Tag: BackSurgeryFacts

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