Does Back Pain Need Surgery?

Almost everyone in their life has suffered some form of backache.  Backaches or injuries to your spine can be caused by aging, improper body mechanics and/or trauma such as an automobile accident or a fall.  These injuries will put pressure on your spinal nerves which will cause pain as well as other symptoms.

There are several treatment options available to address back aches.  Traditional remedies are anti-inflammatory medication(aspirin or ibuprofen), ice or heat therapy, massage, and physical therapy.  When these treatments don’t work a doctor may recommend back surgery.  The drawback to back surgery is that it may not help with all back pain which is why it is seldom offered.

Back surgery is usually offered when there is an indication when a nerve is pinched, when the spinal cord is compressed or there is too much movement between the spinal bones.  If there is pain the radiates down your legs or arms; have tingling or weakness in your arms or legs, or if you suffer loss of control in your bladder or bowel these are all indications of nerve damage. A direct injury to the spine can result in nerve damage by causing a bone fracture along the spine.

By exercising and keeping your back muscles in shape you may be able to prevent recurrent back problems.  Controlling your weight and using good body mechanics is also helpful.  For more information on Louisville, Kentucky lawyer, Mike Schafer go to www.mikeschaferlaw.com.