If you are experiencing severe pains in the lower back, Philadelphia area patients will tell you that Rothman Orthopaedic Institute is the best place to go. The specialists at Rothman are highly trained in all spinal conditions and can recommend the best possible treatment for your particular case. For many, lower back issues stem from bulging or slipped discs in the lumbar region of the spinal column. While there is no surgery to solve the problem of lower back pain in and of itself, the reality is that lower back pain is usually a symptom of a root cause that can often be addressed through either surgical or non-surgical treatment. While many patients are told they need spinal fusion surgery, there is another procedure that may prove more beneficial for those who suffer from lower back pain caused by damage to discs.
Disc Replacement Surgery
Rather than joining vertebrae together (as in traditional spinal fusion), which does solve the problem but results in less flexibility and range of motion for the patient, surgeons are now able to actually replace vertebrae in the back. This process is very similar to any other kind of joint replacement procedure. For example, if a knee or hip is to be replaced, a surgeon will go in, clean out the damaged parts and incorporate the prosthesis that can serve the same function as the original piece.
Lumbar disc replacement surgery works in the same way and is now considered to be an alternative for most patients who are dealing with damaged discs and the resulting pains in the lower back Philadelphia locals experience. The implant is metal and medical-grade plastic and is designed to be able to move and function just like a natural vertebrae. Following the surgery and recovery, the patient will be able to enjoy pain relief and improved mobility.
There are several reasons why this procedure may not be ideal for you:
- If you’ve had spinal surgery already in the past
- If you suffer from joint disease
- If you are significantly overweight
- If you have a spinal deformity, such as scoliosis
Call and make an appointment to see a specialist at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute. Find out if you are a candidate for this procedure. Every patient is unique and lower back pain can be a symptoms of a wide variety of root causes. But the physicians at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute are able to work on a personal level to determine the best course for addressing the pains in the lower back Philadelphia patients often suffer from.
