A 54-year-old gentleman came to me with severe leg pain and numbness that had been worsening for months. He had a slipped disc and spinal stenosis—but instead of seeing a specialist, he believed a common myth: “Spine surgery causes paralysis.”
He delayed surgery, tried everything else—from massages to home remedies—and by the time he returned, it was too late. The nerve damage had progressed.
We performed the surgery to relieve pain and to help him sit, but he never regained full limb movement. He lost strength in both legs, could not walk normally again, and required bowel and bladder care for the rest of his life.
Hello and welcome! I’m Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon. Today, let’s clear the air around one of the most misunderstood medical topics—spine surgery.
Many people suffer silently with back or neck pain because of fear—fear that spine surgery will leave them worse off. But the truth is: modern spine surgery is safer, faster, and more effective than ever before.
Learn more : Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: What You Need to Know
Top 5 Spine Surgery Myths—Debunked with Facts and Hope
1. Myth: Spine surgery always leads to paralysis
This is the biggest and most harmful myth. The fear of paralysis stops many patients from getting the help they actually need. But here’s the truth: spine surgery today is incredibly advanced.
With tools like high-resolution MRI, intraoperative navigation, and microscopic surgery, experienced neurosurgeons can perform procedures with millimeter precision.
In reality, the risk of paralysis is extremely low, especially in elective surgeries like discectomy, TLIF, or ACDF. Many patients regain lost movement and prevent future nerve damage thanks to timely surgery.
So, spine surgery doesn’t paralyze people—it actually protects their nerves from further injury.
2. Myth: You should avoid spine surgery at all costs
Many people try to manage back or neck pain with medications, physiotherapy, or injections—and rightly so; that’s the first step. But sometimes, non-surgical treatments don’t work.
In cases of severe disc prolapse, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis, delaying surgery can lead to permanent nerve damage—including foot drop, bladder dysfunction, or chronic weakness.
Spine surgery isn’t something to be feared—it’s something to be done wisely, when needed. It’s not the last resort—it’s the right tool for the right patient, at the right time.
3. Myth: After spine surgery, you can never walk normally again
This is a misconception. In fact, most of my patients walk the same day or the next day after minimally invasive or even conventional spine surgeries.
Take microdiscectomy or TLIF procedures—we use microscopes, small incisions, and gentle handling of the nerves. As soon as the pressure on the nerve is released, the patient often says, “Doctor, the leg pain is gone!”
With proper post-op care and physiotherapy, walking improves, posture improves, and mobility is restored. So, spine surgery helps you walk better, not worse.
4. Myth: All spine surgeries are done with large cuts and long hospital stays
That may have been true 20 years ago—but not today.
Today, we use minimally invasive techniques, microscopes, drills, and advanced C-arm machines for many spine surgeries.
This means:
• Small incisions
• Microscopic or endoscopic access
• Minimal muscle damage
• Faster recovery
Patients often stay in the hospital for just 1 or 2 days, and many return to desk jobs in 2–3 weeks.
So, spine surgery doesn’t mean big scars or bedrest for months—it’s often quicker than people think.
5. Myth: Once you have spine surgery, you’ll always need more surgeries
Many people say, “If I get one spine surgery, I’ll end up with 3 more later.” That’s a myth—and a fear-based assumption.
The truth? If the underlying problem is diagnosed correctly, properly identified and treated, and if the patient follows good posture, physiotherapy, and avoids strain—one surgery is often enough.
In fact, I’ve seen patients do extremely well for 10–15 years post-surgery without needing anything more.
Yes, there are rare cases of recurrence, but that depends on patient lifestyle, body mechanics, and problems at other spinal levels. So, spine surgery doesn’t mean a lifetime of operations.
Read More : Top10 Essential Tips for a Healthy Spine
About Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah
Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah is a Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon with extensive experience in advanced brain and spine surgeries. He specializes in minimally invasive procedures and is dedicated to providing patients with the best possible outcomes.
Stay updated with the latest insights on spine health, treatment options, and expert advice from Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah.
Final Thoughts
Back pain, neck pain, disc problems, or nerve compression don’t mean you have to suffer forever. Spine surgery, when done at the right time, by the right hands, is safe and life-changing.
Don’t let myths keep you in pain.
Consult a neurosurgeon or qualified spine surgeon in Jayanagar or Electronic City, get your MRI reviewed, and understand your options.
Book a Consultation
Ready to take the next step towards a pain-free life?
📍 For appointments in Electronic City:
Call: 74115 71002
📍 For appointments in Jayanagar:
Call: 72596 69911
FAQs:
1. Is spine surgery always risky and leads to paralysis?
No, modern spine surgery is highly advanced with minimal risks. Techniques like minimally invasive surgery have significantly reduced complications, making procedures safer than ever.
2. Will I need multiple surgeries after the first spine operation?
Not necessarily. If the underlying issue is correctly diagnosed and treated, and post-operative care is followed diligently, many patients do not require additional surgeries.
3. Does spine surgery require a long hospital stay and recovery period?
With advancements in surgical techniques, many spine surgeries are now minimally invasive, leading to shorter hospital stays—often just 1-2 days—and quicker recovery times.
4. Is spine surgery only for older adults?
No, spine surgery is determined by the specific spinal condition, not age. Younger patients with certain spinal issues may also benefit from surgical intervention.
5. Can I resume normal activities after spine surgery?
Yes, most patients return to their regular activities post-surgery. Physical therapy and adherence to medical advice play a crucial role in a successful recovery.
