people with chronic pain to develop the trunk strength necessary to perform activities such as doing laundry, vacuuming, being able to walk for longer periods of time with no pain, or even playing with their kids.

Surgery is not a guarantee that you will be free of back pain. Many people after surgery end up trading their original pain for a different kind of pain.

 

When is Back Surgery Appropriate?

I am not against back surgery. There are definitely cases in which back surgery is definitely the most appropriate method to treat the pain and loss of function. Back surgery might be the right option if conservative treatments have not worked and your back pain continues to be disabling.

Back surgery is definitely appropriate if you are having one of the following problems

  • Lost bladder or bowel control because of a problem with the nerves in your back
  • A spinal infection, or a high fever with back pain — this can be a sign of a spinal infection
  • A broken bone in your back
  • A tumor on your spinal cord

Conclusion

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to getting rid of low back pain. It is important to not get discouraged and not let your back pain get worse.

If you have questions about Back Pain, please don’t hesitate to contact us to see how we can help you achieve your goals!  You can call (801)980-0860 or email info@aligntherapyutah.com.

Charlene Nordhoff, Physical Therapist Assistant

Who We Help At Align Therapy

At Align Therapy, we understand that every single person’s problem is unique, which is why our first step is to get a deep understanding of what is happening to your body, and how it is effecting your life so we can create a plan that focuses on YOU and your goals.
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David Butler PT DPT
AUTHOR

David Butler

Align Therapy

"We help people with scoliosis and spine problems avoid surgery, reduce pain, and improve posture even if you have been told to wait and see if it gets worse."
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