You have noticed that every time you bend over, that it is getting more difficult to straighten up. You have also noticed that you are breathing harder and it is taking more energy and time with your movements. Having a healthy, strong spinal cord is essential to your every day living and the chores that you do daily. You know that your father had difficulty with his spinal discs and wonder if you are experiencing the same problem. Should you exercise more, get a back massage or are you to the point where you require spinal disc replacement surgery?
What Is Disc Replacement Surgery?
Disc Replacement Surgery is done by a board certified neurologist to replace damaged discs in your spinal cord, in the neck and/or back area. Speak with your neurologist to understand your spinal cord disc disease and get a personalized plan. Being comfortable about the surgery will take away the stressors that will lead to a healthy recovery following surgery.
The Five Signs That Will Determine If I Need Disc Replacement Surgery?
The five signs ae that you may experience constant neck pain, headaches, chronic back pain, weakness of arms, shoulder, legs and hands, numbness in your arms and pain that seems to travel down your arms. If the pain persists in your body, see your neurologist to determine if your spinal discs are damaged and need to be replaced. You will need to see a doctor as soon s possible to schedule a surgical consultation. Once your doctor has performed the necessary tests, he can tell you what is needed moving forward.
Is Disc Replacement Surgery Painful?
The surgery will usually subside the pain, but not necessarily alleviate it completely. It should allow your movement to be easier, by removing damaged cervical disks and replacing them with artificial discs. Speak with your physician about instructions on what needs to be done following your disk replacement surgery. By staying on track with your individualized treatment plan, you should be able to get back to leading a better quality of life in very little time. However, this will depend upon how severe the cracked cervical discs and quantity. More damaged discs require more surgery and may have a longer time for recovery.
Remember to pay attention to your body and how you feel before, during and after movement. Are you experiencing chronic pain in your neck, back, arms, shoulders and/or legs area? Has the pain been constant and does not seem to be going away? These are questions that you will need to know when visiting your doctor about disc replacement surgery.