“Spinal Decompression Alternative"
By Tommy Hoffman, Licensed Physical Therapist
Ever wonder why neurosurgeons tend to push spinal decompression surgery for back pain? Well I have, and so should you as you are considering such a surgery. I liken the scenario of a car salesman to that of a spinal surgeon. They prey on people with back pain due to conditions like a bulging disc or slipped disc, and sell them on a wonderful alternative to their pain, Spinal Decompression.
What is Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression surgery usually refers to a laminectomy. The procedure is performed in an effort to increase the size of the spinal canal and reduce pressure on existing nerve roots.
Spinal decompression is a serious surgical intervention and should not be taken lightly. Do your research and do not rush to make a decision that can impact your life.
Considering Spinal Decompression?
Do you know that something like 1 in 5 back surgeries fail? Just think about that for awhile. Are you a lucky person? How do you feel about those kinds of odds? I sure don’t like them, and neither should you. Not without getting at least three more opinions from different surgeons as to whether or not spinal decompression is for you.
Spinal decompression surgery may cause complications such as:
1. Infections due to spinal decompression.
2. Nerve damage due to spinal decompression.
3. Blod clots due to spinal decompression.
4. Potential adverse reaction to anesthesia during surgery.
I know there are individuals who do indeed need surgical intervention to include those like spinal decompression. But how many people out there put too much trust in there surgeon’s decision to “operate”. Sure there clinical skills are more than adequate, but what about overall motive? After all, they tend to make thousands on a spinal decompression surgery.
We know your doctor is a healthcare provider. High up on the food chain, and also consider that he/she is a business person too. They own a practice and have overhead just like any other business. They have a family and kids to feed (and they eat well, trust me). So in other words, they are in the business to make money, a lot of money, your money. Make no mistake, spinal decompression is not free.
Treatments Beyond Spinal Decompression
Like many other conditions, you have other treatment options besides spinal decompression. Consider the alternatives to spinal decompression surgery like epidural injections, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture. Turn over each and every stone before committing to spinal decompression surgery. It should always be your last resort for treatment of your back pain.
It is always best to contact a qualified healthcare professional for the proper diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
Good Luck,
Tommy Hoffman, P.T.Tommy Hoffman
