"Never underestimate the ability of spine surgery to make your back pain worse. . ."

Yes, I stole that from another PT.   But it rings so true.   The great therapists at Evidence in Motion continue to help get the word out to Physical Therapists and the public that back pain is best treated by. . . . . (I know your going to be surprised)  A PHYSICAL THERAPIST.  A recent post talks about the increasing rates of spinal fusion for management of low back pain.

I have also frequently commented on this blog (see here and here) about the outrageous nature of spine surgery, particularly lumbar fusion in managing low back pain.  Typically I use data to make my point.  Unfortunately I believe we have become immune to big numbers and what those number mean in terms of human suffering.  The numbers do not convey the darnage that is happening to real people day in and day out. 

There is mounting evidence that having surgery for back pain leads to poor outcomes.  This is not meant to bash spine surgeons.   This is meant to inform that there are other options to having surgery, especially fusion, for your back pain.   Back pain is multi faceted.   Back pain does not just 'go away' with fusion.   There was a reason you had pain prior to surgery, and without making changes to your lifestyle, chances are your back pain will be unchanged.  Lifestyle choices, like so many other health problems can be a big factor in back pain.  (Smoking, overweight, no exercise)  But, how can I exercise or lose weight if I have all this back pain.   Well, that is the reason you need to seek out the help of your physical therapist.   I really can't help you quit smoking, but can help point you in the right direction.  Assessment of your flexibility, strength, movement patterns, and making changes to improve the areas that are deficient  are waht PT's do on a daily basis.  I have typically found most of my patients have weakness that affects their ability to support the spine.  They have poor flexiblity that creates poor movement patterns.  By improving the flexilbity and stability of the spine, force can be spread throughout the body, and decrease pain.   Its  is really wonderful hearing from patients how much better their back pain is with the start of exercise and strength program. 

Are you ready to start working on your back pain?   It probably won't get better overnight.   I do not have a magic wand.   I do have the tools to help you manage your pain and help provide long term relief.  Get started, see a physical therapist for you back pain.