Is Spinal Stenosis Surgery Worth It? Risks vs. Benefits
Spinal stenosis can cause severe pain that makes it difficult for you to move around and live your life the way you want to. You may feel like you’re losing your independence, and that can be frightening. The good news is that there are many surgical and nonsurgical methods to address the condition and restore your quality of life. Is surgery right for you? Learn more about how it can address your symptoms and get the full picture of potential risks and benefits.
Understanding Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, increasing pressure on the spine and its nerves. These compressed nerves can cause many challenging symptoms, such as:
- Leg pain
- Back pain
- Lower body cramps
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Difficulty walking
There are many spinal stenosis treatment options, including physical therapy, cervical laminoplasty, lumbar microdecompression, and artificial disc replacement (ADR). The best option will depend on your body, medical history and your personal goals, all of which Dr. Melikian will take into account from the start.
The Risks
As with any surgical procedure, if you undergo surgical treatment for spinal stenosis, there are some risks. The procedure may not fully relieve your symptoms, requiring further treatment to manage your pain, and as you recover, you will have an increased risk of infections and blood clots. Because the surgery will require you to go under anesthesia, you may also face complications related to that, like an allergic reaction.
The benefits can outweigh the potential risks. That is why it is crucial you visit a respected, board-certified professional like Dr. Rojeh Melikian. If you are concerned or at higher risk for surgical complications, we also offer many nonsurgical options that may alleviate symptoms before pursuing surgery.
The Benefits
One of the greatest benefits of spinal stenosis surgery is that minimally invasive techniques allow for quicker recovery than traditional open surgery. These procedures have also been shown to be effective in providing:
- Pain relief: Reducing nerve compression can provide significant relief from discomfort and help prevent future numbness and weakness. For many patients, this means reclaiming the freedom to engage in activities they thought were lost forever.
- Improved mobility: Minimizing your pain should allow you to regain your mobility and so you can sit, stand and move around more easily.
- Minimal decline: If your spinal stenosis is the result of another degenerative condition, surgical intervention can slow down further decline.
Are You a Candidate for Spinal Stenosis Surgery?
There are many treatment options for spinal stenosis, but surgery is usually recommended for patients who:
- Have not found relief from nonsurgical treatments
- Experience significant mobility issues caused by their diagnosis
- Have another neurological or degenerative condition that contributes to spinal stenosis
- Experience a sudden increase in their symptoms
Book a Consultation With a Specialist Today
At Rojeh Melikian, M.D., we prioritize an individualized approach to spine care. Dr. Melikian and our team work with you to determine a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle. If you have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis or believe you may have it, call us at 949-269-6879 or schedule a consultation today. Our goal is always to help you ease pain and regain mobility through our minimally invasive, award-winning solutions.
