Low back and neck pain isn’t something one should take lightly, especially not when they interfere with carrying out normal daily activities. One of the reasons why you may be experiencing them is the compression of the nerves in your spine. Such a condition requires a surgical procedure known as a laminectomy to treat the condition.
A laminectomy is a spinal surgery that is performed to alleviate undue pressure on the spine caused by bony growths, tumors, or other possible conditions that narrow the spinal canal. It involves the surgical removal of a part of the vertebra called the lamina.
Laminectomy surgery presents several immediate and long-term benefits for patients who suffer from the compression of spinal nerves. We’ve compiled them in this piece.
Increased Mobility
The consistent pressure exerted on the spinal nerves tends to produce localized or radiating pain in the low back region and the neck. The high levels of pain tend to restrict movement and the normal range of mobility. Even regular daily activities such as walking, running, lifting, and similar activities tend to be uncomfortable. The laminectomy procedure alleviates the irritation experienced by the spinal nerves and hence reduces pain levels experienced during movement.
Reduced Radiating Nerve Symptoms
It is often difficult to concentrate on carrying out tasks or getting around when experiencing consistent radiating nerve pain. A laminectomy procedure is effective in providing relief from some of the common symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy, such as:
- Prickling sensations (paresthesia), or “pins and needles”
- Tingling and numbness that extends to the hips, buttocks, and/or thighs
- Pain or tingling sensations experienced in the legs (one leg is typically affected more)
Significantly Reduced Back Pain
A laminectomy results in immediate reduction in back pain for many patients. However, for some, physical therapy is often needed during the recovery process to noticeably alleviate discomfort. If the main source of your back pain is nerve compression, it is likely that you will experience a considerable decrease in spine-related pain after your recovery process is complete.
Improved Quality of Life
Consistent low back and neck pain can significantly impact the way you experience life. If no other non-surgical treatments have been effective in treating your condition, a laminectomy may be the best option to provide relief and lead to a better quality of life. You will be able to fully resume all work-related tasks and duties, participate in outdoor activities and sports, and interact more readily with friends and family members.
If you’re experiencing consistent neck and back pain clinic Houston, schedule an appointment with one of the country’s leading team of neurosurgeons. Dr. Alexander West is a resident doctor in our neck and spine center in Houston and specializes in cutting-edge surgical treatments, including neurosurgery, spine surgery, back-disc surgery, and non-invasive and minimally-invasive procedures.
You don’t have to live with back and neck pain. Call us today at 832-522-8500 to schedule an appointment.