Frequently Asked Questions

Generally 95% of the patients visiting to Atlas Spine Clinic doesn't need surgery. Only when all other options are exhausted or patients presenting with advanced disease process/neurological involvement etc might need surgery.

No.
Postural control, Properly done regular exercises, Work-Life balance, Balanced diet (adequate intake of Proteins, Calcium and vitamins), Working within the limits of one's physical ability and medicines when needed helps patients to get better.

If you have frequent back/neck pain episodes, tingling-numbness in upper or lower limbs, imbalance, giddiness, leg pain worsening on walking.
Or if you are diagnosed with Sciatica, Nerve compression, Spinal fracture, Infection/TB in Spine etc

Surgery is suggested when all other options are exhausted, so delay in surgery might cause worsening of present clinical condition, deterioration of neurological status, loss of power in upper or lower limbs, loss of bladder/bowel control.
You should discuss in detail with your Spine Specialist before taking any final calls.

Spine surgery has been a highly evolved field in Medical Sciences when we compare even with just few years back.
Today's Spine Surgeries are SAFE and with Predictable outcomes.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery ( surgery with less blood loss, less tissue trauma, early Mobilization of patients)
Day Care Spine Surgery ( No need for admission)
Surgeries under regional or Local Anaesthesia,
Key hole/ Endoscopic spine surgery
Deformity correction surgeries (with better outcomes)
Spinal fixation with advanced systems of screws and rods
Spinal tumor surgeries
Surgery for Fracture spine , Infections in Spine etc.

No
Most of the patients can walk on same day or next day after surgery.

If you have an office job/ household work (no heavy activities) you can resume work in a week's time.

For heavy laborers, farmers, drivers, people who play contact sports need 2-3 months rehabilitation before resuming their job.

Spine surgery is done at a problematic area to solve the issue. Chances of getting spine problems after surgery are same as any person in your family who has not undergone surgery.

No it's a myth.

There are chances of worsening of neurology after surgery in certain situations which Surgeon explains before doing surgery with all pros and cons.

With present day Spine surgery where we have advanced diagnostic modalities, better Intra op and postop monitoring, Minimally invasive surgical techniques outcomes are much better and predictable.

Spine problems can present with various symptoms, depending on the affected area. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent back or neck pain
• Stiffness and reduced mobility
• Pain that radiates to the arms or legs (sciatica)
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs
• Difficulty standing, walking, or maintaining posture
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (a serious sign requiring urgent medical attention)

You should consult a spine surgeon if you experience:

• Severe or persistent back or neck pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Pain that does not improve with rest or conservative treatments
• Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your arms or legs
• Difficulty walking or balancing
• Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control
• Spinal deformities, such as scoliosis or kyphosis

Spine surgery is considered when:

• Conservative treatments fail to provide relief
• There is significant nerve compression causing weakness or numbness
• You have spinal instability or deformity
• There is a herniated disc or spinal stenosis causing severe pain
• You experience a loss of bladder or bowel control (indicating an emergency)
  
  A spine surgeon will assess your condition using imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, or CT scans) and clinical evaluation before recommending surgery.

Recovery time depends on the type of surgery and individual health factors. General recovery times include:

• Minimally invasive spine surgery – 2 to 6 weeks
• Discectomy or laminectomy – 4 to 8 weeks
• Spinal fusion surgery – 3 to 6 months for initial healing, up to a year for full recovery

Physical therapy, following post-surgical instructions, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help speed up recovery.

Yes, you absolutely can and should get a second opinion before deciding on spine surgery. Seeking another expert’s perspective can help you:

• Confirm the diagnosis and ensure that surgery is necessary
• Explore alternative treatment options that might be available
• Understand the risks and benefits of different surgical procedures
• Gain confidence in your decision before proceeding

Many specialists encourage second opinions to ensure the best possible care for their patients.