If you experience intense back or neck pain due to a damaged disc, it might be time for surgery. Also known as total disc replacement, this procedure helps relieve the soreness and increases mobility. Here are more details about disc replacement surgery:
Candidates for Disc Replacement
If you have herniated discs or degenerative disc disease, you should be eligible for disc replacement surgery, which can offer relief. Patients with constant neck or back pain and radiating sensations in the arms or legs might require this procedure to reduce the discomfort. To support the artificial disc once it’s placed, patients should have strong and healthy bones. Before your treatment, a healthcare provider assesses your general health. They will determine if there are conditions like diabetes and heart disease that could impact healing. To improve surgical outcomes, a medical professional may advise you to lose weight and eat nutritious foods with vitamins and minerals that support bone health.
The Procedure
During total disc replacement, a patient is placed under general anesthesia to manage any form of discomfort. A qualified surgeon makes incisions in the front of the neck or the abdomen to access the spine. Using specialized tools, this healthcare provider removes the damaged disc, bone spurs, or disc fragments that are pressing the nerves. After removing the degenerated disc, the surgeon inserts an artificial one and closes the incision with sutures and glue. A medical professional monitors how you are recovering after the procedure, and if you’re stable, you are transferred to a hospital room.
Benefits
By removing the damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial one, the procedure lessens the pressure on the nerves and spine. An artificial disc mimics the function of a natural disc, allowing for normal bending, twisting, and flexion of the spine. Once you recover, you can easily participate in sports and other recreational activities due to the replacement’s flexibility. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a smaller incision compared to more invasive surgeries, which reduces muscle and tissue disruption. This technique allows you to heal within a reasonable time and resume your daily life.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
During the initial healing phase, a provider might suggest you avoid heavy lifting or bending, which could interfere with healing. Several weeks after surgery, you can visit your doctor to check on your recovery. Once a doctor clears you, you can begin physical therapy to strengthen core muscles and improve spinal flexibility. This therapy starts with simple movements to avoid straining the surgical site and progresses to more challenging exercises. During these sessions, you learn how to move and lift things correctly to avoid putting too much pressure on your spine. To monitor spinal health and address any emerging concerns, a medical professional may schedule further regular checkups.
Book an Appointment for Disc Replacement Surgery
By replacing damaged discs, your surgeon may prevent your condition from worsening and causing issues like arthritis. Before the procedure, this specialist checks your general health and uses imaging tests to know how severe the problem is. To learn more about disc replacement surgery, call a trusted clinic today to talk to a healthcare provider.