Benefits of Disc Replacement Surgery

Disc replacement surgery removes a damaged or diseased spinal disc and replaces it with an artificial disc. This is often recommended for people experiencing chronic back or neck pain that has not improved with non-surgical treatments. The procedure addresses issues arising from disc degeneration or herniation, which can impact everyday activities and quality of life. Here are some benefits of disc replacement surgery:

Improves Mobility

Improvement in spinal mobility is a key goal of disc replacement surgery, especially when compared to spinal fusion. Spinal fusion restricts movement by permanently joining two or more vertebrae, but disc replacement aims to maintain the spine’s natural flexibility. Some people can resume activities like yoga or swimming that had become too difficult due to previous back pain.

Preserving range of motion also benefits daily tasks. Bending over to tie your shoes, picking up groceries, or looking behind often becomes more manageable. The artificial disc mimics the function of a healthy disc, which is designed to absorb shock and facilitate a full range of movement. You will likely find it easier to participate in work and leisure activities without feeling restricted.

Reduces Risk of Complications

Disc replacement surgery can also reduce the risk of long-term complications. Spinal fusion may cause adjacent segment disease, where the discs above and below the fused segment experience increased stress. Over time, this pressure can accelerate wear and tear, leading to increased pain or physical limitations.

Disc replacement, by preserving more natural spinal movement, spreads stresses more evenly. This helps protect the nearby segments of your spine from strain. This may mean a lower chance of needing further surgeries in the future, as the adjoining discs are less likely to wear out quickly.

The procedure can also help reduce nerve compression and associated complications. When a damaged or degenerated disc puts pressure on nearby spinal nerves, it leads to symptoms such as pain, numbness, or tingling. By replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one, the procedure restores proper disc height and alignment, relieving pressure on these nerves. This improves immediate symptoms and reduces the risk of long-term nerve damage or chronic pain, helping patients regain mobility.

Relieves Back or Neck Pain

Living with chronic back or neck pain due to a damaged disc can disrupt your life. Pain can stem from a worn or herniated disc pressing on nerves, leading to discomfort, numbness, or weakness in your arms or legs. Disc replacement addresses the root cause by removing the problematic disc and decompressing spinal nerves. This leads to reduced pain levels following recovery, making it easier to sleep, concentrate, and complete responsibilities. Tasks that previously caused pain, such as standing or sitting for long periods or carrying groceries, often become less challenging.

Schedule Disc Replacement Surgery

If you experience long-lasting back or neck pain that limits your activities, disc replacement may be a supportive next step. A spine specialist will review your symptoms, medical history, and imaging results to help determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. Contact a neurosurgeon today to schedule a consultation and begin developing a customized treatment plan.