SPINE can be affected by multitude of pathologies including tumors, trauma, infections, congenital and degenerative disorders. Neck & low back pain (LBP) are the leading causes of disability, afflicting nearly 10% of world’s population. Approx. 80-85% people will experience LBP at some point in their lives with a peak at 45–50 years and women experiencing LBP more frequently than men. The usual causes are musculoskeletal but the more sinister culprits should not be missed.

BACK PAIN

BACK PAIN: WHEN NOT TO DELAY CONSULT

When there’s tingling/numbness/weakness in arms/legs
When it is due to accident/trauma
When pain is severe at night
When associated with fever
When there is problem with urination
When it persists beyond 6 weeks

MYTHS

Spine diseases are incurable, surgery is risky, patients get paralyzed.
Results are horrible, recovery is slow/painful, with prolonged bed rest, life becomes restricted.
Problem recurs, one surgery begets another, most need implants.
Consult spine surgeon as last recourse…..myths galore.

FACTS

MIS Spine surgery is safe & effective with excellent outcomes in well selected patients with short hospital stay, faster recovery and early return to normal life, often no implant/bed rest is needed. Notably, 9/10 patients do not need surgery & initial treatment is with non invasive options (medications, physical therapy, pain-blocking injections, bracing etc.) with surgery as last resort, if it is not an emergency. 90% improve within 12 weeks. Minimally Invasive/Access Spine Surgery (MISS) - A GAME CHANGER : Why open the doors when we can sneak in through the windows! Aiming the target and preserving the path! MISS is the perfect foil for a neurosurgeon working deftly in narrow corridors & with precision, close to spinal cord and nerves.

WAYS TO KEEP SPINE HEALTHY

Proper neck/back posture
Core muscles exercises
Stretching & strengthening back muscles
Practice work place ergonomics
Diet rich in Calcium & anti-oxidants
Smoking cessation
Maintaining healthy weight