Spinal Decompression

An Alternative to Back Surgery Is Waiting

Though back surgery may provide relief, studies reveal waiting may be best alternative.

Several studies show that although back surgery may be effective for those suffering from a slipped or misaligned disk, it may not be necessary. Around 1.5 million back surgeries are performed worldwide to relieve spinal nerve pressure that causes sciatica. This condition is extremely painful and can affect daily activities and overall quality of life for those afflicted. However, researchers say that 75% of these cases will improve over time without medical attention.

A study at the Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands involved 283 patients suffering from a back problem. Findings revealed that 95% of participants reported their condition improved within a year with or without surgery. A study at Dartmouth Medical School examined 303 patients suffering from spinal degeneration which causes a disc to slip forward. Of these people, 130 initially chose not to undergo surgery of which 75% had stuck to that decision after two years. However, of the people assigned to non-surgical care, half eventually had to have the operation because the problem was so severe.

In cases of extreme discomfort or movement problems, surgery may provide a solution. However, with currently available non-surgical alternatives to treating spinal problems, such as spinal decompression, it may not be worth undergoing the risks associated with surgery. Back surgery is so risky that in some states (such as Pennsylvania) the cost of malpractice insurance is prohibitive for doctors who perform this surgery. There are also other proven alternatives to relieve back pain and restore functionality, such as spinal manual adjustment (provided by chiropractors), acupuncture and massage. For many patients, waiting for the body to heal itself may be the best and safest alternative to going under the knife.

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