Back pain is incredibly common, affecting approximately 80% of people at some point in their lifetime. But while back pain is just an annoyance or inconvenience for some, it can be a more significant issue for others.

In fact, back pain is the most common cause of job-related disability and a top cause of missed workdays among Americans. Back pain and spinal issues can be intense enough to disrupt normal daily activities, negatively impacting quality of life and productivity.

While in many cases back pain can be alleviated with minor treatment options, including at-home care, over-the-counter medications, or prescriptions, that isn’t always the case. Sometimes anatomical issues or other underlying causes of pain require surgical intervention.

What is Orthopedic Spine Surgery

Orthopedic spine surgery is a specialized branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating problems of the spine, such as injuries, degenerative conditions, and deformities. An orthopedic spine surgeon is a trained medical professional who uses both surgical and non-surgical methods to help patients with issues affecting the spine. The goal is to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from spine-related conditions.

Common Spine Conditions Treated by Orthopedic Surgeons:

• Herniated or Bulging Discs
• Chronic Back and Neck Pain
• Spinal Stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebrae)
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Spinal Fractures
• Spinal Deformities (such as scoliosis)
• Spinal Tumors or Infections
• Spinal Cord Injury and Traumatic Fractures

Surgical Options for Spine Conditions

In some cases, when conservative treatments fail to provide relief, orthopedic spine surgery may be necessary. An orthopedic spine surgeon will work with the patient to determine the most appropriate surgical approach based on their condition.

Types of Spine Surgery:

1. Discectomy
2. Laminectomy
3. Spinal Fusion
4. Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty
5. Foraminotomy

What to Expect After Orthopedic Spine Surgery

After undergoing orthopedic spine surgery, patients can expect a period of recovery and rehabilitation. The process will depend on the type of surgery performed, but here are some general expectations:

1. Hospital Stay

Many spine surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures or require just a short hospital stay (1-2 days). More extensive surgeries like spinal fusion may require a longer stay.

2. Pain Management

Pain is a common experience after spine surgery, but it can be managed with medications, including opioids (for short-term use), as well as over-the-counter pain relievers.

3. Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

Non-Surgical Care for Spine Problems

Not every spine issue requires surgery. In many cases, orthopedic spine surgeons begin treatment with non-surgical approaches aimed at relieving pain and improving function. Some of the most common non-surgical treatment options include:

• Physical Therapy
• Medications
• Epidural Steroid Injections
• Lifestyle Modifications

Most patients are encouraged to start physical therapy within weeks after surgery to regain strength, improve mobility, and prevent complications.

Orthopedic spine surgery can provide relief for individuals suffering from chronic spine conditions or injuries. While many patients find significant relief through non-surgical treatments, surgery may be the best option when conservative measures fail. Whether you are considering surgery or seeking non-surgical treatments, an orthopedic spine surgeon can guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the care you need for a healthier, more active life.