FAQ's

MRI is a highly sensitive imaging tool that effectively shows soft tissues, such as discs, spinal cords, and nerve roots. However, it doesn’t provide as much detail for bone structures, which are better visualized through X-rays or CT scans. Additionally, MRIs are performed while lying down, which is a more comfortable position, while X-rays can be taken in standing, bending, or other positions that reveal the biomechanical relationship of your spine. For a comprehensive diagnosis, your doctor may recommend additional X-rays or a CT scan alongside the MRI.

Back and neck pain is widespread, affecting up to 80% of people at some point in their lives. While it is the second most common cause of work absenteeism (after the flu), most cases are not serious and can resolve with rest, medication, and physiotherapy. If pain recurs often, it’s often linked to poor posture, sedentary habits, or nutritional imbalances. A healthy diet rich in vitamins, regular physical activity, and exercises to improve posture and strengthen your core muscles are key to preventing recurrence.

Non-surgical treatments for back pain focus on lifestyle changes, including maintaining proper posture, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular stretching and core-strengthening exercises. These strategies help alleviate pain and improve overall spine health without the need for invasive procedures.

Spine surgery has advanced significantly due to improvements in technology, surgical techniques, and high-powered microscopes, making it a safe option when necessary. Surgeons recommend surgery only when the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Like all procedures, surgery carries risks, but these are well understood and explained by your surgeon beforehand.

Spine surgery is designed to improve mobility and independence. In most cases, patients are encouraged to walk the same or next day after surgery, as long as there is no weakness in the limbs. The goal is for patients to be able to perform daily activities on their own before discharge. Most individuals can resume their normal activities relatively soon after surgery, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Spine surgery implants, typically made from materials like titanium or PEEK (Polyetheretherketone), are strong, bio-compatible, and safe. These implants generally do not need to be removed after surgery. However, they may trigger metal detectors at airports, so it’s a good idea to carry a doctor’s certificate or an X-ray for travel.

The length of your hospital stay depends on the type of surgery performed. For major procedures, expect a stay of 5-8 days. Minor surgeries may require a stay of 3-5 days, while outpatient procedures such as root blocks or epidural injections may only require a single day—admitted in the morning and discharged by evening.

Follow your surgeon’s specific advice regarding post-surgery care. In general, avoid forward bending or twisting movements and refrain from lifting heavy weights until your doctor approves. Precautions vary for each patient, but common recommendations include avoiding soft sofas, using a commode toilet instead of squatting, and taking care with daily activities to avoid strain on your spine.

It’s essential to have regular follow-up appointments, even if you’re feeling better. This allows your doctor to monitor your recovery and ensure that your spine is healing properly. Typically, the first follow-up occurs about 10-14 days after surgery.

The timeline for returning to work depends on your specific job and the type of surgery you had. For individuals with desk jobs, such as office work, a minimally invasive procedure like a discectomy may allow you to return to part-time work in 1-2 weeks. More extensive surgeries, such as spinal fusion, may require 4-6 weeks. Minimally invasive surgeries generally allow for a quicker return to work compared to traditional open surgeries, but the final decision will be tailored to your individual needs.

Recovery times can vary significantly depending on the type of surgery and individual healing factors. Some patients return to their usual activities within 6 weeks, while others may need more time. To ensure a smooth recovery, physical therapy is strongly encouraged to help ease you back into your regular routine and maintain long-term spine health.

Physiotherapy is typically necessary for 1-2 weeks following surgery. After that, you can continue your exercises at home. Long-term, it’s beneficial to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, ideally exercising at least five days a week to maintain strength and prevent future issues.