Specific Reasons For Spinal Surgery

 There are many anatomical reasons for having spine surgery.  Two of those reason could possibly be to correct a spinal deformity caused by scoliosis or to relieve pressure on a nerve caused by adjacent structures.

Scoliosis is an abnormal side-to-side curve of the spine. Most scoliosis begins to develop just before puberty and records show that it affects girls more than boys.  In the beginning stages of scoliosis, there is no pain.  When your child reaches around the age of eight years old, you should begin taking notice of whether or not one of their shoulders or hips is higher than the other, your child may lean or favor one side more than the other or the waist looks uneven.  The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons believes that if any one of these signs occurs in your child, a consultation should be performed.  Most elementary schools do scoliosis screenings which is helpful in alerting parents if a screener becomes concerned.  Treatments for scoliosis vary.  In some cases, the scoliosis is minor and is just kept watch by a physician periodically to see if the symptoms have worsened.  Other times, a brace may be needed to prevent the curve of the spine from progressing.  Children who wear braces are still able to enjoy a happy and active lifestyle.  Occasionally, spine surgery can be the best options for more severe curves in the spine.  Depending on the site and degree of the spinal curvature, your surgeon will try and fuse the vertebrae into a more normal position. 

Radiculopathy is a condition in which one or more nerve roots are irritated. Radiculopathy is caused by a disk herniation or bone spurs caused by degenerative discs.  Signs of Radiculopathy are pain, numbness, tingling or weakness up and down the leg which is caused by nerve root irritation.  A complete examination from your physician will be required for a proper diagnosis.  Treatment for back and neck pain ranges from "conservative care," (easy home remedies like ice packs and exercises) to very invasive measures such as spine surgery.  Taking over the counter anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen will help keep your joins and muscles relaxed.  

 

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