Orthopedic Back & Spine Surgeons in South Bend, IN

What Is Orthopedic Spine Surgery?

With traditional spine surgery, surgeons open an incision along the backbone. This allows the surgeons to move muscle and soft tissue aside and gain access to the bones of the spine and spinal cord. With minimally invasive spinal surgery, a much smaller incision is required. Surgeons insert a tube into this incision, and small tools are used through this tube to work on the spine. This allows for a shorter recovery time and less risk of complications. Our board-certified spine specialists in the South Bend area are here to help you navigate your spinal surgery options.

What Are Common Causes of Back Pain?

Many common spine conditions can cause pain. Many patients suffering from back and spine problems can avoid surgery and find practical pain relief thanks to recent advances in nonsurgical treatments and therapies. The orthopedic specialists at OSMC will try these treatments before surgery when possible. Some of the many common spine conditions that can cause discomfort include:

• Degenerative disc disease
• Herniated Disc
• Spinal cord injuries
• Sciatica
• Scoliosis
• Spinal deformities, including scoliosis
• Spinal fractures
• Spinal infections
• Spinal osteoarthritis (spondylosis)
• Spinal stenosis
• Tumors of the spine
• Whiplash

Who Needs Spine Surgery?

Thanks to recent advances in nonsurgical treatments and therapies, many patients suffering from back and spine problems can avoid surgery and find effective pain relief. Orthopedic specialists are trained in conservative therapies and pain management for these patients. If you’re suffering from intense back pain that hasn’t responded to more conservative treatment, surgery may be required.

How Should You Prepare for Spine Surgery?

As part of getting ready for spinal surgery, you should set up your home so that you can still do most of the things you need to do, even though you will have some limitations. You will also have to prepare your mind and body. Do the following to prepare for spine surgery:

• Get a toilet riser
• Stop smoking
• Slip-on shoes are a good idea.
• Meal prep
• Get an item grabber
• Light meditation should be done.
• Look over your pills and supplements.

During your appointment at our outpatient orthopedic surgery center, you will receive a complete list of instructions for preparing for spine surgery.

How Long Does Recovery from Spine Surgery Take?

How long it takes you to recover from back surgery depends on several variables, such as the conditions being treated, the type of procedure used to treat the problem, the length of the procedure, and how well you follow the instructions before and after the surgery.

For spinal problems that aren't too severe, expect four to six weeks of recovery time. If you have a more severe condition, like one that needs a spinal fusion, it will take you between one and six months to get better, depending on how old you are and your lifestyle. Occupational and physical therapy will help get you back on your feet as fast as possible.

Orthopedic Spine Clinic in South Bend, Indiana

Back and spine pain is too significant to ignore. A consultation with an orthopedic specialist is required to understand what is causing your pain and create a treatment plan. Schedule an appointment today or visit one of our orthopedic walk-in clinics for immediate treatment.