Is Spine Surgery Safe? Here’s What You Need to Know

Back pain is one of the most common health concerns worldwide. Studies suggest that nearly 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives. For some, the pain is short-lived, but for others, it becomes persistent, severely affecting quality of life. When medications, rest, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes fail to provide relief, spine surgery might be the only option recommended by doctors. For many patients, the very thought of surgery around the spinal cord creates fear and anxiety. Patients often ask: Is spine surgery really safe? Is it painful?” However, you can be rest assured, you are in safe hands. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital is reputed as one of the best spine surgery hospital in Mumbai and offers revolutionary, efficient, and safe surgical options.

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What is a Spinal Surgery?

Spinal surgery is a specialized surgery to correct issues of the spine, be it disc-related, vertebrae-related, or nerve-related. It can be done to alleviate pain, improve mobility, or avoid further damage when non-surgical treatments fail.

Some of the most common conditions for which spine surgery can be performed include:

• Herniated discs compressing nerves
• Spinal stenosis (spinal canal narrowing)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spinal fractures caused by trauma or osteoporosis
• Scoliosis and posture, and functional deformities

Who Needs Spine Surgery?

Not all back pain patients need surgery. Most conditions, in fact, do respond to non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injection. Nevertheless, surgery can be suggested if:

• Pain continues after months of conservative management
• Nerve compression results in numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder/bowel function
• Structural deformities pose long-term mobility issues
• Injuries like fractures compromise spinal stability

Your doctor will carefully balance the risks and benefits prior to recommending surgery.

Understanding Spine Surgery

Modern spine surgery has come a long way. Minimally invasive techniques, advanced imaging, and robotic-assisted procedures have significantly improved safety and recovery outcomes. Patients undergoing surgery today often experience:

• Smaller incisions
• Reduced blood loss
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster rehabilitation

These advancements have positioned India as a destination for quality spine care, with several centres recognized among the best spine surgery hospitals in India.

Benefits of Spine Surgery

When performed for the right reasons, spine surgery can be life-changing. Some key benefits include:

• It can provide pain relief making your daily life comfortable.
• It improves the patient’s mobility.
• Reduced pain helps give patients a better quality of life.
• Timely intervention can prevent worsening the condition.
• It helps patients stay active.
• Many patients no longer require long-term painkillers after surgery.

Risks of Spine Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, spine surgery carries risks. Understanding them helps patients make informed decisions. Potential complications include:

• Infection during or after a surgery
• Nerve damage leading to numbness or weakness
• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
• Implant or hardware issues
• Persistent pain despite surgery
• Rare complications like dural tears or lung problems

Medical statistics suggest that severe complications such as paralysis are extremely rare. According to one large study, the mortality rate for lumbar spine surgery was only 0.13% a reminder that while no surgery is risk-free, spine surgery today is much safer than most people believe due to advances in the medical world.

Is Spine Surgery Really That Risky?

This misconception has been going on for years. Just like any other medical surgery, this surgery also has inherent risks. However, the likelihood of catastrophic complications in spine surgery is very low. Here are some key factors that influence the success and safety of a spine surgery:

• The patient’s health at the time of the surgery
• The specific condition being treated
• Any existing health conditions
• The expertise of the surgeon
• Post-operative care and rehabilitation

Patients should openly discuss their concerns with their doctor to understand both the potential benefits and risks in their unique case.

While risks exist, they are generally low when the surgery is performed by an experienced specialist at a reputable spine surgery hospital equipped with advanced technology and infrastructure. For those considering surgery, a detailed conversation with a spine specialist can help set realistic expectations and address individual queries.

Spine Surgery at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Are you or someone you know suffering from a spine disorder? You must seek specialist medical advice at the earliest to understand your situation and seek appropriate care. Do not delay in seeking medical care, as it can worsen the situation. At our Centre for Bone & Joint,  spine surgeries are performed using advanced minimally invasive techniques that achieve the same outcomes as traditional open surgery but with a less traumatic approach. Through small incisions, specialized instruments and endoscopes, our surgeons perform surgeries with high precision and minimal complications. This results in less pain, reduced blood loss, faster recovery, and fewer scars. Consult the best spine surgeons in Mumbai at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, for advanced care with cutting-edge technology and expert care. 

