Why Spinal Fusion Surgery Might Be Your Answer for Osteoarthritis

Nearly 32.5 million people in the United States live with a degenerative joint disease known as osteoarthritis. This condition is characterized by the gradual erosion of the cartilage responsible for cushioning the joints. As this cartilage degrades, it can develop stiffness and significant pain, as well as impact mobility. Osteoarthritis is not limited to any specific joint, but the spine, shoulders, hips, and knees are the most commonly afflicted. Spinal instances of osteoarthritis can be incredibly limiting for the sufferer. One approach to treatment used at Delaware Valley Pain & Spine Institute is spinal fusion. 

Discover Spinal Fusion And How It May Help Your Spinal Pain

When osteoarthritis has impacted your spine, spinal fusion surgery can help restore your mobility and reduce pain. This surgery is the most effective when the underlying cause of damage is excessive movement in the spinal column. During the procedure, two or more vertebrae will be surgically fused together to add stability to the spine while preventing them from moving. The result is preventing unwanted mobility in the joint and reducing pain associated with twisting, bending, or lifting. Deciding to undergo spinal fusion surgery shouldn’t be lightly made. 

The following list includes some instances when it is often suitable as a treatment option:

• Severe Joint Damage: Spinal fusion surgery is viable when other treatment approaches are ineffective for managing severe joint damage. 
• Spinal Instability: If your spinal column struggles with bearing the weight of your body, the result is often stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. Spinal fusion surgery addresses this by stabilizing the spine and improving function, easing these symptoms.
• Spinal Deformity: When a spinal deformity is responsible for damage to the spinal joints, the vertebrae may move out of place. Spinal fusion surgery to rectify the deformity can help stabilize your spine and prevent future misalignment.
• Ineffective Conservative Treatments: Spinal fusion surgery may be the next logical step when multiple conservative treatments have been attempted without success. Some examples of conservative treatments include heat and cold therapy, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, etc.

Before you go through spinal fusion surgery, you must be sure you’re committed to a successful recovery. The recovery process from this procedure can be long and will typically require rehabilitation and physical therapy. You’ll need significant help with daily activities, especially in the earliest days. These facts need to be considered before taking the step to get spinal fusion surgery. You will only fully and successfully recover by adhering to your post-surgery instructions and keeping up with physical therapy.

Contact Us To Learn If Spinal Fusion Surgery Is Right For You

Contact our offices today if you’re considering spinal fusion surgery to address your osteoarthritis concerns. You can schedule a consultation at (510) 818-7200 or stop by our Menlo Park, CA offices to speak with our staff. When all other avenues have proven unsuccessfully, spinal fusion surgery may be the step that restores your quality of life and brings relief from your spinal pain.