Your spine is the pillar of your body, a central support structure that allows you to stand, move, and carry out your daily activities. Yet, spine health is often overlooked, even though it’s crucial for your overall well-being. The spine works tirelessly every day, and protecting it is essential for maintaining a high quality of life. Let us explore effective strategies to improve and preserve your spine’s health, ensuring you can enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle for years to come.

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Prioritize Restful Sleep for Spinal Health

Sleep is the time when your spine finally gets to rest after supporting your body throughout the day. A good night’s sleep is not just about quantity; the quality of your sleep environment is equally important. A supportive mattress and pillow are key to ensuring your spine can rest in a natural alignment.

• Choose the Right Mattress
  A firm or medium-firm mattress is ideal for spinal support. Unlike soft or old mattresses that may allow your spine to sag, a firmer mattress maintains your spine’s natural curve, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury.
• Optimize Your Sleep Position
  Your sleeping position can significantly impact your spine’s health. If you sleep on your back, placing a pillow under your knees can relieve stress on your lower back. Side sleepers should place a pillow between their knees to keep their hips balanced and maintain spinal alignment.

Strengthen Your Core for Better Spinal Support

Your core muscles, which include the muscles in your lower back and abdomen, play a crucial role in supporting your spine. A strong core reduces the pressure on your lower back and helps maintain proper posture, which is vital for spinal health.

• Engage in Core-Strengthening Exercises
  Unfortunately, many people do not use their core muscles effectively in daily activities, leading to weakness over time. Incorporating targeted exercises such as bridges, planks, and abdominal crunchescan help strengthen these muscles.

Choose Footwear that supports your Spine

The shoes you wear have a significant impact on your spine, as they provide the foundation for your entire body. Whether you’re walking, running, or standing, wearing shoes that offer adequate support can help prevent spinal issues and alleviate existing back pain.

• Invest in Supportive Shoes
  Shoes that provide good arch support and cushioning can reduce the strain on your spine. If you have flat feet, consider shoes with additional arch support to help distribute your body weight evenly and reduce stress on your lower back. Orthotic inserts can also be a valuable investment for better spinal alignment.

Use Correct Lifting Techniques

Proper lifting techniques are essential in preventing spinal cord injuries and maintaining overall spinal health. When lifting heavy objects, always bend at your knees and hips, not your waist, to avoid putting undue stress on your back. Keep the object close to your body, and use your leg muscles, not your back, to lift. Avoid twisting your body while lifting, and if the object is too heavy, seek assistance.

Practice Good Ergonomics and Limit Sitting Time

Sitting for prolonged periods can place a significant amount of stress on the lower back, particularly on the lumbar discs. For those who work in office settings or spend long hours at a desk, this can lead to or exacerbate back problems.

• Adopt Proper Ergonomics
  To protect your spine while sitting, ensure that your chair provides adequate support to your lower back. Consider using a lumbar roll or a small cushion to maintain the natural curve of your spine. Adjust your chair height so that your feet rest flat on the floor, and your knees are level with your hips. Additionally, position your computer screen at eye level to avoid straining your neck.
• Break Up Prolonged Sitting
  It’s important to take regular breaks to stand up, stretch, and move around. Even a few minutes of walking or stretching every hour can help reduce the stress on your spine and prevent stiffness.

Protecting your spine is essential for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Remember, your spine is the foundation of your body-taking care of it will pay off in the long run, ensuring you can continue to enjoy a life free from pain and discomfort.

Spine Care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Our Centre for Neurosciences at Kokilaben Hospital, Mumbai offers unparalleled expertise in spinal care, combining cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re dealing with complex spinal disorders or seeking preventive care, our multidisciplinary team of neurologists, neurosurgeons, and spine specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive techniques to ensure the best outcomes. Trust us to help you regain mobility, alleviate pain, and enhance your quality of life with world-class spinal care in a supportive environment. Please find below link for website details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_neurosciences.html